Try Natural Solutions for Thyroid Imbalance

Thyroid conditions affect about 200 million people worldwide, including 20 million in the United States. Women are 5 to 8 times more likely than men to develop a thyroid condition. Additional contributing factors may include radiation exposure, pernicious anemia, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, Addison’s disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome.

The thyroid is a delicate, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland with an important role. It produces thyroid hormones that help provide energy to every cell in the body and regulate metabolism—the process that converts food into energy. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, hormone imbalances can affect many body systems.

The two main types of thyroid disease are hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, and hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid. Because thyroid symptoms can resemble those of other conditions or normal life-stage changes, it may be difficult to know whether they are thyroid-related. Without treatment, however, thyroid disorders can significantly affect quality of life.

Lifestyle changes, including diet and herbal support, may be helpful as part of a thyroid treatment plan. However, if you experience symptoms of a thyroid condition, consult a doctor or qualified healthcare professional to review your medical history, complete appropriate testing, and discuss any medications you are taking.

The following herbal formulas may offer support:

Click each link to learn more about the formula and any contraindications.

Parathyroid Support is designed to support and strengthen the parathyroid, especially when it is overactive. Ingredients include dandelion leaf, chaste tree berry, turmeric, and poke root.

Adrenal Support is a Dr. Christopher original formula that helps balance the adrenal glands and support the heart during times of stress. Ingredients include mullein, lobelia, Siberian ginseng, gotu kola, ginger, and cayenne.

Thyroid Love Support contains ingredients intended to help balance thyroid levels, including ashwagandha, bladderwrack, schizandra berry, nettle leaf, eleuthero root, licorice root, lemon balm, plantain, and lobelia.

Cholesterol Support includes Flor de Manita, an herb traditionally used for nervousness, headaches, insomnia, depression, dizziness, pain, inflammation, ulcers, eye inflammation, piles, and heart support. It has also been used to reduce water retention and cholesterol and may support cardiovascular health by helping cleanse the arteries.

Fenugreek may support hormone production and the development of mammary glands influenced by estrogen. Research suggests fenugreek seeds may help inhibit liver cancer, lower blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and provide anti-diabetic effects.

The symptoms below may indicate an underactive thyroid first, followed by signs of an overactive thyroid.

Common Symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid

• Joint or muscle aches
• Thinning hair
• Brittle nails
• Constipation
• Brain fog
• Dry skin
• Trouble sleeping
• Fatigue
• Changes in heart rate
• Unexplained weight gain
• Cold sensitivity
• Depression
• Heavy menstrual periods

Possible Causes of an Underactive Thyroid

Hashimoto’s disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition that can cause an underactive thyroid.

Iodine deficiency occurs when the diet does not provide enough iodine. It can lead to hypothyroidism and may cause a goiter to develop on the thyroid.

Congenital hypothyroidism can occur when babies are born with a missing or underactive thyroid. Its overall incidence ranges from 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 4,000 live births, with variations worldwide among different ethnicities.

Common Symptoms of an Overactive Thyroid

• Difficulty sleeping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Heat sensitivity
• Clammy or sweaty skin
• Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness
• Irregular or absent periods

Possible Causes of an Overactive Thyroid

Graves’ disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes an overactive thyroid and is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid nodules are abnormal lumps on the thyroid gland. If they become hyperfunctioning, they can lead to hyperthyroidism.

Excessive iodine can cause the thyroid to produce more hormones than the body needs. Certain medications, such as the heart medication amiodarone, may contribute to excessive iodine levels.

Conditions That Can Cause Either Thyroid Imbalance

Thyroiditis is inflammation, or swelling, of the thyroid gland. It often causes temporary hyperthyroidism at first, followed by temporary or chronic hypothyroidism.

Postpartum thyroiditis is a rare condition that can affect women after giving birth. An estimated 5% of women may experience it within the first year postpartum. It usually begins with hyperthyroidism, followed by hypothyroidism, and is often temporary.