Can you really heal your thyroid naturally with proper diet, exercise and stress maintenance? The answer is yes! When individuals are told they have hypo- or hyperthyroidism, the “only option” available to them by their doctors is drugs – these drugs also come with nasty side effects like heart palpitations, nervousness, insomnia, tremors, frequent bowel movements, discomfort in warm weather, and osteoporosis (bone thinning as a result of taking high medication doses for long periods of time).
How does the thyroid work? The thyroid sits in the front of the neck and is responsible for secreting proper amounts of thyroid hormone. The thyroid is incredibly important because it effects every cell in the human body by helping to increase or decrease the metabolic activity of the cells.
There are a variety of causes as to why your thyroid might be malfunctioning. Below are some of these causes:
Nutrient Deficiencies:
Chromium, copper, iodine, iron, selenium, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12
Medications:
Beta blockers, birth control pills, estrogen, iodinated contrast agents, lithium, phytoin, steroids, theophylline
Nutrition:
Too many cruciferous vegetables, soy
Other:
Aging, alcohol, lipoic acid, diabetes, fluoride, lead, mercury, obesity, pesticides, radiation, stress, surgery
How can you fix your thyroid naturally?
Improving your overall health through eating properly and ruling out adrenal fatigue is the first step to helping your thyroid heal on its own, naturally. In addition, ensuring adequate sleep, recovery from any kind of exercise and proper stress reduction techniques are all critical in improving thyroid function.
Here are SIX STEPS to help your thyroid start functioning at it’s optimal best:
1. Foods You Should Be Consuming:
Seaweeds
Seaweed products like nori, kelp, dulse, wakame, etc. are very high in iodine which is what a lot of individuals with thyroid problems are lacking. Iodine is essential for proper thyroid functioning because it helps the thyroid gland produce the hormone thyroxin which regulates our metabolism.
Selenium-rich Foods
A major contributor to thyroid problems is a lack of selenium. This mineral keeps the various hormones produced by the thyroid gland in balance. Foods rich in selenium include garlic, kelp, onion, sunflower and sesame seeds as well as brazil nuts!
Essential Fatty Acids
To help out our metabolism, it is important to eat foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. This includes things such as leafy green vegetables, nuts (i.e., walnuts), pumpkin & sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, chia seeds and avocado. Don’t forget seeded fruits such as watermelon, berries, pomegranates, kiwi, etc. also contain these essential fatty acids within their seeds. Consuming watermelon seeds is harmless! They taste wonderful too! Finding seeded watermelons is pretty much near impossible unless you grow your own heritage watermelon or pick up non-hybrid watermelons from a local farmers market.
Copper & Iron-rich Foods
Copper and iron are also crucial to help the thyroid function properly. Foods rich in copper include things such as sunflower & hemp seeds, nuts (cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, brazil nuts), shittake mushrooms, spirulina, and tomatoes. Copper is also found (in lesser amounts) in pears, persimmons, peaches, apricots, prunes, dates, grapes, avocado, and potatoes.
For an extensive list of iron-rich plant foods to consume, click HERE.
2. Foods You Should Eliminate:
Soy
Soy is in the category of foods known as “goitrogens” which promote the formation of a goiter (enlarged thyroid). Goitrogens also slow down thyroid functioning and can trigger thyroid disease. The isoflavones found in soy are inhibitors of thyroid peroxidase which is the main factor in creation of T3 and T4. Inhibition of thyroid peroxidase can lead to thyroid abnormalities.
Too many cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables contain compounds called goitrogens, substances that disrupt the production of thyroid hormones by interfering with iodine uptake in the thyroid gland. This doesn’t mean to eliminate cruciferous vegetables – these guys are vitamin and mineral dense and have wonderful effects on the body. In fact, I encourage you to eat these foods, just not every day. Limiting yourself to cruciferous vegetables 3-4 times per week, instead of 7 days a week is a good place to start! Cruciferous vegetables include things like brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, collard greens, bok choy, chinese cabbage, watercress, arugula, turnips and parsnips.
Wheat Products (and other grains like rye, barley, millet & oats)
Foods that contain gluten (aka. wheat, rye, barley, millet, oats) contain gliadin (the protein portion of gluten), which closely resembles the molecular structure of the thyroid gland. When we consume gluten, this protein is targeted by the immune system for destruction – but, because the thyroid gland also closely resembles this protein, the immune system gets confused and also starts attacking the thyroid gland, mistaking it for the gliadin intruder.
If you must eat grains, consume pseudo-grains like rice, amaranth, buckwheat, quinoa, sorghum, teff or wild rice! There are plenty of options available, as you can see!
