The thyroid is a gland in the neck that produces hormones to regulate various basic body functions. Although this gland normally functions normally, sometimes the thyroid can become overactive or underactive, causing a variety of symptoms, such as an irregular heartbeat, anxiety, uncontrollable weight loss or gain, fatigue, sweating, and trouble sleeping.. Fortunately, doctors can treat thyroid problems using hormone therapy and medications (such as beta blockers) to correct an abnormally functioning thyroid. In general, there's not much you can do yourself to treat your thyroid so you should see a doctor if you think you have a thyroid problem. If you do have a thyroid problem, follow your doctor's instructions for the best treatment. In the meantime, you can still do some things in your daily life to support your treatment and keep you healthy and strong.
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Method 1 of 4: Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism means the thyroid is underactive and doesn't produce enough hormones to regulate body functions. The main symptoms are fatigue, weight gain, slowed heart rate, muscle aches, and constipation. There are several things that can make the thyroid underactive, and you should see a doctor for proper treatment. In addition, you can also do some natural steps at home.
Step 1. Take synthetic hormones to increase thyroid activity
The most commonly used conventional method of treating hypothyroidism is taking synthetic hormones (namely levothyroxine). This hormone will improve the effects of hypothyroidism and increase thyroid activity. If taken properly, this drug can effectively treat your condition.
- Your doctor may have to do several trials to determine the right dose of levothyroxine for you. Be prepared to have blood tests every few weeks to check the levels. Your doctor may adjust the dose for you (it can be increased or decreased), depending on the results.
- Some of the side effects of this drug that most often appear are increased appetite, palpitations, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), and body shaking.
Step 2. Increase your iodine intake if you have an iodine deficiency
In some cases, iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. Through a blood test, the doctor will find out whether you are deficient in iodine or not. Get 150 mcg of iodine per day from the food you eat to keep your thyroid functioning normally.
- Most people get the iodine they need from salt that contains iodine. You can also get iodine from seafood, seaweed, or dairy products.
- Avoid taking iodine supplements, unless recommended by your doctor. If you're not careful, you can overdo it, which can trigger other thyroid problems.
- Iodine deficiency is very rare. This generally only occurs in developing countries that do not consume foods that contain lots of iodine.
Step 3. Eliminate soy from the list of foods to support your treatment
Consuming soy products can prevent the body from absorbing hormone treatments, making them less effective. If you regularly consume soy products, get rid of them so you can maximize the performance of your hormone treatment.
If you only eat soy occasionally, ask your doctor if this is okay. Usually, soybeans only cause problems if consumed in large quantities
Step 4. Avoid eating raw cabbage so you can absorb as much iodine as possible
Although cabbage is a healthy food, it can prevent the body from absorbing iodine. This will be a problem if you have an iodine deficiency. So, you should avoid cabbage so that the body can absorb the iodine.
Other cruciferous vegetables (from the cabbage family), such as broccoli, kale, or cauliflower, can also cause problems. However, do not make major changes to the food you eat without consulting your doctor. Otherwise, you could suffer from a vitamin deficiency
Step 5. Try taking ashwaganda supplements to regulate the thyroid
A small study has found that ashwaganda supplements can improve thyroid function so it can be used to treat hypothyroidism. Try taking it as much as 500 mg a day for 2 months to see if this supplement can improve thyroid function.
- Each product may suggest a different dosage. So, make sure you follow the recommended dosage directions.
- Always consult your doctor before you take herbal supplements, especially if you are taking medication at this time.
Step 6. Find out if zinc supplements can improve thyroid conditions
Zinc can also improve thyroid function if you have hypothyroidism. Take 30 mg of zinc a day for 12 weeks to see if your condition improves.
Zinc overdose can cause constipation and other intestinal problems. So, follow the dosage instructions and talk to your doctor about whether zinc is safe for you
Method 2 of 4: Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism means the thyroid is overactive and producing too many hormones. This condition causes symptoms such as fast heart rate, unexpected weight loss, restlessness, sweating, and insomnia. As with hypothyroidism, you usually have to take medication to treat an overactive thyroid. So you have to go to the doctor to get the right treatment. Furthermore, you can try this treatment at home.
Step 1. Take prescription medications to decrease thyroid activity
No hyperthyroidism medication is the same for everyone. The medicine prescribed by the doctor will depend on the age, health, and condition of the patient. Medications that your doctor may prescribe include:
- Radioactive iodine to shrink the thyroid and make it less reactive.
- Antithyroid drugs such as Tapazole to prevent the thyroid from producing too much hormone.
- Beta-blockers to treat symptoms of hyperthyroidism. These drugs are generally not used to treat thyroid problems, but to reduce their effects.
Step 2. Reduce your iodine intake
Unlike hypothyroidism, excessive intake of iodine can lead to an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism. This can happen if you consume more than 900-1,100 mcg of iodine regularly every day, which makes the thyroid overreact. Don't eat foods high in iodine to help treat an overactive thyroid.
- Don't eat seafood, iodized salt, or seaweed. Also check the iodine content in other foods so you don't eat too much.
- Hyperthyroidism due to excessive consumption of iodine is very rare. Usually, hyperthyroidism is caused by a hormonal imbalance in the body.
Step 3. Consume raw cabbage to prevent the absorption of iodine
Cabbage can prevent the body from absorbing iodine, which can help treat hyperthyroidism. Add cabbage to the food you consume every day so that the body does not absorb excessive iodine.
