An increase in thyroid disorders

We have recently seen an influx of patients suffering from a thyroid disorder. In fact, an estimated 20 million Americans suffer with a thyroid disorder. Of this number, women are five to eight times more likely to be impacted with this condition and an estimated 1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid disorder in her lifetime. In South Africa, 10% of men and 16% of women between the ages of 65-74 years old will experience hypothyroidism, with that percentage increasing after the age of 74.  There are two types of thyroid conditions; hypothyroidism; which is an overactive thyroid, and Hyperthyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid condition. We take a closer look at both disorders and the different, natural alternatives to assist with the symptoms of these disorders.

Hypothyroidism

This refers to an under functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland functions below normal. As a result, the thyroid gland manufactures small or insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone.

Primary hypothyroidism means that there is a problem in the thyroid gland itself, whereas secondary hypothyroidism means that there is a problem in the release of secreting or stimulating hormones, which are secreted by the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which immune cells of the body attack the thyroid gland. This causes inflammation of the thyroid gland and a resultant decrease in thyroid function.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism include: tiredness, weight gain, difficulty losing weight, intolerance to cold, hair that is coarse and dry, loss of hair, pale skin that is rough and dry, muscle cramps, chronic constipation, weakness, loss of memory, depression, irregular menstrual cycles and decrease in libido.

Hypothyroidism can be caused by autoimmune disease like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Environmental factors such as chlorine, mercury and lead can also be a cause. Major events of life such as a stressful life event may play a role. Genetics, Down’s syndrome, medication side effects such as lithium, Glandular fever and radiotherapy to the head and neck can all also be contributors.

Hyperthyroidism

This occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive. As a result, a large amount of thyroid hormone is secreted which causes the body’s metabolism to increase.

Grave’s Disease is an autoimmune disease antibodies produced by the body’s immune system attach to the thyroid gland and stimulate the thyroid gland to produce and release a large amount of thyroid hormone. Symptoms of Grave’s Disease are an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) which can be visible and bulging of the eyes. There may also be watering of the eyes and double vision. Grave’s Disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism include intolerance to heat and sweating, weight loss despite increased appetite, palpitations, insomnia, hand tremors, restlessness, an increase in thirst, diarrhoea, thinning of hair, shortness of breath, periods that are lighter and infrequent in women and pruritis of the skin.

Hyperthyroidism can be caused by grave’s Disease, thyroid nodules (lumps on the thyroid gland that are benign), Thyroiditis (inflammation of thyroid gland causing large amounts of thyroid hormone production, e.g. may be caused by a virus). Taking very large doses of prescribed thyroid hormone or taking large amounts of iodine through supplementation, e.g. taking kelp supplements, can also contribute towards hyperthyroidism.

Natural management of Thyroid Conditions

600mg Broad spectrum high CBD Pain drops

CBD is an anti-inflammatory. It may reduce inflammation associated with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Grave’s Disease. CBD may also act as a natural immunosuppressant. This is very important in the management of autoimmune diseases, e.g. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Grave’s Disease. Most importantly, CBD may regulate the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in our body. An imbalance in the ECS can cause an imbalance in how our body functions leading to disease. Supplementing with CBD on a regular basis can restore balance or homeostasis within the ECS and our body restoring optimal health. The terpene blend in the CBD Pain drops also work together with CBD to produce a synergistic effect and resulting decrease in inflammation.

Rawbiotics Daily Balance

Good gut health is so important in the healthy functioning of our body. Abnormalities in the gastrointestinal system has been directly connected to the cause of autoimmune diseases, e,g, Grave’s Disease. The thyroid gland is also linked to the gastrointestinal system. Gut flora influences how important thyroid gland minerals are absorbed in the body, e.g. iodine, selenium, zinc. Poor gut health can result in a decreased absorption of these minerals and poor thyroid function. Therefore, supplementing with a good probiotic is essential for optimal thyroid health.

Nature’s Relief 2-in-1 healing oil

The 2 in 1 full spectrum healing oil may act as an anti-inflammatory and soothe the thyroid gland when it is topically applied to the anterior aspect of the neck on a daily basis.

Cordyceps mushrooms

This mushroom extract may restore homeostasis in the thyroid gland or may decrease inflammation associated with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Grave’s Disease.