Coffee
Be wary of your coffee intake. Coffee raises cortisol levels, and cortisol slows down the production of thyroid hormone. In addition, if you are on thyroid medication, coffee consumed within 60 minutes of taking said hormone replacements reduces absorption even further. Our thyroid hormone consists of two main players: T4 and T3. T4 is needed to make T3, and T3 is the component that helps boost metabolism, keeps weight levels down, and puts you in a happy mood. High cortisol (triggered by coffee consumption, and other external stressors as mentioned below) blocks the production of T3, leading to slowed metabolism, weight gain and poor moods.
3. Reduce Stress:
Did you know that chronic stress can trigger a thyroid condition? If you suffer from any kind of thyroid condition, being able to manage your stress levels is essential! Especially if you wish to treat your thyroid naturally. When we are bombarded with stressful situations such as stressful jobs, relationships, financial issues, etc., our body goes into over-drive and our adrenal and thyroid glands become overwhelmed and stop functioning properly. As a protective mechanism, the body slows down thyroid hormone production to slow metabolism and slow down the catabolic process that normally occurs when the body is in a high state of stress.
Managing your stress by meditating and relaxing, getting out of toxic relationships with friends or lovers, opting for a job that will make you happy instead of stressed and learning how to properly manage your money are all ways to help de-stress and improve the functioning of the thyroid.
4. Exercise:
To improve thyroid function and to heal a poorly functioning thyroid you must exercise at least 3 days a week for 40 minutes! Whether that is walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, you name it! Exercise helps lower insulin levels (especially circuit training) which helps to boost thyroid function. Make sure you get adequate recovery time too! Without enough recovery time, your body will not have enough time to heal and this can lead to burnout.
5. Remove All Chemicals & Endocrine Disruptors:
This includes toxin-free living in your home and body. The endocrine system (also called “hormone system) is made up of glands throughout the body which secrete hormones to be released to other parts of the body (which respond to said hormones). The thyroid gland is apart of the endocrine system, and so it is important to avoid harsh chemicals, especially those classified as endocrine disruptors. Disruption of the endocrine system can occur via some chemicals which mimic a natural hormone and fool the body into over-responding to the stimulus or responding at times when not appropriate. Other endocrine disruptors block hormones from entering certain receptors, while others cause the overproduction or underproduction of hormones.
Many of your household chemical cleaners, hair-care products, skin-care products, air fresheners, perfumes, and the like, contain these chemicals. Going all-natural is the best way to avoid harsh chemicals. When it comes to eating food, switching to a high-organic, pesticide/herbicide/fungicide free diet is the best way to avoid any potential endocrine disruptors.
Here is a list of endocrine-disrupting chemicals which directly target the thyroid gland:
Persistent organohalogens (found in chemical cleaners, hair-care/skin-care products, etc.):
– Benzenehexachloride (BHC)
– Octachlorostyrene
– PBBs
– PCBs
– PCB, hydroxylated
Pesticides (found in MANY foods, not labelled organic: boxed, bagged, canned, fruits, veg):
– Acetochlor
– Alachlor
– Amitrol
– Chlofentezine
– Ethylene thiourea
– Fenbuconazole
– Fipronil
– Heptachlor
– Heptachlor-epoxide
– Karate
– Malathion
– Mancozeb
– Maneb
– Methomyl
– Mirex
– Nitrofen
– Pendimethalin
– Pentachloronitrobenzene
– Prodiamine
– Pyrimethanil
– Tarstar
– Thiazopyr
– Thiram
– Toxaphene
– Zineb
– Ziram
Other compounds:
– Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS)
– Resorcinol
Metals:
– Mercury
Sources:
http://drchadedwards.com/1407/the-mismanaged-thyroid-gland-hormones/
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/thyroid-hormone-medications-for-hypothyroidism
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sara-gottfried-md/thyroid-coffee_b_1585136.html
http://www.epa.gov/endo/pubs/edspoverview/whatare.htm
http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/basics/chemlist.htm
This information for the thyroid is exactly what I was looking since I was diagnosis in August. I had no idea how certain vegetables could be so bad for me. I love broccoli and brussel sprouts which I will now watch how much I eat of them. And coffee I usually have a cup of coffee within 10 minutes of taking my thyroid pill which I am stopping immediately. I will let you know how much it helps my health by following your information. My thyroidism is just barely there so I am looking forward to healing it and getting off the pills.
Awesome Linda! I look forward to hearing your success!
I had my total thyroidectomy done…..5 years ago. I am taking(lifetime) thyroid hormone pill.
Can you please give me some advice how to stay healthy even without my thyroid.
