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Achieving Thyroid Balance with Natural Remedies and Nutrition

| Modified on Sep 18, 2024
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Treatments for thyroid problems are all about achieving balance; hyperthyroidism (over-active) and hypothyroidism (under-active) each have their own challenges. A crucial part of any home treatment is proper diet. The thyroid cannot do its job without getting the right fuel. Exercise is also essential for achieving and maintaining proper thyroid function. In addition, certain supplements like Guggulsterone can be used as natural thyroid aid.

What Does the Thyroid Gland Do?

The thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, has an influence on almost every metabolic process. Hyperthyroidism refers to too much thyroid hormone being produced. Hypothyroidism means not enough thyroid hormone is secreted. The thyroid cannot make necessary hormones without iodine. Iodine is also needed to process medications. Thyroid problems range from a harmless goiter (an enlarged gland) to thyroid cancer. Regulating a malfunctioning thyroid can be incredibly frustrating; there are numerous and varying side effects.

The thyroid helps regulate the metabolism: all of the chemical reactions needed to maintain the living state of cells. There are two types of metabolism. Catabolism is molecules breaking down to get energy. Anabolism means building all the compounds that cells need. Proper nutrition ensures that the necessary nutrients are available for use by the cells.

The thyroid also helps to regulate calcium. Calcium is needed by almost every cell, particularly in the nervous system, heart, muscles and bones. The hormone calcitonin and the parathyroid manage calcium levels. Other hormones secreted by the thyroid produce proteins and increase oxygen in cells, which makes organs work harder.

To summarize, the thyroid is the “Master Hormone” that helps our cells get energy and receive the ‘food’ the cells need, including calcium. The thyroid gland can be thought of as the conductor of an orchestra; when it isn’t working as it should, the ‘music’ is an off-key and off-pitch jangle of noise instead of a symphony.

Natural Remedies for the Thyroid

The thyroid performs many sophisticated tasks to keep our bodies working but it needs the right fuel. The best home treatment for the thyroid is good nutrition. Some foods that supply iodine and some that block iodine from the thyroid are listed below. Exercise and a natural thyroid booster are suggested as a treatment regimen.

Foods That Help the Thyroid Function Better

  • Seaweed (kelp, dulce and nori), shellfish and ocean fish are excellent sources of iodine.
  • Low fat cheese, yogurt and ice cream, eggs and cow’s milk are also good sources.

Many people do not receive enough iodine from their diet. We used to get 25% of our iodine from wheat, but a change in how the flour is produced has removed that iodine source from our diet. Iodine was added to salt in 1924 to help prevent so many people from developing goiters and was generally successful. We need at least 150 mcg daily. The average iodine intake per person in the U.S. used to be 250 mcg; it is now 157 mcg. While sea salt has traces of many minerals, it does not have as much iodine as iodized table salt. If you suspect you need more iodine, iodized sea salt is a good option.

Foods That Slow Your Thyroid

These foods are called ‘goitrogens’ and lower thyroid function, preventing the thyroid from producing thyroid hormone properly. The anti-thyroid properties are strongest when eaten raw. It is believed that this anti-thyroid property is inactivated by cooking, but anyone with hypothyroidism should eat these foods sparingly, if at all.

  • Nuts: almonds, pine nuts, peanuts
  • Any vegetable in the broccoli family: broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage
  • Green leafy vegetables: kale, mustard and spinach
  • Fruit: pears and peaches
  • Misc.: Turnips, corn, millet, soy (isoflavones block iodine) and canola oil

Exercise and Supplements

Walking or working out for 40 minutes at least three times a week is highly recommended to keep the thyroid functioning well. Exercising every day is good for an underactive thyroid.

Guggulsterone or guggulipid is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a natural remedy to regulate the thyroid. This is particularly useful for hypothyroidism. A high-quality multivitamin with high levels of vitamins B, D, E, and C, iodine, selenium, and zinc is also helpful.

Other Natural Remedies

In addition to the natural remedies mentioned above, here are some other natural remedies that can be beneficial for thyroid health:

  • Ashwagandha: This herb has been shown to improve thyroid function by reducing cortisol levels and balancing thyroid hormone levels.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats found in fish and flaxseed oil can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to thyroid dysfunction.
  • Selenium: This mineral is essential for thyroid function and can be found in Brazil nuts, seafood, and meat.
  • Vitamin D: This vitamin is crucial for immune system function and can be found in fatty fish, eggs, and fortified dairy products.
  • Adaptogenic Herbs: These herbs, such as Rhodiola rosea and Eleutherococcus senticosus, can help support the adrenal glands and reduce stress levels, contributing to thyroid dysfunction.

Remember to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage thyroid problems. While natural remedies can be helpful, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper supplementation can all help support thyroid health and improve overall well-being.

Continue reading below to learn which remedies helped Earth Clinic readers with thyroid issues.

