The Thyroid and Your Health (Part 2)

Lourdes González, A.P., M.A., Lac., M.M.Q.Certified Specialist – National Acupuncture Board

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Normally, the thyroid secretes the necessary amount of hormones for the body to function optimally. However, sometimes an excess is produced, known as hyperthyroidism.This hyperactivity can be triggered by severe stress, toxicity from the consumption of additives, colorants, or highly processed foods, thyroid diseases or inflammation, nodules, or an autoimmune condition like Graves’ disease.

When we are healthy, the immune system produces antibodies to protect us from viruses and bacteria. In the case of Graves' disease, however, the immune system is out of control, and the antibodies attack the thyroid. Sometimes, they also attack the tissue behind the eyes (ophthalmopathy) and the skin (dermopathy).Some of the symptoms of this hyperactivity include: anxiety, irritability, hypertension, headaches, sensitivity to heat, insomnia, palpitations, tremors, weight loss, bulging or protruding eyes, frequent colds, and itching among many others.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, seek help from a healthcare professional. There are tests and blood exams that help diagnose this condition. It is important to gather information about all treatment options and their side effects before choosing one.

Some natural options and lifestyle changes that may help with this condition:

1. Know your body and recognize the symptoms. This way, you can identify changes caused by medications, treatments, remedies, or foods.

2. Avoid consuming colorants, additives, preservatives, alcohol, or stimulating beverages like coffee.

3. If you suffer from ophthalmopathy, wear sunglasses.

4. It is important to protect your bones. Consume foods rich in calcium like almonds, dark leafy greens, and legumes. Take about 15 to 20 minutes of early morning sunlight and supplement with Vitamin D3.

5. Several international health organizations recognize that thyroid issues can be effectively treated with acupuncture and Chinese medicine (herbs) to restore hormonal balance, energy levels, ease emotions, manage insomnia, and menstrual problems. Seek help from a certified professional.

6. The following foods help reduce thyroid production: cabbage, Swiss chard, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, and millet.

7. Avoid hot foods such as cinnamon, pepper, garlic, ginger, or herbs like ginseng and echinacea, as they further stimulate the immune system.

8. Add raw foods to your lifestyle. These refresh and help cool down the feeling of heat. According to Chinese Medicine, hyperthyroidism presents heat as one of its primary patterns.

The author is a certified specialist in Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, and Holistic Nutrition. For more information, contact 797-894-1414.

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