Treating Hyperthyroidism Naturally: Hyperthyroidism Diet and Foods

Clinically referred to as thyrotoxicosis, the prevalence of hyperthyroidism ranges between 0.2 percent in males and about 2 percent in females. Further community based studies have pointed out that prevalence of hyperthyroidism in elderly patients can be as high as 15 percent. Understanding the manifestation of hyperthyroidism is crucial to understand the severity of the disorder. Fortunately dietary regulations can help in efficient management of the condition.

Grave's Disease is responsible
for Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism: Etiology and Manifestations

Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by excessive production of the thyroid hormone, which in turn is associated with alteration of metabolic and physiological process of cells in the body. The causes of hyperthyroidism include,

• Autoimmune disorder, often referred to as the Graves Disease, where the body’s immune system releases anti-bodies against the thyroid gland resulting in increased production of the thyroid hormone
• Benign tumors of the thyroid glands can result in solitary nodules which are associated with hyperthyroidism
• Inflammation of the thyroid gland or thyroiditis is another condition which is associated with increased production of the thyroid gland

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a wide range of symptoms which include,  

• Sudden and rapid loss of weight
• Palpitations, increased heart rate and breathlessness
• Fatigue, exhaustion and tremors
• Intolerance to heat
• Irritability with disturbed sleep or insomnia
• Altered bowel movement
• Amenorrhea or irregular menstrual cycles
• Muscular weakness
• Hair loss

Natural Treatment for Hyperthyroidism: Foods for Hyperthyroidism

  

Cabbage is a goitrogenic
food and helps in treatment
of Hyperthyroidism

Here are some dietary tips that can help in efficient management of hyperthyroidism,

• Increase the intake of cruciferous vegetables. Foods like cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnip and broccoli are also termed as goitrogenic foods since they interfere with the body’s ability to utilize iodine effectively. These foods would reduce the utilization of iodine and thereby aid in reducing the excessive production of thyroid hormone, responsible for hyperthyroidism
• Millet, Sorghum, Soy and Cassava also act as goitrogens and block the availability of iodine
• Zinc supplementation is crucial especially in individuals suffering from hyperthyroidism. Overactive thyroid gland tends to deplete the zinc content in the body. Include foods like garlic, almonds. Peanuts, walnuts and pumpkin seeds in your diet. These foods are loaded with zinc
• Calcium supplementation is also important among individuals with hyperthyroidism. Increase the intake of prunes, dates, figs, turnips, sesame seeds which are good sources of calcium. Avoid diary food products
• Vitamin E and Vitamin C are powerful antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress and help in effective management of hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism and Diet: Foods to Avoid

Certain foods tend to aggravate the problem of hyperthyroidism and should be avoided in the daily diet menu,

•  Avoid canned and processed foods. These foods are loaded with chemicals, coloring agents and preservatives and tend to interfere with the normal production of hormones in the body
• Avoid refined foods like refined flour, white sugar, trans fats and pasta
• Avoid foods that are high in iodine content namely seafood and certain medication. Limit the intake of iodized salt, instead try using sea salt or non fortified salt
• Avoid tea, aerated beverages, alcohol and coffee. These foods interfere with the absorption of vital nutrients and further complicate the problem.