Related Links:

Hyperthyroidism Treatment and Remedies
Hypothyroid Remedies
Well-Researched Natural Remedies for Thyroid Cancer

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Apple Cider Vinegar

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Posted by G (Sydney) on 08/04/2016
 ★☆☆☆☆

ACV did absolutely nothing for the Graves Disease/Hyperthyroidism I was suffering. Only 15ml of Borax solution in a glass of water, 4 times time a day (minimum) settled it right down, reduced my once perpetually swollen thyroid back down to normal size and allows me to sleep at least once every 24 hours (instead of going up to 4 straight days without sleep).

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Lorna (Rotorua, New Zealand) on 05/14/2011

Dear Ted

I am just wondering if the ACV therapy would help with my hypthyroidism and thyroid eye disease? I was diagnosed with being hypthyroid in 2009, and having the eye disease in 2010. Have had the eye problem now for 13 months, and there is protrusion of the eyes. I am always on the lookout for anything that can help me. Have just come off prednisone after 8 months and symptons are returning. My doctor says I have high antibodies which are attacking my own eye tissue, and that it will eventually resolve itself within 2 years. I hope that to be the case too! Adding to all my problems I'm also perimenopausal. I would appreciate your response. Thankyou!

Replied by Marlane
(Geelong, Victoria, Australia)
05/15/2011

Hi Lorna,

You didnt say whether you had Hyper or Hypothyroidism. The research I have done on thyroidism points to high levels of copper and low levels of zinc for hypo (hashimotos disease) and low copper and high zinc for hyper (Graves disease). I was diagnosed with Graves disease at Rotorua hospital. Hypers must avoid anything related to the brassica family, cabbage, brussels sprouts etc. And up their level of copper rich food. Hypo's, the opposite. I have found that ACV has no effect on my thyroid whatsoever. Try iThyroid.com for more info,

cheers Marlane E

Pam E.
(Southern California)
11/12/2020
148 posts

Your comment suggests that hypo/low thyroid is equivalent to Hashimoto's ... but ... it is not. Also, while it is an autoimmune disorder that can *cause* hypothyroidism, it is *not* the only cause. (For example, I have hypothyroidism that was caused by medication that is known to cause it.)

Replied by Prosperity
(Tampa, Fl)
05/15/2011

I went through the same thing. I use lemon balm, Bugle weed and a green supplement. I meditated and confessed the word of God. I would close my eyes and focus on the muscles in the back my eyes to pull my eye back in.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Mariana (Tauranga, New Zealand) on 01/05/2008
 ★★★★★

I am on Thyroxin for an underactive thyroid gland. But, I still have this horrible feeling of mucous in my throat that effects speech. I have gone back to drinking cider vinegar, 2 or 3 times a day and now i feel so much better and the is no feeling of mucous in the throat. Its natural and it wonderful

Replied by Debby
(Monroe, Ct)
08/22/2011

Hi, I read your post and I hope you receive this. I also experenced mucus in my throat, had throat pain at times, and my speech was affected. I was on medication for underactive thyroid. I kept going to Doctors for 10 years and no one ever mentioned the simplest test, thyroid untrasound. Long story short, thyroid cancer, stage 3. So please if you have symptoms get this checked.

Replied by Brenda
(Fayetteville, North Carolina)
06/10/2012

Wow, I am going through this but had no idea it had anything to do with my thyroid. I am hypo and been on Synthroid for about 20 yrs. Wish I could find a natural way as I have a lot of complications from Synthroid.

Adrienne
(Id)
10/17/2018

Me, too, nausea and fatigue, sometimes to the point of staggering after eating. I quit it cold turkey two days ago and already feel better. I have ordered a thyroid glandular from a company called Ancestral Supplements that sources from New Zealand cattle. I'll try to remember to comment on my results after I've been on it for a couple of months or so.

Adrienne
(Idaho)
02/16/2023

Ha, I just read this while looking for low thyroid suggestions. I said I would update and apparently forgot for several years...probably my low thyroid. :-) Well, what I'm doing now is Armour thyroid which seems to have no side effects. Yay! But, my doctor started me on only 15 mgs, she's cautious, and is gradually increasing the amount. I'm up to 45 and still have to keep the kitchen at 75 degrees, and often have cold hands. However, I read online in more than one place that we can take Armour under the tongue so it bypasses the stomach. I've been doing it that way, and we'll see. I tried calling the Armour company about doing their thyroid sublingually, but they didn't know. The lady said I'd have to ask my doctor...who's really a nurse practitioner which I have come to prefer. One more thing, I now have pancreatic insufficiency which can be caused by low thyroid! So, I'm getting serious about taking my thyroid supplements, bladderwrack, guggul, tyrosine, etc.

