Naturally Combating Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, which is also referred to as thyrotoxicosis, is a condition in which an overactive thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones that circulate in your blood. The thyroid hormones circulating in your blood stimulate metabolism. People who have hyperthyroidism have over-stimulated metabolism, which can result in involuntary weight loss.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
Diarrhea
Increased heart rate
Hand tremors
Hair loss
Nervousness
Insomnia
Restlessness

Women may also experience light or decreased menstruation.

Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism

Graves' disease, which is hereditary and more common in women than in men, is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Graves' disease is caused by over activity of the thyroid gland and is believed to be the cause of up to 85 percent of primary hyperthyroid cases.

Graves' disease can be triggered by excessive stress, smoking, medications, radiation to the neck and viruses. Graves' ophthalmopathy, which can cause protruding eyes and double vision, may also occur with hyperthyroidism.

To treat Grave's disease naturally, avoid smoking, stress and any medications you are taking that could cause Grave's disease and follow the Hyperthyroidism diet tips below.

Hyperthyroidism Treatment Options

While there are effective medical treatments for hyperthyroidism including drug therapy, radioactive iodine therapy and surgery, a healthy diet can also help treat hyperthyroidism naturally. Talk with your health care provider about the best treatment options for you, and if you can treat your hyperthyroidism naturally with a recommended diet.

Natural Hyperthyroidism Diet Tips

Some nutritious foods are known to inhibit thyroid overproduction and help treat hyperthyroidism. These foods include:
Cauliflower
Beans
Green leafy vegetables
Soy
Fish

It is also believed by nutritionists that a diet high in Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C and calcium can help treat hyperthyroidism. Herbs such as mother wort and turmeric can also potentially stabilize the thyroid gland and resolve hyperthyroidism.

Make sure your diet includes healthy foods from the basic food groups: whole grains, vegetables and fruits, dairy products, lean meats, beans, and essential fats. Fish oils have been known to help treat hyperthyroidism, while refined table salt has been proven to make hyperthyroidism worse.

Naturally Treating Diabetes and Hyperthyroidism

If you have diabetes and hyperthyroidism, it can be much more difficult to manage your blood glucose levels with your diet alone. Your hyperthyroidism might need to be treated medically, as well as naturally with a proper diet in order to decrease your blood glucose to normal levels. Even if your body requires medicine, a healthy, natural diet will still help you combat your disease and make your medical treatment more effective. Your health care provider should recommend the right treatment plan for you.

If you have hyperthyroidism, ask your health care provider about treatment options and a healthy diet for you. You may need to increase your calorie intake to maintain a healthy body weight, until your thyroid gland is stabilized. Your health care practitioner can advise you about diet changes and hyperthyroid treatment options.