Thyroid problems seriously impact your health, but for some patients, the treatment is not much better than the disease. Thyroid medication can cause unpleasant side effects like heart palpitations, sweating, nausea and even mood swings and depression. Further, for some thyroid patients, the medication simply does not work. There are alternatives, however. If you are suffering from either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, consider the following recommendations.
How to Get Thyroid Levels Normal Without Medication
Make changes to your diet. The foods you eat hugely impact your thyroid function and your overall health. Avoid the usual suspects like refined flour and processed foods. Some surprising foods can also negatively affect thyroid function. Steer clear of broccoli, cabbage, mustard greens, pears and peaches, which are thought to decrease thyroid function. Soy is another culprit, so choose a different protein source when possible.
Eat foods believed to improve thyroid health. Include foods rich in vitamin A, like green and yellow veggies, carrots and eggs, and iodine rich foods, especially seafood and seaweed (such as nori for sushi). Beef and chicken supply zinc, which supports thyroid health. Add coconut oil, available from health food shops, to salads and baked goods, because coconut oil is believed to help even out thyroid function.
Consider nutritional supplements. Prioritize B-complex vitamins and vitamins A and C. Zinc, magnesium, evening primrose oil, cod liver oil, iodine and silicone may improve the health of your thyroid.
Take desiccated natural thyroid hormone supplement, which is available over the counter. The makers of these supplements claim the thyroid hormones contained here are identical to those made by your thyroid. Although these supplements seem to lack the same potency as the synthetic thyroid hormone replacements available by prescription, they can benefit hypothyroid patients looking for a natural alternative.
Experiment with herbal supplements--just be sure to pick a supplement that matches your thyroid issue. Black walnut, Irish moss and kelp supplements may increase your thyroid function. Valerian root can help suppress thyroid function and is a good choice for those with hyperactive thyroids.