Replied by Becca
(Abilene, Tx)
01/29/2014

Thru all of my reading and research about thyroid issues...both holistically and medical clinical trials, you should never treat the thyroid without also treating your adrenals with a good supplement. The two organs work hand in hand. Also, if you are iodine deficient, it doesn't matter how much medicine you take, your thyroid won't be able to process it. However, if you take blood pressure meds and want to supplement with iodine, make sure to take an iodine that does NOT contain potassium iodides as this will cause a potassium buildup in your body that the kidneys cannot excrete fast enough. Getting your thyroid and adrenals balanced can be a long and difficult process, but 14 months into this and the knowledge that I have gained...I have hopes that I am finally getting there. From what I know now and what I knew one year ago when a doctor put me on thyroid medication that led to a hyperthyroid state..is a world of difference. I have quit the specialist and gone back to my family doctor that is working with me to get to a healthy state. I know now when I look at the tests taken one year ago, I did not need meds...I needed supplements to rebuild my thyroid and adrenals that became depleted from the shingles and chronic stress that I had been under the year before. I was vitamin D deficient and B 12 deficient. I was also low on female hormones, but after being on bio identical hormones for 13 years, my body was trying to tell me that I had had enough...that was part of the reason that my thyroid was sluggish. By the way, I no longer take the hormones. My advice is to know and listen to your body....you are the only you that you have but one of many patients that your doctor has. They don't have the time to research and figure out how to address the root of your health issues only treat the symptoms. I have taken what I have learned from others on here and spent countless hours reading clinical studies to develop my own regime. I have a very analytical mind and research how all of the supplements interact with each other and in the body. Wishing you good luck and good health!

Replied by Grace
(Eugene, Or)
10/01/2014

Becca - not sure if you are still on this thread, but I am experiencing hyperthyroidism as well and know that I want to begin treatment in a method similar to yours. Can you share any other resources or clinical studies? Thanks, Grace

Replied by Kelly
(Georgia)
04/13/2016

I'm hypo as well. I'm taking a natural prescription called Naturethroid. I've had great results with it. You have to search around for a doctor who's willing to prescribe it. I had to find one who is primarily a holistic doctor that is also an MD.

Replied by Sharon
(Madera, Ca)
02/09/2017

I too have had thyroid issues. Before I share my own experience I have a question regarding going off the bio-identical hormone. You mentioned your body had been low on female hormones, adding to the thyroid issue, but then you went off of them. Are you not taking any female hormones? If so, what are you doing to address the issue of low hormones in your body?

I was diagnosed 10 years ago with an auto-immune issue. Dr's said that my own body was attacking my hearing and my thyroid. However doctors did not agree regarding hypo or hyper. The research doctor at UCSF thought the opposite of the specialist here in Fresno, CA. UCSF doctor read "in-between" the lines in the reports, after much blood work. Bottom line is, neither helped me. I couldn't stay on the medications I was given. Stomach issues, hair falling out--and didn't help. I had been on 60 mg of Prednisone for my hearing issue for 6 months. (Hearing levels went down along with all sounds distorted). Doctor tried to wean me after 30 days and hearing issue came back, so just kept me on it, while it was causing harm to my body. After 6 mos I weaned myself from the Prednisone and until last August had no more issue with my hearing. Tried Prednisone again for 30 days, tired off but didn't help. Lots of prayer and trusting in my Savior and Creator to heal my hearing, along with eating properly.

Back to my thyroid. I have mid to low energy, my hair is thinning big time. Comes out in the shower every time I wash it. I have decided to treat for hypo thyroid issues. I am taking kelp supplements to get iodine levels up. (10 years ago specialists told me to stay off of salt and caffeine, that it appeared to trigger my hearing issue), so no iodine for years, other than what was in my food intake. Also taking vitamins A, D, E, a good supplement with zinc, magnesium, etc. So, I know I have issues with my thyroid and will not go to another specialist to go through what I went through 1o years ago. I know I cannot ignore it any longer. I have always taken a good multi vitamin, but only recently taking kelp supplement. Read that I should always cook my broccoli, cabbage, etc, before eating. Any suggestions? Loved for my hair to thicken up.

Replied by Frances
(Cabarlah, Qld.)
02/11/2017

A naturopath suggested I use a supplement with Bladderwrack, a sea weed, for the hypothyroid; however, it is too slow to help. As I know I am iodine deficient, I started the Iodine treatment protocol as mentioned on Earth Clinic.

Replied by Margaret
(Houston)
05/16/2018

I too suffer with Hypothyroidism. I take Levothyroxin once a day. I still have problems with being lethargic, with little energy. As for the loss of hair. My hairdresser recommended a shampoo especially addressing hair loss. Nioxin has been a life saver for me. My hair stopped falling out and is much thicker. I'm still reading on EC to find a better way to address the Hypothyroidism. Thank you Earth Clinic.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Tracy (Frederick, MD) on 11/14/2007
 ★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Have been using the ACV remedy for about 2 mos and notice the immediate difference in my skin and in my lack of joint pain (I suffer from Carpal Tunnel). However, I also started to notice that my skin was getting dry and I was constantly tired and kind of depressed. All symptoms that I had before I got my thyroid checked. I have hypothyroidism and take Levothyroxin once daily in the am. I had been starting my day with the thyroid pill, then my ACV tonic. WELL, I just read on the Medicine bottle to take this medicine at least 4 hours prior to any antacids, iron or vitamin/mineral suppliments. Basically, the ACV was just washing away my meds. So I adjusted my times and don't take the ACV til later and I'm back to my old self, with the added ACV bonus! SO, check you medicine labels!!!

