Natural Treatment for Graves Disease

An autoimmune disorder, Graves disease is a thyroid condition which is measured by the presence of thyroid antibodies in the blood. Treatment with medication may be enhanced through the use of natural means.

Hyperthyroidism

• When the thyroid gland secretes too much thyroid hormone, an overactive metabolic state occurs and all of the body's processes are sped up. The most common form of hyperthyroidism is known as Graves disease or thyrotoxicosis.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of Graves disease include a constant feeling of being hot, nervousness, irritability, weakness, hair and weight loss, hand tremors and rapid heartbeat. More serious indicators include protruding eyeballs and the separation of nails from the nail bed.

Helpful Foods

• According to Phyllis Balch's well-known holistic health guide, "A Prescription for Nutritional Healing," eat plenty of the following foods to improve your condition: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, mustard greens, peaches, pears, spinach and turnips. According to Balch, these natural foods help to suppress thyroid production. Avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea, nicotine and soft drinks.

Vitamins

• According to Balch, increased amounts of vitamins and minerals are necessary to support the hyper-metabolic state of Graves disease. Taking a super high-potency vitamin is recommended. Taking 1 to 3 tablespoons of brewer's yeast is recommended due to its high B-vitamin content, which helps activate enzymes that are needed for improved immune function.

Other Recommendations

• According to Even Better Now.com, bugleweed herb may be useful for slowing down an overactive thyroid. Lithium orotate is another suggestion for thyroid treatment. It is a natural mineral salt from the earth that may be used to safely slow down thyroid function.

Warning

• Before adding supplements to your diet, ask your doctor about any potential ramifications of combining natural treatments with prescribed medications.