This article is a good place to start! 🙂
I have been on thyroid meds for year and half. I also have hashmottios which works against what I am doing. Any suggestions
Use the information provided in this article! 🙂 lots of fresh raw fruits and vegetables, get off animal products, and de-stress.
Hi I have thypo thyroid only mild after cutting out foods that one should not have and add the ones I should has improved my results without meds but I am a bit confused as one site says have beets and carrots you say don’t I juice celery ,cucumber carrot and coconut water everyday and my results have just got better.
“Simply limiting yourself to cruciferous vegetables 3-4 times per week, instead of 7 days a week”
This is what I said – don’t get rid of these vegetables completely as they contain beneficial nutrients. Just don’t eat them everyday.
Do you know someone who has healed from this desease by changing eating habbits?
Hey Kari,
There are many accounts of individuals who have healed their thyroid problems – simply google it! 🙂
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Hi my name is Kerry, I found myself nervous at times and easily get anxious. However it was very embrassing to me so I went to the doctor. He said I should do a blood test I did and the result came back that I'm hyperthyroidism.
He put me on Apo-Propranolol and NeoMercazole and I'm not having the problems anymore but my concern is do I have to be on these medications forever?
No you don't need to be on the medication forever, but once you go off, your symptoms will re-appear. Drugs only cover up an issue that is more deeply rooted. So you are basically putting a temporary bandaid on your issue right now. Google "How to treat hyperthyroid naturally" and you will find many articles.
Hello Mam, This is Kunal from India and i m 28, just before 22 days i came to know that i have hypothyroidism over 37. As Dr. suggested i dropped taking over protein, soy items and some vegetables since last 22 days. Taking Thyronorm 50 every morning in empty stomach. Now I am having issue with my breathing which i feel has got shorten and also i feel dizziness throughout the day. Became weak . I remain anxious also. I searched over google for some solution but get confused on various suggestions. Today i found you and your site and i would follow your advises. Also Mam can you suggest me what food or fruit will give me energy and heal the breathing problem which i can take regularly. Looking forward to hear from you. Thank you.
I would get off medication immediately, its only covering up an underlying problem. Hypothyroid, take a kelp supplement for iodine, get plenty of sun, take a probiotic every day, and stop stressing.
Hi would you recommend getting off of synthroïd and onto a supplement ? Would that help to heal the gland ?
There are different ways of getting off medications – I would suggest seeing a naturopath and tell them you want to get off, and they will figure out a plan for you. Medications are just going to make the condition worse and not fix anything.
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hello mam i jst found ur article today ive been diagnosed of hyperthyroidism 4months ago.my chinese doctor gave me a 100% pure organic seaweeds and fish oil and he advise me not do exercise or extreneous activity now im gaining weight what should i do to prevent from obessity?im 28yrs old
Hyper or hypo thyroid? You shouldn't be gaining weight if you are hyper.
Hello my name is Chag – I have hypothyroidism for the past 5 years and have been on thyronorm ever since I was diagnosed. My weight was 95kgs 5 years ago. Now I am 77 kgs. The dosage I am taking keeps varying. initially I was on thyronorm 150mcg and then 125mcg then 100mcg and now am taking to 112.5mcg. Even after taking medication – I Still feel weak and drousy after lunch. Is there a way I can get off medication completely. I am 38 yrs.
I would stick to plant-based diet, follow these tips, and maybe consider eating some brazil nuts for selenium and check up on Medical Medium and what he has to say about hypothyroidism.
Hi miss carly, i have hyperthyroidism recently detected, is there any particular food that i should avoid? Kindly give me your humble advice. I am a good eater of any food and i am always hungry, but i am only 45 kilos and i'm 46. Will often eating affects hyperthyroidism? Thank you in advance
Going plant-based is best. Get rid of wheat, dairy, soy and eggs. And make sure you're getting enough vitamin D from the sun!
In the above description, cashew nuts like dry fruits are recommended for consumption, whereas my doctor forbade me from eating dry fruits coz they aggravate thyroidism. Should one really be supposed to eat them or not?
cashews are not dried fruit. Which things did your doctor recommend you to not eat?
Hi,
I have been battling with hyperthyroidism for a few years now but my doctor has never put me on medications because she says that my levels aren't low enough. But I battle with anxiety, nervousness, and even weight loss to name a few. I also was told that I have small nodules on my thyroid.
Is there anything that you can suggest I try?
