Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. This can lead to symptoms like unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, nervousness, and irritability. While hyperthyroidism is often treated with medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine, there are also some natural ways to help manage the condition.
What causes hyperthyroidism?
There are several potential causes of hyperthyroidism:
- Graves’ disease – An autoimmune disorder in which antibodies overstimulate the thyroid
- Thyroid nodules – Lumps or tumors on the thyroid that may overproduce thyroid hormone
- Thyroiditis – Inflammation of the thyroid gland
- Overconsumption of iodine supplements
- Pituitary gland malfunction
Finding and treating the underlying cause, rather than just the symptoms, is important for addressing hyperthyroidism long-term.
Natural remedies for hyperthyroidism
While not a substitute for conventional treatment, some natural remedies may help manage hyperthyroid symptoms. Talk to your doctor before trying any of these options.
1. Modify your diet
Certain dietary changes may help improve thyroid function:
- Go gluten-free – Gluten can trigger autoimmune reactions and inflammation, worsening Graves’ disease. Try eliminating bread, pasta, cereals, and other gluten sources.
- Increase fiber – A high fiber diet can reduce thyroid hormone levels in the bloodstream. Get fiber from fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and whole grains.
- Limit iodine – Too much iodine can aggravate hyperthyroidism. Avoid iodized salt, seaweed, fish, and other high iodine foods.
- Cut back on stimulants – Caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, sugar, and refined carbs may worsen thyroid symptoms.
2. Increase key nutrients
Making sure to get enough of the following nutrients may support thyroid health:
- Selenium – This mineral is needed for proper thyroid hormone production. Brazil nuts, eggs, and mushrooms are good sources.
- Zinc – Zinc is required for regulating thyroid hormones. Include zinc-rich foods like oysters, cashews, liver and yogurt.
- Vitamin B12 – B12 deficiency is linked to hyperthyroid-related symptoms. Take a supplement or eat B12-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy.
- Vitamin D – Autoimmune thyroid diseases like Graves’ have been associated with low vitamin D levels. Get vitamin D from sunlight, fortified dairy and supplements.
3. Increase antioxidants
Antioxidants can help neutralize damaging free radicals and reduce inflammation in the thyroid.
- Vitamin C – Found in citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, and broccoli. Aim for at least 500 mg daily.
- Vitamin E – Get vitamin E from nuts, seeds, olive oil, spinach, and avocados. Take 400 IU daily.
- N-acetyl cysteine – This powerful antioxidant supplement has been shown to improve thyroid health.
- Turmeric – Contains the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin. Take a 400-600 mg curcumin supplement up to 3 times daily.
4. Address chronic stress
High levels of chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid function in various ways. Try these tips for managing stress:
- Get regular exercise – Aim for 30+ minutes of activity most days.
- Practice relaxation techniques – Try yoga, deep breathing, meditation, massage.
- Get enough sleep – Shoot for 7-8 hours per night.
- Engage in hobbies – Distract yourself with enjoyable activities.
- Consider therapy – Talk to a counselor or join a support group.
5. Use essential oils
Some essential oils may help balance thyroid hormones, reduce inflammation, and relieve related symptoms like anxiety. Examples include:
- Coconut oil – Contains medium chain fatty acids that support metabolism. Use 2-4 tablespoons daily in cooking or smoothies.
- Myrrh – Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Rub several drops on the thyroid area twice daily.
- Lemongrass – May block thyroid hormone production. Inhale lemongrass oil directly or use in a warm compress.
- Ashwagandha – An adaptogenic herb that helps moderate stress hormones. Take 500 mg capsules 1-2 times daily.
Lifestyle changes for hyperthyroidism
In addition to natural remedies, making certain lifestyle adjustments can help keep hyperthyroid symptoms under control:
Exercise regularly
Getting regular moderate exercise may help regulate thyroid hormone levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days. Walking, swimming, yoga, and strength training are excellent options.
Keep stress in check
Chronic stress takes a toll on the adrenal glands, which can disrupt thyroid function. Employ relaxation techniques, get emotional support, and take time for enjoyable hobbies to manage stress.
Achieve proper sleep
Going to bed and waking up at consistent times helps maintain the body’s circadian rhythms and promotes restful sleep, which is healing for the thyroid. Stick to a regular sleep schedule and wind down before bedtime.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of purified water throughout the day. Proper hydration is vital for nutrient absorption, energy levels, and metabolic function. Herbal tea and fresh vegetable juices are healthy options too.
Quit smoking
Cigarette smoking exacerbates Graves’ disease and thyroid problems. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke is recommended to protect thyroid health.
