- Eat from the sea. The sea provides many natural sources of iodine, a building block of the thyroid hormone. Salt has a high concentration of iodine, but it can raise blood pressure. Instead, opt for saltwater fish, or try seaweed in a salad. Cod and halibut are high in selenium, which protects the thyroid gland during periods of stress and helps regulate hormone synthesis. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that reduce inflammation, which plays a role in causing autoimmune diseases. Here’s my favorite
way to incorporate sea veggies into my healthy eating plan.
- Eat from the earth. Eat foods high in B vitamins, which are precursors to thyroid hormones and influence cell energy. Balance your diet with poultry, nuts and seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Red meat provides iron, zinc, magnesium, and other minerals essential for thyroid hormone function, and the health of other bodily systems affected by thyroid disorders (skin, hair, metabolism).
- Relax. A daily relaxation practice, such as just 10 minutes a day of silence and deep breathing, can make a difference in the state of mind and body.
- Move it! Exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Yoga is particularly good for thyroid health, including poses such as butterfly, fish pose, shoulder stand, and child’s pose.
- Get supplemental insurance. Our diets aren’t perfect, so supplementing with a vitamin/mineral or botanical (herb) regimen can provide extra insurance against exposure to stress, toxins, and perhaps your own family history. Be sure to consult with your wellness practitioner about the best nutraceutical products for you.
Eliminate the stress of shopping for mineral-rich foods and supplements. Many healthy thyroid-supporting foods may be purchased at wholesale prices online and delivered right to your door. And I’d be happy to help you take the guesswork out of finding the best supplements for you with my Herbal Healing services.
Which sea vegetable is or favorite or which one would you like to try? Share in the comments below!
Resources
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American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. “Natural Therapies for Hypothyroidism..” October 11, 2013.
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American Thyroid Association. “ATA Patient Education Web Brochures.” Accessed May 2015.
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Hormone Health Network. “Your Thyroid: What You Need to Know..” Accessed May 2015.
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Women to Women.”Alternative Hypothyroidism Treatment..” Accessed May 2015.
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