Thyroid disorders have been reported to be on the increase with research efforts being dedicated to conventional medicine. Turmeric is an ancient spice used in cooking and as a medicinal ingredient. It has been gaining traction among people looking for natural remedies to treat thyroid disorders, which can affect the body’s metabolism. In this article, we’ll discuss how turmeric may help improve thyroid dysfunction and provide insight into its potential benefits.
The thyroid gland controls many aspects of the metabolism of our bodies. Disturbance of this gland of its function can produce symptoms in many parts of our bodies. Many people have been put on thyroid supplements over a long time that they may not have required in the first place making them dependent on them.
According to Andrew Will, M.D. in his book, Natural Health, Natural Medicine, overactivity of the thyroid gland can lead to weight loss, insomnia, hand tremors, palpitations, heat intolerance, and digestive disturbances. It is uncommon in under activity of the gland and usually requires conventional treatment with drugs or surgery.
Turmeric contains the active ingredient curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce oxidative stress. Research suggests that it could be beneficial in treating various types of thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s disease, Graves’ disease, goiters, and hypothyroidism.
We’ll also explore how turmeric might interact with medications prescribed to treat these conditions and any possible side effects associated with using it.
What Is Turmeric?
Turmeric is like a ray of sunshine, radiating its bright yellow hue and providing a bounty of health benefits. It has been used for centuries in traditional Eastern medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including thyroid disorders. Turmeric may be used in its raw form or as a supplement.
Curcumin, an active ingredient found in turmeric, is believed to be the source of these healing properties. It works by increasing antioxidant levels in the body, which helps fight inflammation and improve overall immunity. Curcumin also targets specific pathways associated with diseases such as diabetes or heart disease.
Additionally, curcumin has been shown to lower blood pressure naturally, making it an ideal supplement for those suffering from hypertension-related conditions. The many therapeutic effects that come from consuming turmeric make it one of nature’s most potent healers. You should, however, never stop prescription medicine for turmeric without consulting the doctor.
Studies suggest adding just 1/4 teaspoon per day to your diet may help boost energy levels and promote improved mental clarity while aiding in managing symptoms related to thyroid disorders.
With so much potential benefit packed into this tiny root spice, there’s no reason not to give it a try!
What causes Thyroid Disorders?
Common thyroid disorders types
There are many types of thyroid disorders, but the main ones are listed below.
- Hypothyroidism: This happens when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition, can be the cause.
- Hyperthyroidism: In this case, the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones. Graves’ disease, another autoimmune condition, is a frequent cause of hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid Nodules: These are abnormal lumps that can form in the thyroid gland. Most nodules are benign, but some can be cancerous.
Natural Ways To Support Thyroid Disorders
Natural ways to support thyroid health can be beneficial, but they may not replace medical treatment. Here are some suggestions that you should consider;
- Diet: Eat foods rich in iodine, like seaweed, fish, and dairy products, to support thyroid function. Also, include selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, eggs, and sunflower seeds. Your body is an ecosystem that needs to be nourished with foods that improve your overall well-being.
- Reduce Stress: High-stress levels can negatively affect the thyroid—practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Incorporate soothing music, depending on the environment in which you find yourself.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps to maintain overall health and can support thyroid function. Don’t restrict yourself to gym exercise, walking and swimming will give great results too. It is recommended that you practice yoga posture known as shoulder stand. It stimulates the thyroid and works better when combined with a visualization of your gland waking up from a long period of inactivity.
- Herbal Supplements: Some herbs, like ashwagandha and guggul, may have positive effects on the thyroid. However, consult with a healthcare professional before trying any herbal remedies.
- Avoid Goitrogens: Certain foods like cabbage, broccoli, and soy may interfere with thyroid function in some individuals. Moderation is key.
- Get Enough Sleep: Adequate sleep helps support thyroid function by regulating hormone production and balance in the body. During sleep, the body repairs and restores its energy levels, allowing for optimal functioning of various systems, including the thyroid. Sufficient sleep promotes proper hormone production, which is essential for the regulation of metabolism, growth, and overall body functions. Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, potentially affecting thyroid health. Therefore, prioritizing and ensuring adequate sleep can contribute to overall thyroid wellness.
How Does Turmeric Affect The Thyroid Disorders?
Turmeric has long been used as a natural remedy for many ailments, including thyroid disorders. Its active ingredient, curcumin, is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be beneficial for those with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism due to its ability to minimize swelling of the thyroid gland.
Additionally, turmeric can help regulate hormones associated with the thyroid, such as thyroxine and triiodothyronine. The antioxidants present in turmeric are also believed to support the immune system’s health by neutralizing free radicals that could potentially harm cells responsible for producing thyroid hormones.
Studies suggest that taking turmeric supplements may improve overall symptoms related to an overactive or underactive thyroid. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could potentially support thyroid health. Several studies have shown promising results in animal and limited human trials, indicating potential benefits in managing thyroid disorders.