Most of my research has been done on hypothyroidism. For hyperthyroidism, I would still stick with a plant-based diet, drink plenty of water, and get lots of sleep. Here is a good article on hyperthyroidism (sans the bone broth): https://draxe.com/5-ways-treat-hyperthyroidism-naturally/
hi ,i am borderline hyperthyroidism,i have read that taking flexseed is a no ,no. why?.can you take Shelled Hemp,to give my system a boost.Is it good to take coconut oil as a supplement Is it still ok to work out with weights etc.many thanks
Hey Stephen,
I haven't wrote about hyper yet, but here is a good resource:
https://draxe.com/5-ways-treat-hyperthyroidism-naturally/
Hi Carly,
I am a 53 y/o male and i have very large nodules on both sides of my thyroid.
I have been researching whether or not there is a natural way to reduce the nodules before going to my last resort which is surgery.
Hey Kevin – have you tried all of these tips? You can contact me at [email protected] personally if you want.
Hi Carly,
My Dr. recently diagnosed me with 'borderline' hypothyroidism. I am a 44 year old male, and, in the past 6 months I have put on 30lbs, and always feel tired. As he says its 'borderline', I don't want to take the synthetic Levothydocine (sp?) rather I want to try naturally I don't know where to begin. Do you have any good resources for a diet plan, that I can institue immediately? I have, since diagnosis, removed all flurodie form my diet/water, plan on having my fillings removed due to them being the mercury kind, and will try to excercise, although I always feel tired afterwork. I am not sure if its the weight thats making me more tired or the thyroid weakness. ny advice would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
Have you read through these tips and implemented all of them?
Hi Carly,
My daughter who is 6 years old has recently been diagnosed with hypothyroidism with TSH > 750. Can you please guide me what should be the best way to help her get rid of this problem so that she doesnt have to take the medicine life long?
Thanks
Sonia
Check out this article: https://draxe.com/5-ways-treat-hyperthyroidism-naturally/
Hi Carly,
I am 32 year old male and have Hypothyroid since past 2 years and taking 0.1 mg Synthroid supplement. I wanted to get rid of it but then always come to know that we have to take medication all the time.
If I follow your tips mentioned in the article, do you think it will help me reduce the supplement and gradually stop taking it?
Your advice will be really Appreciated
These tips will greatly improve the health of your thyroid, yes. I would suggest googling how other people went off their synthroid medication to make sure you go off of it in a safe manner (or ask your doctor).
is drogon fruit safe to eat for all us .my first time trying it i wonder will do to me or any one.
Dragon fruit can be consumed by anyone.
Hi
I recently found out that I have overactive thyroid. I'm not on any medication because I'm breastfeeding.im worried that if I don't get treatment might keep losing weight. Is there anyway to stop losing weight. Please help
And also I'm losing so much hair.
Please can you suggest something which will help me maintain the thyroid.i look like sketleten ?
You must have hyperthyroid. I hope to be writing something about this in the near future – stay tuned.
Dear Carly Fraser,
I am new to your site.First reading your regarding your advised about cure your thyroid gland naturally and the tips you given are truly mankind sense for those suffering or having thyroid problems.
As for my case I am having thyroid cancer and Dr said that I needed surgery to have it remove.
May I seek your advise is there anyway that I need not go for surgery?Appreciate much to hear from you soon.Best Regards,Margaret
Hey Margaret, I don't think I am qualified enough to tell you what to do with your body – only you know what you can do. If I had cancer personally, I would probably find alternative means to get rid of it. Cannabis oil, raw plant-based diet (focus on high alkaline), lots of leafy greens and herbs, plenty of water, stress reduction techniques, chaga tea, and so much more. You can e-mail me at [email protected] if you need.
hlu dear carly Fraser.
I am very happy to find this site because as of now i feel there is a lump in my throat ,i have difficulty swallowing , the EENT doctor found out growth on both side of my thyroid..no diagnosis yet because according to the doctor i have to go for biopsy ..but the schedule for the said biopsy is too long ..it will be January 9,2018..and i am so afraid for the time of waiting is so long before a medication begin..the doctor said we cant begin any medication until we get a result of the biopsy..do you think this growth will reverse if i will do the diet that you mentioned above?..
Yes, I think the body can heal naturally. There is no harm in trying out the suggestions in the article, other than improving your health, they won't harm you.
Hi Carley I have pics and hyperthyroidism breastfeeding losing a lot of weight what can I do?
Pcos not pics!
Hey Adia, it sounds like something likely hormone related – which makes sense, given you just had a baby (I'm assuming, you're breastfeeding). Please check out this article from a different website: https://draxe.com/5-ways-treat-hyperthyroidism-naturally/
Is hypothyroid tsh will come to normal once the body is relieved from stress.
Stress is a major contributing factor for a mal-functioning thyroid.