Replied by Joyce
(Joelton, Tn)
11/16/2007
490 posts
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

To Tracy (11/14/07) from Frederick, Md. Try pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) l00mgm twice a day for that carpal tunnel that's giving you problems. You might also consider that if you're low on that one you probably are low on all the B complex vitamins, which may be contributing to your hypothyroid problem. I remember one lady who ran low normal range on her medication had to have her thyroid med discontinued for a couple of weeks and restart at 1/2 tablet, after her thyroid level returned above the normal range. She had gone from white bread to l00% whole wheat and had started taking a good stress tablet 4 times a day a month or so before her level went up. Oh, a welcome change was that her cholesterol level had gone down also.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Lana (Ormond, usa) on 11/13/2007
 ★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Ingesting ACV has long been used for medical treatment and is sometimes very effective.. HOWEVER, one should also take an iodine supplement, such as kelp tablets or kelp extracts while using this therapy. Extended ACV consumption can remove iodine from the body, and can result in thyroid problems. (Salt also causes the same problems which is why commercial salt has added iodine.) I learned all this back in the early 1970's, and have not found this important information on iodine/ACV interaction in any articles or books recently. However I have not covered your entire site. So in case no one has mentioned this yet, it really needs to be addressed.

Replied by CheeMiss
(Toronto, Canada)
01/29/2009

You must be right. For 1 yr., my mom (in her mid 80's) and I totally abstained from commercial iodized salt and only used a high quality, unprocessed (no iodine) sea salt with 80+ minerals stated on the package.

Towards the end of that year, (a couple of mths ago) her thyroid grew very large. Mine did not grow much, but we both ended up with hyperthyroidism and on meds. We both have separate doctors. Both doctors could not figure out what caused this condition and neither did we. We only supplemented with iodine drops or kelp now and then. I guess it was not enough to keep the thyroids in balance. I was suspicious that it might be the lack of iodine in the salt. Perhaps iodine should be in the salt after all. We are now sparingly using the sea salt w/o iodine and focusing on sea salt with iodine even though, it is processed.

Great point about ACV leeching out iodine. Pls. note that excessive consumption of raw cabbage (coleslaw) also does the same. That is why it is safer to eat less raw cabbage and more cooked, as cooking the cabbage neutralizes most of the leeching of iodine component. Even though raw cabbage is great for getting rid of fat in the abdomen area, don't over do it. That warning is found on the net, but you do have to search for it.

Thank you for bringing this to our attention, as I too have search and searched and did not find the info you posted. It sheds a lot of light on our situation. Thank You and God Bless.

Replied by Nichevy
(Atlanta, Ga, Usa)
08/02/2010

The same is true of broccoli. The excessive consumption of raw broccoli undermines thyroid functioning. It is safer to eat less raw broccoli (as found in smoothies) and more cooked, as cooking the broccoli neutralizes most of the leeching of iodine component. Even though broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber, and in its raw state, it's also a rich source of compounds known as glucosinolates which are broken down in the body to form sulforaphane -- moderation is key. Sulforaphane has been demonstrated in numerous studies to have potent anti-cancer properties, the reason why broccoli is touted as one of the best vegetables for cancer prevention. But don't over do it. This information is also available on the Web.

Replied by Msnatalie
(Fishers, Indiana)
06/14/2011

THANK YOU

A million years ago I read ACV depletes iodine, it's 2011, and can't find that straight up as an information footnote in general ACV praises. Stumbled across this, and I SAID I KNEW IT, I'M NOT CRAZY!!! Someone below stated they removed iodine from their diet, as did I, LOADED UP on cruciferous vegetables, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage, Broccoli; so Double Whammy! My weakened system, weakened thyroid allowed YEAST CANDIDA ALBICAN over growth. What a vicious cycle, in between 106 beats a minute, No MEDICAL INSURANCE...... I can barely live.

Replied by Vic
(Tavares, Florida)
02/08/2012

To Msnataie, I read your comment and immediately had to respond. I am very new to this site. I happen to find it when I got a nasty virus Sept. 2011 which erupted my nodular goiter and I've been sick ever since. It caused hyperthyroidism but I too for the first time in my life had lost my job resulting in no insurance. What a nightmare!!

I have candida that I have been battling since the 80's but other than that I have been ok. I'm 55 but have been told I look very good for my age but it's only because I'm thin. I was 135 pounds and then I got sick and got down to 108!! It was scary, no insurance and no help!!

