Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Natural Treatments For An Enlarged Thyroid

Enlarged thyroids are caused by conditions that must be treated individually in order to reduce the enlarged gland. Overproduction of hormones can lead to hyperthyroidism, resulting in hair loss, weight loss, accelerated heart rate, trembling hands, insomnia and nervousness. Natural treatments that are helpful for enlarged thyroid conditions.


Grave's Disease


Grave's disease is an autoimmune condition that enlarges the thyroid; this genetic disorder usually occurs in women. Natural holistic remedies focus on the body reducing antibody production. Create a healthy diet high in immune system boosting foods like yogurt, tumeric, garlic, oregano, red bell peppers, green tea, pumpkin, ginger, oysters and broccoli. Stress relief also helps with Grave's disease.


Iodine or Selenium Deficiency








Thyroiditis is an inflammation in the thyroid and usually occurs as a result of a deficiency in selenium or iodine. Insufficient iodine levels cause the thyroid gland to become overstimulated and inflamed. Selenium aids in restoring normal thyroid metabolism.


Hashimoto's Thyroiditis


In addition to iodine or selenium deficiency, thyroiditis can be caused by the human body attacking its own thyroid. This condition cannot be cured but can be managed through exercise and a healthy diet. Herbs that treat this condition include equisetum arvense, oatstraw, alfalfa and gotu kola.


Thyroid Cancer


Consult with a physician before trying a natural treatment for thyroid cancer. Natural treatment must be used in combination with conventional treatment and focuses on reducing the intake of meat that can contain carcinogens. Protein supplements can be taken with a fruit and vegetable diet. Foods and supplements that fight thyroid cancer include parsley, vitamin D, green tea extract, whey protein, grits, citrus fruits, niacin, choline, selenium, melatonin and licorice root extract. Additionally, antioxidant-rich red beans, blueberries, cranberries, artichoke, raspberries, strawberries and prunes should be consumed .


Symptom Treatments


Treatable symptoms of an enlarged thyroid include being underweight and nervousness. Underweight patients must increase their weight slowly by eating several small, high calorie meals a day. Fats must be introduced into the diet primarily as vegetable fats. Strength training exercises encourage the body to gain weight. To combat nervousness try ginger, orange juice, honey, onion and celery. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga and meditation are also helpful with the nervousness linked to an enlarged thyroid and assist with stress, a contributing factor of enlarged thyroids.

Tags: enlarged thyroid, Grave disease, healthy diet, usually occurs