Hypothyroidism and Homeopathy
Hypothyroidism (also known as underactive thyroid) is a state in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Since the main purpose of thyroid hormone is to “run the body’s metabolism”, it is understandable that people with this condition will have symptoms associated with a slow metabolism. Underactive thyroid is a very common medical condition and statistics suggest that 1 in 50 women and 1 in 1000 men will develop symptoms of hypothyroidism. It is more common in older women and can also occur more frequently during pregnancy.
Thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland, in the front of the neck. The function of the thyroid gland is to convert iodine found in many foods into thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Only the thyroid gland has cells that can absorb iodine. The thyroid takes the iodine from foods, supplements and iodized salt and combines it with the amino acid tyrosine to produce T3 and T4. T3 and T4 travel throughout the body through the bloodstream and help cells convert oxygen and calories into energy. The pituitary gland produces the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce more T3 and T4 hormones. If the levels of T3 and T4 thyroid hormones in the blood increase, the pituitary gland responds by reducing the production of TSH. The hypothalamus gland is located in the brain; it produces the TSH Releasing Hormone (TRH) which communicates with the pituitary gland which in turn stimulates the thyroid gland by producing and releasing TSH.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
There are several potential diseases and conditions that can cause Hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide. In iodine-replete individuals hypothyroidism is frequently caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or otherwise as a result of either an absent thyroid gland or a deficiency in stimulating hormones from the hypothalamus or pituitary.
General Management for Hypothyroidism
Diet - The thyroid gland needs an array of nutrients to function optimally. Add essential fatty acids to your diet. Cold water fish such as salmon and cod as well as flaxseed, walnuts and almonds are great sources. Another option is to take a daily supplement such as fish oil. Seaweed, chlorella and algae should also be consumed frequently. They are rich in iodine and essential nutrients that maintain thyroid function balance.
Another important thing to keep in mind when it comes to a natural diet for hypothyroidism is that there are also foods that actually slow down thyroid function. These include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, soy, beans, and mustard greens. Also, take care to avoid overly processed food and limit dairy, sugar, artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and alcohol intake. Natural remedies and herbs can also be used to support optimal thyroid function.
Supplements of Vitamin C, E, Riboflavin, Zinc, Niacin, and pyridoxine might also help boost thyroid hormone Production.
Exercise – Aerobic exercise for 15 – 20 min a day is excellent for maintaining good thyroid function. It may boost the metabolism thus promoting good health.
Homoeopathic Management for Hypothyroidism*
Homoeopathy considers a disease to be the result from emotional distress and frustration, which blocks the life force energy into various different organs or glands. Homeopathy considers thyroid problem as one such autoimmune glandular dysfunction. Homeopathy offers better chances of a complete healing since the therapy is based on the person’s individual constitution. Conventional method for thyroid dysfunction relies mainly on drugs and surgery, whereas homeopathic approach improves the function of the thyroid gland through natural means. Homeopathic remedies work by stimulating the body’s own healing power. Homeopathic remedies stimulate the body to reactivate the hormone secretions, replenish and restore the thyroid tissue through the pituitary and other glands as a whole allowing the body to heal itself. Another striking thing about homeopathy is that it has no side effects. People on multiple medications can safely take homeopathic medicines. Homoeopathic natural remedies are non-habit forming. Homeopathic remedies stimulate the body’s own immune system and offer a long lasting cure rather than giving temporary relief.