So I started to research. I believe I had thyroiditis, it's caused by an infection and will evenually get better. I was able to go to an endocrinologist once to get a beta blocker and anti thyroid meds. I have had to play doctor so as not to kill my thyroid and finally here it is Feb 2012 and I'm off of all of it. But my muscle weakness, especially my shoulders are killing me. I've been reading about the iodine and I am going to research it and see what else I can do on a limited budget to get rid of this goiter. Has anyone ever heard of bio identical hormone replacement? I'm sure you have. We have a facility here in Orlando Florida that I had wanted to go to but it's costly. I wish you the best and I hope that others can give any advice that has helped them. Thank you and God bless! Vic

Replied by Carmel
(Essex, Uk)
03/01/2012

Also if you take a lot of garlic you can end up with an under active thyroid where you need to take iodine.

Replied by Jen
(Overland Park, Ks)
03/09/2012

@ Carmel - Thank you for bringing garlic and thyroid! I had no idea and after checking it out I'm going to slow down on my supps for them. Many thanks.

Replied by Wendi
(Austin, Tx)
05/28/2012

@ Vic from Florida: Buyer beware on bioidentical hormones, the places that tout those are usually upscale sales people under the guise of a doctor's care (and also very very expensive even with insurance). I have heard this from many people after talking about my experience about a year ago... They put me on thyroid meds, turned out I didn't need them, actually started affecting my heart and vision- all this from a "doctor's office". For iodine, there are lots of online places you can buy it from for cheap. Do your research before buying into anything.

Replied by Jolene
(Albuquerque, New Mexico)
02/23/2013

You can just apply iodine (about a square inch patch) to an area of the body where the skin is thin and your body will absorb what it needs. Check every 6 hours or so to see if the iodine has been absorbed and apply more if so.

Regarding cruciferous vegies - you always need to heat them up before you eat them if you have any type of thyroid issues to deactivate the engoiterins in them. You can let the cabbage cool off before useing it in a slaw - it's still yummy that way.

Some people's thyroids respond well to maca root, but your body must be free from any type of hormone supplements like natural progesterone for a couple of weeks before starting it. Do a lot of research about it before deciding to try it.

Replied by Bianca
(New Zealand)
08/31/2014
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Graves disease/hyperthyroid is actually from low iodine believe it or not so the world is uneducated therefore apple cider vinegar will aggravate graves but help hypo because obviously hypothyroidism is actually from too much iodine and apple cider actually depletes iodine and for some reason it helps people with hypothyroidism......go figure so I found this out with taking iodine in multi vitamins in the morning and after 5 months of no period it came back so there you go.

Apple Cider Vinegar, Coconut Oil

Posted by Nikki (Bernalillo, NM) on 05/13/2009

I have been reading about Apple cider vinigar and coconut oil on your site but I do not have a thyroid or parathyroid glands. they were taken out due to thyroid cancer. I am wondering if I can still use the ACV as long as I wait till after 4 hours of taking my synthroid and cytomil I am on? I want to take that for loosing weight. also would the coconut oil do any good if I do not have a thyroid for it to improve on?? thank you for any advise you can give..

Replied by Ladyliza
(Granada Hills, Ca)
02/22/2012
32 posts

I went on coconut oil for 2 months. My skin looked radient and it cured my psoriasis. Then I went for a check-up and my cholesterol had gone way up to 248. The good cholesterol went up too but so did the bad. Just have yours checked when you are using the oil. I am going to try coconut water instead.

Replied by Jude
(Somerville, Ma)
07/29/2012

Plenty of exercise will convert your bad cholesterol into good. I'd had a period of eating lots of junk food. When I went for check up, only my good cholesterol was high due to walking several hours per day.

Avoid Non-Stick Pans

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Posted by Rob (Manhattan, New York) on 01/28/2010
 ★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Non-Stick Pans & Thyroid disease

Perfluorooctanoic acid, used in non-stick pans and water-resistant fabrics may cause/contribute to thyroid disease. British researchers identified a link between the chemical (PFOA) & higher rates of thyroid disease.

Adults with the highest level of the chemical in the study were more than twice as likely to report thyroid disease... The study was published online in the Jan. 20, 2010 issue of Environmental Health Perspectives. It is not conclusive whether the chemical causes the thyroid problem or the thyroid malfunction results in the higher rate of chemical in the blood stream..My take...why take chances...get it out of the kitchen.

Replied by Phil
(Dearing, Ga/usa)
01/28/2010

Hi Rob. I have had stainless steel cookware for years now, because of the danger of the non-stick. Only until recently did I start to cook in them. The reason, I could not cook ANYTHING without it STICKING to the stainless steel. Well thank goodness for the net. I went on google and found out the trick to keep stainless steel from sticking to food.

The trick seems to be to heat the cookware over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Turn off heat and spray with a nonstick or put your oil in and smear around. Before cooking turn heat back on to warm oil, then start to cook. I have used this method and now my food doesn't stick! I use a store brand OLIVE OIL non- stick spray first then add the oil of my choice, usally olive oil.

