Hyper and hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland, which is responsible for cell metabolism in our body, helps regulate nervous system functions, has an impact on the cardiovascular system, makes it easier for your bones to absorb calcium, and boosts the activity of the adrenal glands. It also plays an important role in managing stress.
Hyper or hypo?
When your thyroid secretes an unusually low quantity of hormones, the resulting condition is called hypothyroidism. Conversely, when hormone production is too high, the resulting condition is known as hyperthyroidism.
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What are the symptoms?
| Hypothyroidism |
Hyperthyroidism |
| Fatigue, an increased need to sleep |
Nervousness |
| Lack of initiative |
Trembling |
| Weight gain |
Insomnia |
| Low resistance to infections |
Heart palpitations |
| Sensitivity to the cold |
Excessive sweating |
| Dry, pale skin |
Increased appetite |
| Brittle nails |
Weight loss |
| Hair loss |
Changes in the menstrual cycle |
| Changes in the menstrual cycle |
Prominently bulbous eyes |
| Constipation |
Diarrhea |
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Hyperthyroidism
While stress is an important factor in hyperthyroidism, it’s not the only one: the autoimmune system can also come into play by producing antibodies that work against the thyroid.
Slow-onset food allergies can also contribute to hyperthyroidism. They are often difficult to screen for, so the only way to potentially improve the situation is to avoid highly allergenic foods for at least a month. The most common culprits are dairy products, wheat, chocolate, coffee, tea and alcohol.
While some people react to cigarette smoke, others are hypersensitive to the mercury contained in dental amalgam (fillings). Women are the most likely to encounter hyperthyroidism, with many cases of the condition arising during periods of change, such as adolescence, pregnancy and menopause.
What to do?
The first supplement to consider in cases of hyperthyroidism is A.Vogel’s Vital Energy. This product helps calm the body’s stress reservoirs – the adrenal glands, the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus – and, in so doing, has a soothing effect on the other glands. One of the product’s ingredients, Avena sativa, better known as the common oat , works like a tranquilizer for the thyroid. In order for the thyroid to calm down, it needs to be nourished with a daily dose of iodine. But be careful not to overdo it, or else you’ll end up with the opposite result.
A.Vogel’s Stinging Nettle is also advised in cases of hyperthyroidism, due to the product’s action on calcium metabolism. Evening primrose oil (500 mg, 3 times daily) contains essential fatty acids that can help reduce the inflammatory processes caused by certain autoimmune disorders.
And last but not least, Bio-Strath helps lower the risk of dietary deficiencies due to increased metabolism, while having a calming effect on a compromised nervous system (nervousness, insomnia, anxiety, trembling, heart palpitations and exhaustion).
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Hypothyroidism
Because of the close link between the ovaries and the thyroid, problems with this gland are at the root of reproductive cycle problems—heavier or lighter menstruation, combined with a shorter cycle. By attempting to activate the thyroid, the body can cause the onset of goitre, which is when the thyroid becomes enlarged.
Even mild hypothyroidism can affect physical and mental development in children. In the elderly, the condition is often confused with depression or age-related fatigue. Main causes of hypothyroidism:
- Hormonal changes during menopause or pregnancy
- Lack of dietary iodine, especially in populations living far from the ocean
- Vitamin- and mineral-deficient diet
- Lack of exercise, as physical activity stimulates metabolism and hence, the thyroid
What to do?
For people with hypothyroidism, the recommended treatment is to take A.Vogel’s Thyroid Support – Kelpasan to feed the thyroid. Unlike dried seaweed supplements, Kelpasan’s iodine content is standardized, thereby providing a consistent dose. Start slowly by taking one tablet each morning for at least a week, then two a day the following week, and finally three a day (maximum).
When it comes to treating the thyroid, slow is better, as it tends to react negatively to sudden changes. Do not take A.Vogel’s Thyroid Support if you are currently taking Synthroid®.
If you are, opt for A.Vogel’s Vital Energy to eliminate stress in the glandular system and in the thyroid gland in particular. By taking Thyroid Support, you will find that the thyroid reacts better to Synthroid®.
Vitamins E and A, as well as zinc, iodine and calcium, are essential to thyroid health. A poorly functioning thyroid affects your body’s ability to metabolize vitamin A and prevents the beta carotene in fruits and vegetables from being converted into vitamin A in the body.
Exercise stimulates the production of hormones in the thyroid and increases tissues’ sensitivity to the hormones, thereby increasing their effectiveness. Interestingly, singing and reciting mantras actually serves to “massage” and therefore relax the thyroid gland, which surrounds the vocal chords.
Lastly, keep in mind that lack of sunlight has an impact on thyroid activity, which explains why the thyroid is less active in winter than in summer.
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What changes can we make in our eating habits to help the thyroid?
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| Hypo |
Hyper |
| Choose |
|
| Seaweeds like nori and dulse, and uncontaminated saltwater seafood |
Fresh whole foods: Avoid the empty calories provided by refined foods, as proper absorption of nutrients is affected by the body’s metabolic rate |
| Cod liver oil, halibut liver oil |
Green foods |
| Lamb or beef liver |
Whole grains |
| Butter and cheese |
Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, rutabaga |
| Whole eggs |
Peaches and pears |
| Wheat germ |
Soy and spinach |
| Nuts, raw pumpkin seeds (unroasted, unsalted) |
Raw fruits and vegetables |
| Beets and carrots |
|
| Parsley and watercress |
|
| Grey sea salt |
|
| Enjoy in moderation… |
|
| Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, rutabaga |
|
| Peaches and pears |
|
| Soy and spinach |
|
| Avoid… |
|
| Chlorinated or fluoridated water: These substances block the thyroid’s iodine receptors, thereby affecting thyroid hormone production |
Iodized salt |
|
Stimulants, such as coffee, tea and soft drinks |
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