Naturopathic Solutions For Hyperthyroidism

It’s likely you’ve heard someone refer to the thyroid gland at some point in time.

Perhaps they mentioned needing to take medication for it, or made a reference towards issues it caused them.

Irritability, weight loss, and rapid heartbeat are all issues which can be linked to overproduction of the thyroid hormone, also called hyperthyroidism.

I’m Dr. Sheila, a Toronto naturopathic doctor, and I want to help you learn to recognize potential signs of hyperthyroidism, and tell you about some natural solutions to help manage these symptoms.

Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Hyperthyroidism?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck.

It produces thyroid hormones, which control how the body uses energy, and play a key role in the regulation of metabolism.

When the thyroid is overstimulated and secretes too many hormones, this can lead to a condition called hyperthyroidism.

This is the opposite of hypothyroidism, where your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones.

Symptoms Of Hyperthyroidism

High levels of thyroid hormone can lead to a hypermetabolic state.

Symptoms of the hypermetabolic state and hyperthyroidism include:

• Elevated and/or irregular heart rate
• Greater than usual appetite
• Goiter
• High blood pressure
• Hand tremors
• Excessive sweating
• Frequent bowel movements
• Unexplained weight loss
• Irregular or painful menstrual cycles
• Anxiousness
• Restlessness
• Brain fog
• Feeling weak
• Trouble sleeping
• Brittle hair and hair loss
• Itchiness
• Nausea

What Causes Hyperthyroidism?

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies stimulate the thyroid to secrete excess hormones.

Graves’ disease is thought to be hereditary as it tends to run in families.

Other potential causes of hyperthyroidism are:

• Tumours of the thyroid or pituitary gland
• Excessive amounts of iodine
• Inflammation of the thyroid
• Tumours of the testes or ovaries
• Excess thyroid hormones due to diet or supplementation

Potential Complications From Hyperthyroidism

If hyperthyroidism is left untreated, it can have severe effects many of which affect the heart, including:

• High blood pressure
• Cardiac arrest
• Abnormal heart beat, atrial fibrillation
• Thinning of the heart muscle
• Congestive heart failure

Additionally, loss of bone density caused by the loss of calcium and phosphate can lead to osteoporosis.

Naturopathic Solutions For Hyperthyroidism

There are a number of natural ways to manage hyperthyroidism.

If you wish to use any of these, it’s best to speak with your naturopathic doctor to determine which methods will best compliment any other treatment plans you may be on.

Continue reading to learn more about naturopathic solutions to help manage your hyperthyroidism.

1. Eat A Hyperthyroid Diet

Eating a diet low in iodine is one common way to help manage hyperthyroidism.

Foods to include in your diet include:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Lean protein
• Green juice
• Anti-inflammatory herbs such as rosemary, basil, and oregano
• Bone broth

In addition, foods to be avoided include:

• Egg yolks
• Iodized salt
• Large amounts of grains, including pasta and bread
• Seafood
• Dairy
• Large amounts of beef and poultry
• Soy products like tofu, soy beans, and soy milk

2. Supplement With Selenium

A 2015 study in European Thyroid Journal found evidence that selenium may be used to lower levels of thyroid hormones and provide treatment for hyperthyroidism symptoms.

Selenium can also be used as a treatment for thyroid eye disease which is associated with Graves’ disease.

Foods continuing selenium include:

• Nuts
• Fish
• Beef
• Grains

3. Supplement With L-Carnitine

A study in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences showed L-Carnitine can inhibit thyroid hormones from entering the cell, thus having the effect of reversing or minimizing hyperthyroid symptoms.

L-carnitine is an amino acid which is produced by the body, however it can also be found in fish, meat, and dairy products.

Further research needs to be done on the use of L-carnitine as a treatment for hyperthyroidism, however current studies are promising.

4. Supplement With Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a herb which is part of the mint family.

There is research which suggests it can be used to reduce levels of thyroid stimulating hormones, and is specifically used for individuals with Graves’ disease.

It can be taken as an extract, or made into a tea.

Book An Appointment With Dr. Sheila Dyer, ND

Are you experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism which you can’t explain?

Have you received a diagnoses of hyperthyroidism, or Graves’ disease, and want to explore natural options to help manage your symptoms?

I’m Dr. Sheila Dyer, ND, a naturopathic doctor in Toronto and I can help.

Contact me today to set up a consultation, or for more information about how naturopathic medicine can help you start to feel like yourself again.