I hope this helps all that may want to cook with stainless steel, but have had the sticking issues.

Cooked scrambled eggs yesterday and there was NO STICK at all!

Replied by Demaisra
(Eagle, Idaho)
12/13/2012

I just wanted to add I have never used non-stick pans. I have for years used good stainless for sauces and my favorites are my cast iron pans for frying. They are heavy, but if they are properly cared for and seasoned they will not stick like stainless will. A good cast iron pan will cook your food evenly and last not only you lifetime but beyond your grand children's life times.

Martha
(Michigan)
10/26/2018

I love cooking with cast iron-but you will absorb some iron in your food. Dr said I have too much iron, so I went to stainless steel cookware. No problem with sticking, just use olive oil or some other good oil- no problem!

Avoid Raw Spinach

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Posted by John (Hi) on 06/27/2020 6 posts

I chose to eat raw spinach as my leafy green and did so daily to the tune of 1 pound a week over a year. I had been warned about effects of oxalic acid causing stones but I didn't think I was overeating it. Over time I became less focused, irritable and finally fatigued, a feeling I had never experienced!

I tested for my thyroid markers and and they were through the roof! I immediately stopped the spinach and gradually normalized! Anecdotally, when I ate katuk, I experienced insomnia! Then, raw parsely and cilantro caused my skin to itch! Back to romaine lettuce for me. (Sauropus androgynus, also known as katuk, star gooseberry, or sweet leaf, is a shrub grown in some tropical regions as a leaf vegetable.)

Replied by JannS
(Alabama)
04/21/2022

There's really no research to back up Goitrogenic vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage Green leafy vegetables: kale, mustard and spinach) being bad for someone with Hypothyroidism. Especially if they are cooked. Also, we should be VERY careful with Iodine unless we are deficient. There is a TON of good research out here now. The antiinflammatory Autoimmune Diet ( AIP) is a great place to start the healing.

Avoid Soy

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Posted by Catherine F Clark (Chicago, Illinois, USA) on 09/02/2007
 ★★★★★

BSM [blackstrap molasses] is good stuff. However, if you wish to use milk, use raw milk. Raw cow's milk does not have the problems associated with pasturized, homogonized milk. Also, please be aware that soy is not the wonderful thing the soy industry would have you beleive! If you have hypothyroidism, unfermented soy is the worst thing you can ingest! Almond milk and any seed milks are very good. We drink goat milk when we have milk. BSM would fit in with goat milk very well.

Replied by Cynthia
(Jacksonville, Alabama)
04/02/2010

Actually, I read somewhere on the net that almonds can be a thyroid blocker, as in almond milk. Probably a few almonds are fine but drinking the milk all the time can be problematic. We quit drinking almond milk and went back to lactose free milk. I felt better, along with eating less soy and getting iodine supplements in a woman's multivitimin. Over doing soy really flattened me out.

Replied by Shanti
(Tiruvannamalai, Tn, India)
02/21/2011

I second Cynthia from Jacksonville, I am severely hypothyroid and growth hormone deficient and if I eat just a handful of almonds I have an aching, swollen thyroid for the next few days and feel terrible, like I have stopped taking my meds (even though I haven't). The same feeling of a swollen very sore thyroid happened to me recently after eating a whole pomelo (giant grapefruit like fruit). It cleared up by itself after a few days, but I am now assuming there are some powerful anti thyroid compounds in pomelos. I stopped eating grapefruits in large amounts a few years ago for the same reason. I am also very sensitive to cabbage, broccoli etc.... Hope this helps someone.

Replied by Lowie
(Sydney, Nsw Australia)
07/19/2012

Some years ago I was diagnosed as having Graves Disease because I had double vision. I was always eating and drinking soy products, being allergic to dairy. After having the Graves disease and double vision for some years, a cousin sent me an article saying soy could cause Graves and also diarrhea. I stopped all soy then and there... My diarrhea stopped within a few days, and 6 months later when I had my usual check up, the Graves disease had also gone, but I have been left forever with the double vision.

Replied by Mary
(Boston, Ma)
08/31/2013

Avoid soy like the plague! It is poison! Corn and soy are the 2 worst foods containing GMO!

Replied by KT
(Usa)
09/01/2013

Please be aware that dairy cows are being fed GMO grains and grasses. "Free-range" cattle or chickens are no longer safe. The only way I could get around this was to reduce my consumption. Helps keep my weight down too.

Borax

3 User Reviews
5 star (2) 
  67%
3 star (1) 
  33%
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Posted by Bev (Elroy, WI) on 04/07/2008
 ★★★☆☆

WORKED TEMPORARILY

I have continued the borax detox for fluoride toxicity 1-2 times per week. I had reduced my thyroid dose as my pulse rate was elevated which I thought was improvement of thyroid function. I don't think this was the case. Shortly after I had reduced to 2 1/2 from 3 1/2 grains, reducing 1/2 grain every two weeks, I began to experience fatigue again. Stayed at 3 gr. for about 10 more weeks and began having worsening of symtoms, muscle pains, hair loss, dry eyes, weight gain etc. This week I plan to consult with Dr. John Lowe regarding the possiblily of thyroid resistance and switching from Armour to Cytomel [T3].

