Improve Your Thyroid Function Naturally
Good thyroid function is very important. Your thyroid is a relatively small gland located in your throat, at the front right side of your neck. It also resembles a butterfly in shape.
The main job of this gland is to regulate hormonal, metabolic and growth processes. To this end, the thyroid gland contains a protein that is also called thyroglobulin. This protein works together with iodine to stimulate the secretion of hormones so that your organs, tissues and cells function optimally.
In addition, this gland contributes to the synthesis of proteins, cellular oxygenation and other important tasks that keep your health optimal.
As with other organs, the thyroid is also exposed to various factors that can cause the gland to become out of balance. And this can of course also affect the functioning of this gland.
Protect your thyroid
When the functioning of the thyroid gland becomes compromised, it not only causes a series of changes in the body, but over time can lead to serious conditions.
That’s why you should always do your best to protect your thyroid. For example, by providing the organ with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
In this article we share six habits that you can teach yourself to improve your thyroid function naturally.
1. Include iodine in your diet
Finally, an iodine deficiency is the main cause of hypothyroidism, or a lack of thyroid hormones. Your body cannot make this nutrient itself, so it’s important to make sure you get enough iodine through the food you consume.
These are a few foods that contain this nutrient:
- Eggs
- shellfish
- Fatty fish
- Cheese
- table salt
However, in the case of table salt, it is important to consume only moderate amounts, as excess salt can cause other problems.
2. Consume More Selenium
Selenium is one of the essential minerals that can positively influence treatments for thyroid disorders. It seems indispensable for proper thyroid function.
This element helps to maintain stress and promotes the natural detoxification process. It can also help regulate hormonal activity. In addition, the proteins that make up selenium can help control metabolism and the mechanisms responsible for converting food into energy.
To illustrate, here are a few natural sources that contain selenium:
- nuts
- Flaxseed and sunflower seeds
- Eggs
- Yogurt
- mushrooms
3. Increase your zinc intake for proper thyroid function
Low zinc levels may be associated with the development of the two main thyroid disorders: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid imbalances, whether caused by excess or deficiency of hormones, cause a series of negative reactions throughout the body.
This essential mineral can be found naturally in many foods. However, you can also take zinc in the form of a supplement.
In summary, the main sources of zinc are:
- Lean meat
- oysters
- Pork
- Chicken
- Spinach
- Seeds and nuts
- Chocolate
- walnuts
4. Don’t forget magnesium
Magnesium is also a very important mineral that can ensure that the thyroid gland continues to function optimally. Magnesium also plays an important role in many other bodily systems, but unfortunately it is also difficult to absorb by the body.
Your body needs to convert iodine into thyroid hormones. Therefore, magnesium is essential to prevent all kinds of complications.
You can ingest magnesium through topical means, but it can also be found in foods such as:
- sweet corn
- Avocado
- bananas
- Spinach
- raisins
5. Consume Coconut Oil
In addition, taking one or two tablespoons of coconut oil daily can also be extremely helpful in improving the functioning of the thyroid gland. The medium-long fatty acid chains that this oil contains can support the metabolism.
In addition, coconut oil is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and is therefore a good means of counteracting a disrupted thyroid gland.
While more research is needed to prove the impact coconut oil has on the body, some experts indicate that when included in your diet, this oil can serve as a good adjunct to thyroid treatments.
6. Avoid Stress
Finally, continuous exposure to stressful situations can also be an important factor in the development of thyroid problems. At first it may only seem to affect your mood.
However, over time, stress triggers a series of chemical reactions that also negatively affect your health.
This is because it causes the body to produce more cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that prevents the thyroid hormones from accessing your body cells.
Worried about your thyroid function?
Are you concerned about your thyroid function? Then make these habits a regular part of your daily life. And don’t forget to visit your doctor regularly to have more targeted tests performed.
