21 Mar How Does Naturopathic Treatment for Hypothyroidism Work?
Nearly 5 percent of Americans 12 years and older suffer from hypothyroidism, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Hypothyroidism is a condition that results in a lack of thyroid hormones. It can cause fatigue, weight gain, depression, and other symptoms.
Getting diagnosed with hypothyroidism may seem scary to many, but treatment for thyroid issues is not limited to conventional medicine. Nowadays, many patients choose naturopathy as a way to overcome their hormonal issues.
How does naturopathic treatment for hypothyroidism work? Keep reading to find out.
What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid disease) is when your thyroid fails to produce or release enough thyroid hormone into your body. This slows down your metabolism, which affects your entire body.
Underactive thyroid disease can be acquired through a variety of means, including autoimmune disease, radiation therapy, and surgical removal of the thyroid gland.
Understanding Thyroid Hormones
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ, located just below the voice box (larynx) in your neck. Its main function is to regulate your metabolism and body systems by producing the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a vital role in controlling your heart rate and body temperature.
When your thyroid works properly, it constantly makes and releases hormones, and then creates new ones to replace those that have been released.
The pituitary gland controls the level of thyroid hormones found in the bloodstream. When it senses a shortage or excess of thyroid hormone, the pituitary adjusts its hormone (thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH), which it then sends to the thyroid for balance.
Negative health consequences may arise if the thyroid hormones are too low (hypothyroidism), or too high (hyperthyroidism).
[Read: A Quick Guide To Understanding Your Thyroid Labs]
Causes of Hypothyroidism
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune thyroid disease known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Other than autoimmune diseases, hypothyroidism may be caused by the following:
- Iodine deficiency
- Thyroid issues such as thyroiditis and hyperthyroidism
- History of radiation therapy
Unhealthy lifestyle habits that may affect a person’s metabolism, energy, and weight may also cause trigger hypothyroidism:
- poor diet
- lack of exercise
- stress
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Dry skin
- Brain fog
- Cold intolerance
- Muscle cramps
- Hair loss
- Constipation
Naturopathic Treatment for Hypothyroidism
Naturopathic medicine uses nutrients, herbs, supplements, and medications to correct thyroid hormone balance and ensure that you are treated as an individual and not as a laboratory value.
Licensed naturopathic doctors are trained to manage inflammation and eradicate autoimmune triggers. Treatment aims to reduce thyroid antibodies as much as possible. If the thyroid does not produce enough hormone, NDs will address lifestyle and environmental factors.
Your naturopathic doctor may recommend some changes in your diet to improve thyroid function. This could include reducing your intake of dairy, gluten, or processed foods. You might also be encouraged to consume more whole foods such as fruits and vegetables.
Many supplements, including vitamin b12, zinc, and selenium, may be prescribed too when treating hypothyroidism through naturopathy.
Your health and thyroid function are dependent upon your adrenal gland health. Supporting them with herbs and stress management may make a huge difference.
Experience Holistic and Safe Treatment for Thyroid Disease
Naturopathic medicine is a holistic and harmless treatment that can be used to effectively treat hypothyroidism and helps prevent any future thyroid imbalance and health complications.
At Winter Wellness we strive to get to your root cause. If you suspect any symptoms of thyroid imbalance, give us a call or book an appointment today for a comprehensive health assessment!