Borax
Posted by Bev (Elroy, WI) on 12/13/2007
 ★★★★★

I had been treated with zithromax for pneumonia but what seemed to trigger the severe, sudden onset of reflux was taking 200mg of ibuprofen twice within the week for pain in my neck during that time. The ibuprofen caused a gastric ulcer since I had been on periodic courses of prednisone earlier for acute asthma which resolved after seven weeks of antibiotics. When I got the pneumonia I had no asthma but a high fever, fatigue and pain in the neck. Steroids can cause ulcers but I didn't think the effect would last that long as I was not taking any at the time. I woke up choking at night with reflux and started protonix. Stopped after about one year and since use digestive enzymes, honey, camomile, ACV with baking soda. Caution: Prevacid ia a fluoridated medication. Along with the reflux, I began severe hypothyroid symptoms I believe caused by Diflucan and Advair which are both fluoridated. Have been doing the borax detox twice a week and have reduced thyroid medication from 3 1/2 to 2 1/2 gr Armour.

Replied by Donna
(Austin, TX)
03/26/2009

Hello, Bev. You seem to know some stuff about your problems, but there is so much information out there that could be of so much use to you. Have you tried reading on thyroidism? There are some good books out there as well as some websites. About.com has some good info on thyroid issues, and it is a good starting point with your research. Also be aware that you could have more than one hormone problem going on in addition to your thyroid issues, such as adrenal issues or estrogen issues, that can complicate your problems even more. This can be especially true regarding your getting so sick with other things like pneumonia. Your immune system is probably severely compromised. I would suggest trying a Naturopathic doctor or a D.O. if you can't find one. They tend to be more of the thought of treating the person as a whole rather than just getting rid of the symptoms, and can be of significant help. And be careful with your home remedies that you thoroughly research each one, its side effects, and how it interacts with the other remedies you are doing before you try it. Otherwise you could be doing more harm than good to yourself. As a fellow struggler with hormones, and the thyroid in particular, I really understand what you are going through. Good luck and God Bless!

Replied by Beth
(Maryland)
09/28/2016

A good friend told me not to take OTC antacids, opremazole, etc., for a number of reasons. She told me to instead take Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice -- otherwise known as DGL. This builds up the mucous lining of the stomach and is really incredible. You can find many different brands online.

Borax
Posted by Bev (Elroy, Wisconsin) on 09/11/2007
 ★★★★★

After reading the info on fluoride on Earth Clinic I realised that the onset of my severe hypothyroid symptoms of extreme fatigue, weight gain, hair loss etc. was caused by taking repeated doses of Flucanazole to prevent yeast during repeated antibiotics for acute asthma [healed after 90 days on Zithromax]. My TSH [thyroid stimulating hormone] is less than .01 which shows hyperthyroidism so I have had a hard time finding a doctor willing to treat me. Now I know it is because the fluoride inhibits the pituitary gland from producing TSH. I live in a fluoridated community so my exposure has been long term. For several years I have had reverse osmosis water but it is very disappointing to find there is no acceptable whole house removal system. It was recommended to me to take cool showers as skin absorption is greater than drinking. I am hoping to convince our city council to drop the fluoride. I was happy to hear that borax can be used for detox. Yesterday I mixed 1/8 tsp of borax and sea salt in one L of water. During the night I awoke with a headache. By morning it was so bad that I vomited the aspirin, snack and enzymes I took to combat it. I couldn't keep anything other than sips down without dry heaves until early evening.I am thinking that is a detox reaction. I am going to hold off another day and dilute it further. I currently take Armour Thyroid and about $400 of supplements, mainly enzymes to prevent reflux, keep spinal alignment, joint stiffness, fatigue, sinus infections, constipation, hair loss and all those other nasty hypothyroid effects. I was also taking the apple cider vinegar and baking soda [about 8 days now] at the same time so may be that was too much at once with the borax. I will keep you posted on my progress. Thank you for this wonderful website.

Replied by Jill
(Michigan, US)
09/07/2014

I was wondering how the Borax has worked for you. I bought a box of Borax detergent. That is the same Borax you's are talking about, right?

Cholesterol

Posted by Kathie (Houston, Select State/province) on 05/28/2011

It is my understanding that high cholesteral can only be a cause of poor funtioning thyroid gland or the liver (granted there are a few that have a hereditary gene that can cause high cholesterol). So, if you have high cholesterol, get your thyroid checked (you want your TSH under 3) and get your liver enzymes checked as well (though a poor functioning liver does not always show up on tests). Treat these conditions and your cholesterol will improve. I urge to treat them with things mentioned here on the site and not take drugs.