Natural hyperthyroidism treatment options
In addition to lifestyle measures, several integrative medicine therapies may help treat hyperthyroidism:
Traditional Chinese medicine
TCM approaches like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary therapy aim to balance energy in the body to optimize thyroid function. A qualified TCM practitioner can provide individualized treatment.
Chiropractic
Spinal manipulation and neck massage may enhance thyroid functioning by improving nerve supply. See a chiropractor who specializes in thyroid treatments.
Reflexology
Applying pressure to reflex points on the hands and feet corresponding to the thyroid gland and endocrine system can help regulate hormones.
Yoga and massage
Gentle yoga postures help stretch the neck area and relieve muscle tension that can compress the thyroid. Lymphatic drainage massage clears congestion around the gland.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback utilizes relaxation, visualization, deep breathing, and mindfulness to gain voluntary control over involuntary bodily processes like metabolism and heart rate that are overactive in hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid-friendly foods to include in your diet
Adjusting your eating habits can aid in controlling hyperthyroidism. Here are some of the best foods to include in your diet:
| Food | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Omega-3 fats | Salmon, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts. Reduce inflammation. |
| Cruciferous veggies | Broccoli, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts. Improve hormone excretion. |
| Probiotics | Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, kombucha. Benefit thyroid-related autoimmunity. |
| Herbal teas | Green tea, dandelion, stinging nettle. Soothe thyroid irritation. |
| Fresh fruits and veggies | Blueberries, squash, spinach. Provide antioxidants. |
| Bone broth | Rich in glycine to balance hormones. |
Foods to avoid with hyperthyroidism
On the other hand, there are certain foods it is best to limit or avoid altogether:
| Food | Effects |
|---|---|
| Soy | Contains compounds that inhibit thyroid function. |
| Gluten | Can trigger autoimmune response. |
| Caffeine | Overstimulates the thyroid. |
| Refined carbs | Spikes blood sugar, which stresses the thyroid. |
| Alcohol | Interferes with hormone synthesis. |
| Processed foods | Often contain hydrogenated oil, additives, and sugar that burden the thyroid. |
Hyperthyroidism meal plan
Making dietary changes is one of the most effective natural ways to manage hyperthyroidism. Here is a sample meal plan:
Monday
- Breakfast: Gluten-free oatmeal with chia seeds, banana, almond milk. Green tea.
- Lunch: Turkey burger on gluten-free bun with avocado and veggies. Miso soup.
- Dinner: Baked salmon with kale and sweet potato. Herbal tea.
Tuesday
- Breakfast: Veggie omelet with spinach, tomatoes, onions. Berry smoothie.
- Lunch: Lentil soup. Mixed greens salad with chickpeas and olive oil dressing.
- Dinner: Chicken coconut curry with cauliflower rice. Chamomile tea.
Wednesday
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt with walnuts, cinnamon, and apple. Green tea.
- Lunch: Grilled chicken sandwich on gluten-free bread with lettuce, salsa, avocado.
- Dinner: Veggie stir fry with tofu, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms. Herbal tea.
Thursday
- Breakfast: Nut granola with almond milk and berries. Dandelion tea.
- Lunch: Turmeric chickpea salad sandwich. Fruit smoothie.
- Dinner: Turkey meatballs with zucchini noodles and marinara sauce. Chamomile tea.
Friday
- Breakfast: Vegetable omelet with kale, onion, sweet potato. Green tea.
- Lunch: Tuna salad stuffed in a baked sweet potato. Miso soup.
- Dinner: Sheet pan salmon with Brussels sprouts and squash. Herbal tea.
Supplements for hyperthyroidism
In addition to dietary changes, certain supplements may help optimize thyroid function by providing essential nutrients and reducing inflammation. Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements.
| Supplement | Dosage | Potential benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D | 2000-5000 IU daily | Anti-inflammatory, supports immune health |
| Selenium | 200 mcg daily | Required for T4 thyroid hormone conversion |
| Zinc | 30 mg daily | Thyroid hormone metabolism |
| Ashwagandha | 500 mg twice daily | Thyroid-balancing adaptogen |
| Omega-3s | 1-2 grams daily | Reduces inflammation |
| Probiotics | 50+ billion CFUs daily | Gut microbiome support |
Conclusion
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive. Typical medical treatments like radioactive iodine and thyroid surgery can cause permanent hypothyroidism. There are many natural ways to manage hyperthyroidism, including eating a thyroid-friendly diet, increasing key nutrients, reducing stress, and trying complementary therapies.
While natural remedies should not replace conventional treatment, they can be extremely helpful for supporting thyroid health, reducing symptoms, avoiding immune system dysfunction, and minimizing medication side effects. Work with your healthcare provider to find the optimal combination of medical and natural therapies to get your hyperthyroidism under control and feel your best.