It is ironically symbolic how a small butterfly-shaped Thyroid gland in the neck regulates the processes of the entire body, more particularly in women. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is secreted by the pituitary gland and causes the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone. These hormones control most metabolic processes in the body and affect many organs. Imbalances in your thyroid can result in an under-functioning or overactive thyroid.
Stressed out lifestyle
Our hectic lifestyles, increasing stress levels, adulterated food and polluted environment cause many diseases and thyroid is one of them. Its causes may also be genetic or an iodine deficiency. One-third of Indians suffer from thyroid disorders out of which a majority is women over 35 years of age.  It doesn’t spare men and children either. In children, the thyroid can affect growth and development, so it’s important to know the symptoms and monitor thyroid levels in the body.
The first step to treat a problem is to understand it. So we must understand the thyroid function and how it is regulating our body. Listen to your body and understand its needs and changes.
Common symptoms are as follows
1. Feeling run down and tired
2. Irregularities in the menstrual cycle
3. Unexplained weight loss/gain
4. Sleep disturbances, irritability, anxiety, and restlessness
5. Unusual hair loss
6.  Sweat a lot more than usual
7. Feel too hot or too cold
8. Constipation or diarrhea
9. Muscle weakness
Thyroid disorders can affect emotions, energy, and mood. All of these are common symptoms and women are particularly more likely to have such disorders.
But don’t just count your symptoms and make self-diagnosis as the symptoms are mild in the beginning but it may have serious implications later. Some symptoms are mistaken for an approaching menopause. A simple blood test is a way to assure diagnosis. It’s always better to consult a doctor and take prescription medication of things look out hands. Occasionally, pregnancy can cause thyroid problems to start or get worse. If left untreated, this can cause problems for mother and baby.
Increase the intake of vitamin D rich foods like eggs, milk, fish etc. Try to incorporate more fruits, salads, and sprouts in your diet. Incorporate a lot of milk and milk products in your diet, as they are rich in calcium, minerals, and vitamins. Yoga has proved to restore the functioning of thyroid glands. It reduces the stress levels and calms those firing TSH hormones.
It’s a wonder how traditional Indian food recipes were designed to battle most diseases. The spices and herbs were not just for flavor but also for medicinal properties. The best treatments lie in our kitchen itself. The best ‘tried and tested’ home remedies are as follows.
Coconut
Coconut oil contains fatty acids that help improve thyroid functioning. It will also stimulate metabolism and boost energy. It also benefits low thyroid function. Use it as a cooking medium.
You can also add two tablespoons of coconut oil or fresh coconut milk to a glass of warm milk and drink it in the morning with your breakfast every day.
Walnut and honey
Honey soaked walnuts are excellent to control thyroid. They taste delicious but make sure you don’t eat more than 2 each day.
Apple cider vinegar
Add two tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water. Mix in a little honey.
Drink this solution daily on a regular basis. It aids detoxification, restores acid-alkaline balance, facilitates weight loss, and helps regulate hormones and improve their energy metabolism. Also beneficial for diabetes & high blood pressure.
Fish oil
Fish oils are considered good for increasing thyroid hormone uptake and maintaining healthy thyroid function. Being rich in omega 3 fatty acids, they also fight inflammation and increase immunity. Works great for women with joint pains.
Take fish oil supplements after consulting your doctor, especially if you are taking blood thinners. The general dosage is up to 3 grams per day.
Guggul
It’s a herb that stimulates thyroid function, has anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and cholesterol-lowering benefits.
You can take this herb in supplement form after consulting your doctor as it may interfere with estrogen, birth control pills, beta-blockers and other medications.
Generally, it is taken in doses of 25 mg two times a day. You can easily find it in an ayurvedic store or grocery shop.
Coriander seeds
Soak 2 teaspoons of coriander seeds in 2 glasses of water overnight. Prepare a concoction by boiling them till it reduces to one fourth. Drink the magic potion on an empty stomach every morning.
Ginger
Drink two cups of hot ginger tea every day. To make this herbal tea, add some fresh ginger slices to a cup of boiling water. Steep for five minutes, and then add some honey to it. Alternatively, fresh ginger root slices can be added to soups and food.
Ginger is a good source of zinc, magnesium, and potassium, and its powerful anti-inflammatory properties can help improve thyroid functioning.
There are certain foods that don’t agree with the thyroid gland and aggravate the symptoms. People suffering from thyroid must avoid the following foods:
- Rice
- Carbonated drinks
- Alcohol
- Canned foods and beverages
- Caffeine
- Â Cakes, sweets and other calorie-rich items should be avoided.
- Â Food items containing preservatives
- Products made out of white flour or maida
- High sugar content foods
- Vegetables like colocasia(arbi) and ladyfinger are also best avoided
- Making a few lifestyle changes and our commitment to wellness can control thyroid. Proper diet, exercise, and rest and low stress are the keys. The home remedies may look simple but work wonders if followed diligently.
Choose what works best for you and stay healthy, stay happy!