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Recently we looked at the implications of having a hyperactive thyroid, and what can be done if your body is producing too much thyroid hormone. While having a hyperactive thyroid is an issue, when it comes to your body, there needs to be a balance.If your thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone this can also be an issue. Today we will look at what this means, and natural hypothyroidism treatments which you may want to consider if you have an underactive thyroid. What Is Hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not properly make or release thyroid hormones. The thyroid is responsible for many bodily functions, and a lack of thyroid hormones can cause noticeable health problems. Women and the elderly are at a higher risk for developing hypothyroidism. Symptoms of Hypothyroidism Because thyroid hormones affect so many areas of the body, symptoms of hypothyroidism are often mistaken for other ailments. Symptoms can include: • moodiness and depression • fatigue • slow metabolism • changes in the menstrual cycle • dry skin and hair • heightened sensitivity to cold • unexplained weight gain Causes Of Hypothyroidism There are a number of reasons why the thyroid might be underactive. Here are some of them. ● Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – this is an autoimmune endocrine disorder which causes the body to produce antibodies which destroy the thyroid gland. ● Radiation to the neck area - often prescribed for people who have an overactive thyroid, radiation can often lead to the opposite problem. ● Diet - A poor diet, lacking in iodine and selenium, can have an adverse effect on thyroid function. ● Poor gut health - this can lead to nutrient deficiencies as it can make it more difficult for the body to absorb nutrients. ● Pregnancy - sometimes during or after a pregnancy the body produces high levels of thyroid hormones, followed by a fast decline. ● Emotional stress - this can lead to increased cortisol levels which worsen symptoms of thyroid disease. Naturopathic Treatments for Hypothyroidism For people who are looking to reduce the use of mainstream pharmaceuticals in their life, there are a number of natural treatments and supplements which can be used to manage hypothyroidism.Of course, it’s not recommended that you discontinue any thyroid medication before first consulting with your prescribing doctor. Today we will take a look at some of the supplements and foods that can help, and also what to avoid if you are dealing with an underactive thyroid. 1. Eat Coconut Oil You’ve heard coconut oil can be great for your skin, and for your hair. Well, it’s also useful when you are experiencing hypothyroidism. It provides fatty acids which support metabolism, combat fatigue, and increase energy. This beneficial oil also helps to improve immunity and assist with endurance, mood, and brain function. 2. Eat Probiotic-Rich Foods Probiotics contribute to your gut health, and act to balance the microflora in your gut. Some examples of probiotic foods include kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. Taking care of your gut health reduces the chance of nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and leaky gut syndrome, which can lead to thyroid imbalance. 3. Avoid Goitrogenic Foods Goitrogens are substances which interfere with the production of the thyroid hormone. When thyroid hormone production is already low, it is important to avoid anything which would make this worse. Soy naturally contains compounds, called goitrogens, that inhibit thyroid function and even cause thyroid enlargement (goiter). Adequate iodine status seems to protect against this effect of soy. So, small amounts of soy may be tolerated by some with hypothyroidism, as long as iodine levels in the body are normal. As we talked about in this article on cruciferous vegetables, vegetables in this family such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale are not usually a concern with hypothyroidism and can provide many health benefits. 4. Supplement with Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is an adaptogen, which assists the body to keep hormone levels in balance and respond to stress. This helps to lower cortisol and balance thyroxine levels. It is important to note that Ashwagandha is in the nightshade family with tomato, potato, eggplant, pepper, and tobacco. Nightshade plants may aggravate hypothyroidism that has an autoimmune cause, like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Other adaptogen herbs include licorice root, ginseng, and holy basil. 5. Supplement with Iodine Iodine supplementation can have a significant impact on thyroid function, however it should be noted it should be used with caution for those with Hashimoto’s disease. Foods rich in iodine included fish, sea vegetables, raw dairy, and eggs. Before using iodine supplements in excess of 500 micrograms per day, be sure to consult with a qualified practitioner. 6. Supplement With Selenium Selenium is required for the body to produce thyroid hormones, and the thyroid has the highest selenium content of any organ in the body. A 2013 study by Drutel, Archambeaud, and Caron in the Oxford Journal Of Clinical Endocrinology found that selenium supplementation was beneficial for patients suffering from both Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Supplementing with selenium decreases anti-thyroid antibodies and improves the thyroid gland structure. 7. Supplement with Omega-3 Essential fatty acids, and Omega-3s in fish oil have been found to decrease symptoms such as anxiety and depression, high cholesterol, weakened immune system, and diabetes. Taking omega-3s can also help to balance omega-6 levels, which helps with sustaining health. Contact Nardini Naturopathic Are you worried you are showing symptoms which may be linked to hypothyroidism? Do you have a concern that you are not getting enough of the foods listed above in your diet, or you believe you may be experiencing hypothyroidism because other treatments for its symptoms aren’t working for you? Contact Nardini Naturopathic for today for a consult. We will discuss your symptoms and come up with a personalized treatment plan, based on your needs.