There are two main types of hypothyroidism, with numerous contributing factors:. Elevated levels of anti-TPO antibodies are found in approximately five percent of adults and 15 percent of older women. Individuals with other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes , celiac disease , and rheumatoid arthritis have a higher prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease. The current conventional medical treatment for hypothyroidism is daily thyroid hormone supplementation with synthetic levothyroxine T4 , liothyronine T3 , or natural desiccated thyroid T4 and T3 to correct low levels.
For some, the medication can create a yo-yo-ing of symptoms while trying to find the correct dosage. Naturopathic doctors are trained in the pharmacological treatments commonly prescribed by conventionally trained MDs, and in some states, prescribe pharmaceuticals when necessary. However, NDs rarely use medication as a standalone treatment. NDs individualize hypothyroid treatment, often combining diet, supplementation, botanical medicine, and conventional pharmaceuticals as needed.
If autoimmune disease is the main cause of thyroid dysfunction, NDs work to help control the inflammation and eliminate autoimmune triggers. Working to reduce thyroid antibodies, if possible, is the main goal of treatment. If the thyroid is just not producing enough thyroid hormone, NDs address lifestyle and environmental factors that may be contributing to low production.
Although every hypothyroid treatment is carefully individualized, some common natural therapies for hypothyroidism include:. Many nutritional factors play a role in optimizing thyroid function, and the right diet is important to help prevent and manage conditions that can accompany thyroid disease.
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Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Natural remedies. Sugar-free diet. Vitamin B. Gluten-free diet. The takeaway. Written by Jill Eisnaugle on March 18, Read this next. How to Control Hyperthyroidism Naturally. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. What Is Subclinical Hypothyroidism? Medically reviewed by Marina Basina, M. You are now subscribed Be on the lookout for a welcome email in your inbox!
Main Navigation. Log in Profile. Saved Articles. Contact Support. Log Out. Your cart is empty. Our online classes and training programs allow you to learn from experts from anywhere in the world. Explore Classes. Integrative Medicine Doctor. Last updated on October 29, In This Article. Go gluten-free. Limit your sugar intake.
Eat iodine-rich foods. Good sources of iodine include:. Seaweed, Nori , and other sea vegetables Shrimp Oysters Yogurt and cheese. Take a good probiotic. Try low-dose naltrexone. Manage stress. Get acupuncture. A last word on supporting your thyroid. If your iodine levels are low, replenish them quickly — either with dietary changes or iodine supplements. It is important to note that excessive iodine supplementation can also be detrimental and actually increase antibodies to the thyroid gland.
Antibiotic medications can wipe out the good and bad bacteria that live in your gut — leading to leaky gut. Recent research shows that probiotics reverse leaky gut by supporting the tight junction proteins that act as a barrier between your gut and your bloodstream. Selenium is an important nutrient found in muscle meats, fish, and eggs.
It can also be found in supplement form. First discovered in , vitamin D is naturally found in very few foods. We produce vitamin D most efficiently from exposure to sunlight. It is also available in dietary supplement form.
A study revealed that vitamin D is essential to thyroid function — and vice-versa. Vitamin D is also technically a hormone produced and secreted by the kidneys — the only vitamin with that distinction. To purchase third-party tested, medical grade Vitamin D, please look below or check out our online store. Chasteberry is commonly used to treat female hormone imbalances, such as PMS symptoms, menopause symptoms, and sometimes even infertility. Glutathione is the most abundant antioxidant naturally found in our bodies.
However, low levels of glutathione can occur due to stress, poor diet, or exposure to environmental toxins. Oxidative stress free radicals damaging your cells can increase the severity of hypothyroidism. Antioxidants like glutathione fight this oxidative stress. Curcumin is the bioactive ingredient in turmeric — a common spice.
It comes with its own host of health benefits, including prevention of autoimmune diseases. Like glutathione, curcumin is an antioxidant. Stress is a major factor in disrupting normal thyroid function. Relieving stress in your everyday life can lead to a stronger balance in your hormone levels and can potentially reverse hypothyroidism. Meditation is one easy way to alleviate stress and lessen symptoms of hypothyroidism.
A full eight hours of sleep is important to handling stress, as is sleep quality. To get better sleep, try cutting out blue light exposure an hour before bedtime. Blue light is emitted from most electronic devices, like your TV and phone. Not only should you sleep, you should relax. Yoga or taking up a hobby are two common methods of relaxing, therefore relieving stress. Being outside, especially in primarily green locations , can also lower levels of stress.
An exciting new area of medicine is peptide therapy. Peptide therapy is a safe method of targeting certain health issues in your body. The use of peptides has gained popularity as a treatment for hypothyroidism recently. Certain peptides seem to treat inflammation, Lyme disease, and autoimmune dysfunction — all root causes of hypothyroidism. The best part? Medications are used to treat hypothyroidism only when absolutely necessary, and as a last resort after addressing root causes.
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