In addition to being taken orally, turmeric can also be applied topically to treat certain skin conditions caused by hormonal imbalances, such as psoriasis and eczema. It’s important to consult your doctor if you’re considering using this herb therapeutically, since some medications may interact negatively when combined with it. Taking too much turmeric could cause unwanted side effects as well, so always make sure you follow the appropriate dosage guidelines set out by your healthcare provider.
Health Benefits Of Turmeric For Thyroid Disorders
Pleasantly potent, turmeric is a tantalizing tonic for thyroid troubles. The bushy ancient herb has been used to treat myriad maladies since antiquity, and its application in modern medicine can be traced back to the 19th century. For those suffering from an underactive or overactive thyroid, this vibrant yellow-orange root packs a powerful punch of potential health benefits. The active curcuminoids found in turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing inflammation associated with many diseases, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. These compounds also improve digestive function, which helps support a healthy metabolism, which is vital for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
Research continues to show promise regarding other supportive effects, such as regulating hormones and supporting detoxification pathways within the body. Turmeric’s bright hue offers more than just visual appeal; studies have revealed its ability to help balance blood sugar levels and reduce risk factors for heart disease, both common conditions related to thyroid disorders.
The thyroid gland plays a very important role in your whole body system. As such, you should discuss it with your doctor.
Dosage, Side Effects, And Potential Risks
Having discussed the health benefits of turmeric for thyroid disorders, it’s important to understand how much turmeric to take and what potential risks or side effects may be associated with its use.
When taking turmeric as a supplement, it is recommended that you start with a small dose of 500 milligrams once per day and slowly increase this dosage over time if necessary. Otherwise, you should stick to the manufacturer’s recommended dosage. You should always speak to your doctor first before attempting any dietary changes or new supplements. It is also wise to check for any interactions between turmeric and other medications you are using.
Generally speaking, there don’t appear to be any serious adverse side effects from taking turmeric in therapeutic doses. The most commonly reported side effect is gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or an upset stomach.
If diarrhea or other severe symptoms occur after taking turmeric, discontinue use immediately and consult a medical professional. In rare cases, long-term use of high dosages has been linked to liver damage, so extreme caution should be taken when considering high-dose supplementation for extended periods.
Overall, while considered safe for healthy individuals in moderate amounts, anyone considering adding this spice to their diet should do thorough research and speak with their physician before beginning supplementation. It is not advisable to use thyroid medication and turmeric without your doctor’s advice.
How To Incorporate Turmeric Into Your Diet
Turmeric is a powerful spice with many health benefits, and it can be an effective way to help treat thyroid disorders. Incorporating this yellow root into your diet is easy and tasty. Start by adding turmeric to dishes when cooking. It adds great flavor and color to curries, soups, stir-fries, salads, smoothies, eggs, and more! You don’t need much; just a pinch or two can go a long way in terms of flavor.
Did you know that you can also drink turmeric? It can be taken as a hot beverage tea known as golden tea. The term golden tea is derived from the color of a mixture of milk, turmeric, and water when cooking tea.
Alternatively, you could take turmeric supplements if you prefer not to add it to your food. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking any supplement, as the recommended dosage for each person varies depending on their individual needs. You should also consider eating foods that are high in healthy fats, like avocados and nuts since they have been found to increase the absorption of active ingredients from turmeric.
By making these adjustments to your daily routine, you may find relief from thyroid symptoms while simultaneously introducing beneficial nutrients into your body.
Natural Ways to Help Thyroid Disorders
There are other natural ways to help with thyroid disorders that you can consider.
Foods and Supplements:
They say you are what you eat. Taking the right types of food and the best ways can by itself be a preventive health care genius. Here are some examples
- If your thyroid is too active (hyperthyroidism), try eating, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, and other green veggies.
- Avoid foods like sugar, dairy, wheat, caffeine, and alcohol. They might not be good for your thyroid.
- Some oils like blackseed, flaxseed, fish, and borage oils are helpful because they reduce inflammation in your body.
- Vitamin D is important for your thyroid too. If you don’t get enough sunlight, talk to your doctor about taking a Vitamin D supplement.
Herbs
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- Some herbs can help if you have an overactive thyroid. Bugleweed and lemon balm might be useful, but we need more studies in this area.
- Motherwort can help with a fast heartbeat but should be avoided when taking certain medications or if you’re pregnant.
- Turmeric is good, but be aware of some side effects
- Avoid ashwagandha and bladderwrack if you have an overactive thyroid.
Pro Tip: Do not stop taking thyroid prescriptions unless advised by your doctor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I believe turmeric could be a beneficial supplement for those suffering from thyroid disorders. It has numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant properties that may help reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Additionally, it is relatively safe with few side effects when taken in reasonable dosages. Finally, incorporating turmeric into one’s diet can easily be done by adding ground or fresh turmeric root to meals, drinks, smoothies, and more!
For anyone considering taking advantage of the potential health benefits of turmeric for their thyroid disorder, consulting a doctor first would be wise.
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