My case, my Dr. put me on Synthroid for my thyroid ( my TSH was a whopping 104! ). I did not get into the natural approach until years later and when I tried to switch over to natural thyroid I experianced extreem panic attacks, heart palpitations and major vertigo. If you have a thyroid issue, look into natural approaches, it is very difficult if not impossible to switch from synthetic thyroid to natural thyroid if you have been on it for a long time..

Replied by Gnosis
(Shelton, Ct)
11/26/2011

Am 57 and thyroid was removed when 17 and it has been a long journey from there to here, and I am glad for how I chose to respond to the situation -- to become my own doctor. Thanks to the internet, my learning machine, and listening to my body signals.

Currently take Symplex F and T-100. I can identify with all of the issues and experiences of the posters.

I spend less money on supplements now. I juice all of my dark leafy greens and sprouts, very little to no fruits or fruit smoothies. Green apples and local strawberries okay. Started the apple cider vinegar and baking soda regimen. Take a "Long Fast" twice yearly. Predominant oil is coconut and occasionally stone-crushed (Bariani) olive oil.

Actually spend same and most likely less on groceries than in my meat eating days. Although the Klamath Lake Blue Green algae is a bit of an initial investment, but it has a shelf life of 3 years. 2.5 teaspoons most days and a sun-brewed algae tea.

No regular consumption of various caffeinated products, nor cruciferous vegetables.

Periodically track myself by taking a.m. temperature.

Took up meditation a few years ago and that is helping me get out of the mental ruts that reinforced the feelings of tiredness and brain fog for decades. Body-mind-me. Dropped the hectic material-based middle class must-have lifestyle and have not looked back.

Dr. Robert Cassar's Food Pyramid, and Markus Rothkranz's verve and vitality and e-books motivate me in my raw foods transition.

I love this website, written by real people for real people who simply want to share and to help and to enhance and to be enhanced. Thank you everyone.

Replied by Bry
(London, Uk)
03/21/2012

To GNOSIS of Shelton CT, tell me more about brain foginess please, thank you.

Coconut Oil

30 User Reviews
5 star (22) 
  73%
4 star (1) 
  3%
1 star (3) 
  10%
(4) 
  13%
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Posted by Dardenel (Us) on 11/14/2018 50 posts
 ★★★★★

I am so excited this a.m. I was diagnosed with hypothyroid on Sept. 5,2018. I was prescribed synthroid, and took it for 2 weeks, then stopped as I was feeling awful, worse than when I was diagnosed. I found Earthclinic and read about natural ways to try to even out my numbers. I got onto Coconut Oil for it's iodine, and also started using salt again, but SeaSalt only, and just about one 8th of tsp a day.

I know many of my foods Id added to my diet had iodine as well, so I didnt want to get too much. Easy does it I kept remembering. I got my new, thyroid bloodwork back this a.m. and I'd like to share the pics so I'll try to do that. The first is the before numbers, and the second is the "after". I'm so thrilled and I hope others will try this.

EC: So sorry, your pics did not upload for some reason.

Replied by Dardenel
(Us)
11/16/2018
50 posts

Ok, there was a problem with the pics of my bloodwork so I'll just enter the numbers for before the coconut oil and seasalt, and the numbers after. Before, I had a 6.0 which the normal range is 0.450 - 4.500 uIU/mL. The after numbers are now 2.040 uIU/mL.

Replied by Becky
(Ca)
11/19/2018

To Dardenel (US)

It appears coconut oil help your Thyroid:-) How much were you taking, for how long? Do you know if you had high Thyroid antibodies as well?

Becky

Denise
(Us)
11/20/2018
50 posts

Hi Becky, I am not sure what high thyroid antibodies are, but I had hypothyroid/low thyroid. I believe I fluctuate between low and high at times, but no bloodwork to show a high count. I use most days, 1 tbsp of coconut oil, and maybe a total of 1/4 maybe a bit more, of Sea salt. Some days I may overdue the sea salt, but not often. The coconut oil I will also use to spread on sandwich if I have one, or english muffin. But as I said, most days I just do a tbsp in the a.m. I hope this doesn't gross you out, but I just warm mine in a glass dish with cover, and put it in hot water til it melts, then I just drink it down. It does not taste awful imo. You can use it as you wish, but I feel just using it in things takes away the potency, just my opinion on that. Let me know how you do. Also remember, it was about a month to two months before I got my second bloodwork-up. I had stopped the synthroid the doc recommended after 2 weeks, and started the coconut oil. I do use other supplements, and nutrition things so I will give you the list if you like. Let me know if you need further info. Glad to help if I can.

Betty S.
(Carrollton, Illinois)
04/03/2022

What brand of coconut oil do you use? And where do you purchase it?

Coconut Oil
Posted by Sundar (Balasore, Odisha) on 10/05/2014

Please, tell me the process for using coconut oil for thyroid and weight loss.


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