The thyroid gland plays a fundamental role in homeostatic regulation. It helps keep us balanced by adjusting metabolism, producing energy, and balancing hormones. Uncontrollable fluctuations within the thyroid can manifest a variety of distressing symptoms and health problems.
Twenty million Americans are impacted by thyroid disease, with women being disproportionately affected. The most prevalent thyroid conditions are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Many thyroid conditions require medical intervention.
You can take preventative steps to avoid this outcome. From diet and exercise to supplements and stress management, there are many ways we can naturally boost thyroid health. In this article, we’re going to explore some of the most effective approaches to maintaining and supporting thyroid health at home.
What is the Thyroid, and what is its Function?
Knowing the purpose of the thyroid gland is critical for averting and managing thyroid problems. Located in the neck, the thyroid gland produces the hormones that regulate metabolic function as well as growth and development. The pituitary controls the release of thyroxine and triiodothyronine from the thyroid. Impaired performance of the thyroid gland can present itself as either a deficiency (hypothyroidism) or an excess (hyperthyroidism) of hormones.
Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help maintain a healthy thyroid gland. It is important to recognize that many thyroid panels are incomplete and inadequate. Furthermore, insurance coverage is often limited to medications only. Thyroid function tests can help detect abnormalities early for prompt treatment. We can also support thyroid health at home through proper nutrition and other means.
1. Diet and Nutrition for Optimal Thyroid Health at Home
Eating a well-balanced diet is key to the healthy functioning of your thyroid gland. Many of the most important components of our immune system lie within the gut.
Intestinal inflammation is known to cause thyroid problems. Dr. Forrest Sauer and his team can recommend a nutritious diet that lowers the risks of thyroid problems by maintaining optimum gut health.
- Optimal nutrition entails eating various fruits and vegetables; eggs; meat and red meat; protein; chicken; turkey; fish meals; nuts; and healthy saturated fats.
- Consuming 3-4 helpings of veggies and 1-2 servings of fruit daily is advised.
- Avoid unhealthy fats like peanut oil, canola oil, vegetable oil and sunflower oil. These harmful oils create inflammation and can destroy your thyroid health. We suggest incorporating healthy fat like olive oil, coconut oil, and avocados into one’s diet. These healthy fats are used to create hormones!
Eating healthy is one of the best ways to achieve total-body vitality. The right dietary changes can improve energy levels and help us better manage our thyroid health at home.
2. Environmental Toxin Reduction for Thyroid Health at Home
Environmental toxins can interfere with thyroid gland function. Limiting exposure to toxic substances can help maintain thyroid health at home and enhance your total well-being. Heavy metals and other toxic substances found in products like flame retardant materials and pesticides can harm thyroid health. Disruption of thyroid hormone production, harm to thyroid cells, and gland inflammation are some of the potential consequences of exposure to these toxins.
If you’re looking to decrease your contact with harmful environmental contaminants, consider incorporating habits like eating organically-grown crops, drinking purified water, or utilizing chemical-free cleaning supplies. Avoiding plastics, particularly those containing BPA, some shampoos on the hair, laundry soap etc can help lower your exposure to harmful chemicals.
Detoxification is an effective way to help your body eliminate toxins and support thyroid health. Some effective detox strategies include drinking green tea, taking milk thistle supplements, and incorporating detoxifying spices like turmeric and ginger into your diet.
Dr. Sauer has some cool tips to help you stay healthy. Looking for a healthier, more organic way to fragrance your room? Consider switching from synthetic air fresheners to pure essences derived from essential oils.
Consider choosing fresh or frozen options over their canned counterparts for a healthier diet. For instance, did you know storing food in glass or porcelain is better than plastic? It’s true! To safeguard yourself from dangerous toxins and maintain optimal health, ensure that your home has adequate ventilation. Stay healthy!
3. Managing Your Sleep and Stress for Stronger Thyroid Health at Home
Dr. Sauer recommends good quality sleep to maintain thyroid health, as it moderates the body’s levels of cortisol and insulin. Creating a relaxing sleeping environment, limiting caffeine consumption, and minimizing exposure to electronics before bed can all help you get better rest.
Chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid function. Relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can reduce stress levels and support your thyroid health at home. A functional medicine practitioner can help you find the stress management techniques that work best for you.
4. Maintain a Healthy Thyroid with Regular Exercise and Physical Activity
Regular physical activity has the potential to improve thyroid health by mitigating inflammation, lowering insulin resistance, and fostering hormone stability.
Both aerobic and resistance training exercises can improve thyroid function. For individuals troubled by thyroid concerns, engaging in physically vigorous activities may not conform to their safety requirements.
How Much Exercise is Ideal for Thyroid Health?
Exercise can help you manage thyroid health at home. The ideal amount of exercise to promote thyroid health varies from individual to individual. At Twin Oaks, we recommend that you engage in physical activity of reasonable intensity for at least thirty minutes each day. Healthy physical activities can include cardiovascular workouts (walking, biking, swimming, etc.), strength training (weightlifting, HIIT), and functional exercises (ideal for older people looking to stay fit). Just don’t overdo it!
5. Optimize Your Thyroid Health at Home with these Supplements
Incorporating vital minerals like iodine, selenium, zinc, and magnesium into your diet can help to sustain a healthy thyroid. The proper balance of vitamins and minerals is essential for efficient metabolic function. Seaweed, nuts, and leafy greens provide a great source of the vitamins and minerals needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
It’s important to choose high-quality supplements that don’t contain potentially harmful additives. For instance, supplements like kelp and bladderwrack contain high levels of iodine that can impact thyroid health. Soy supplements should be avoided as well. Talk to a healthcare practitioner who can recommend the nutrition supplements that will work best for your condition.
Get More Tips from Twin Oaks to Help Improve Your Thyroid Health at Home
Dr. Sauer and the team at Twin Oaks Health are dedicated to helping you live the best life possible. We emphasize natural approaches to preserve health and balance. Practicing thyroid-healthy habits at home can help prevent many thyroid function issues and limit the need for medical intervention. If you‘re looking for more ways to achieve and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle? Contact Twin Oaks Health today to speak to a functional medicine practitioner.