Step 4. Increase your calcium intake if you have a deficiency
People with hyperthyroidism often suffer from a calcium deficiency, which can lead to brittle bones and osteoporosis. Increase your calcium intake with supplements or by eating more dairy products, leafy greens, or small fish like sardines.
In general, adults need 1,000 to 2,000 mg of calcium a day, which can be obtained from food or supplements
Step 5. Protect your eyes if you have Graves' disease
Almost all cases of hyperthyroidism are caused by Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder. Although treatable, this disease can attack the eyes. Take the necessary steps every day to keep your eyesight and eyes healthy.
Always lubricate your eyes with artificial tears or prescription eye drops
Method 3 of 4: A Healthy Diet for Thyroid
Although food has a great effect on the body's performance, thyroid problems can't be treated simply by changing your diet. However, following the right diet can keep you healthy and prevent thyroid problems from getting worse. In addition, food can also affect thyroid medication so you should avoid foods that can interfere with the performance of the drug. The right foods will support treatment and help make the thyroid normal again.
Step 1. Live a healthy and balanced diet
While there is no specific diet that can cure thyroid problems, a healthy diet in general can support the gland and promote overall health. Consume at least 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain products, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products every day. This will meet the nutritional needs so that you can regulate thyroid function properly.
- A balanced diet should include all the necessary vitamins and nutrients. Only use supplements if your doctor recommends them.
- Also avoid unhealthy foods, such as fried, processed, high sugar and fatty foods.
Step 2. Drink 6-8 glasses of water every day
Consuming plenty of fluids is part of a healthy diet. Make sure you drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day to stay hydrated.
- Everyone may need a different amount of water. So, this number is only a guideline. If you are thirsty or your urine turns dark yellow, you need to drink a lot of water.
- Avoid fizzy drinks or juices that contain lots of sugar and try to drink only water. To make it taste better, add fruit to the water you drink.
Step 3. Increase selenium intake
Selenium is an important nutrient that can prevent the thyroid from overacting or becoming underactive. The recommended amount is 55 mcg daily. This can be obtained through supplements or eating more foods rich in selenium.
Foods high in selenium include Brazil nuts, fish and shellfish, organ meats, eggs, poultry, and dairy products
Step 4. Allow 4 hours between taking medication and taking calcium
Calcium can also make the body unable to absorb drugs properly. If you are also taking medications to treat your thyroid, allow at least 4 hours between taking your medication and taking calcium. This includes foods high in calcium such as milk, or calcium supplements that you take.
Step 5. Avoid celery extract to use as a natural remedy
Celery is a natural ingredient that is often used for weight loss. However, several studies have shown that consuming celery extract in excess can trigger an allergic reaction in the thyroid and disrupt its function. If you suffer from thyroid problems and are taking celery extract, stop using it and see if it has any positive effects.
Method 4 of 4: Changing Your Lifestyle
Just like diet, thyroid problems can't be cured just by changing your lifestyle. However, lifestyle changes can support treatment and get you back to normal. Taken together, medication, proper diet, and lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on your recovery.
Step 1. Do exercise regularly to keep the body healthy
Some thyroid conditions can cause weight gain, which makes exercise a very important activity. It can also increase energy, which is especially useful for those suffering from hypothyroidism. The official recommended amount of exercise time is 150 minutes a week. So try to get some physical activity every day so you can reach the recommended amount of time.
- Aerobic exercise is especially useful if you have hypothyroidism. This is very useful so that you don't gain weight and keep your energy good.
- If you have Graves' disease, a condition that can lead to hyperthyroidism, do weight training to keep your bone density high.
Step 2. Reduce stress to control thyroid
Stress can affect the body in a number of ways, including making the thyroid either overactive or underactive. If you experience stress a lot, try doing a few things to relax yourself. It is very useful for overall health.
- Try doing relaxation exercises like meditation and deep breathing. In fact, just 15 to 20 minutes of exercise every day is enough to make you feel better.
- Another great way to get rid of stress is to make time for hobbies.
- Stress is also a major risk factor for Graves' disease, which can trigger an overactive thyroid.
Step 3. Drink alcohol in moderation
Drinking alcohol in excess can make the thyroid unable to work properly. Alcoholic beverages can also interact with thyroid medications you are taking. If you still want to drink, limit the amount to only 1-2 drinks a day so you don't overdo it.
If you suffer from liver or health problems caused by alcohol, the best course of action is to stop drinking altogether
Step 4. Quit smoking or never try (if you don't smoke)
Smoking can interfere with the thyroid and cause other health problems. It is best to quit smoking as soon as possible. If you don't smoke at this point, don't ever try smoking.
Secondhand smoke can also suffer from health problems. So, don't let anyone smoke in your house
Medical Facts
Thyroid problems are treatable, but you need proper medical care to treat them. The best option is medication and hormone treatment, which can usually bring thyroid function back to normal. While there is no evidence that natural treatments can cure thyroid, you can help with the healing by making dietary and lifestyle changes. These healthy changes, when combined with medications, can treat thyroid problems.
Tips
- Hormone therapy aimed at improving thyroid function can take several months. Your doctor may need to measure the level in your system through a blood test and adjust the dose as needed.
- Insomnia is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. After getting treatment, you should be able to sleep easily.
Warning
- Do not self-diagnose and treat thyroid problems. This condition cannot be treated at home because you need proper medical treatment to cure it.
- Do not make major changes to your diet without consulting your doctor first. You could be missing out on essential nutrients you need when you make big changes suddenly.
