Natural Home Remedy for Slightly Low Thyroid

Low thyroid function, also known as hypothyroidism, indicates your thyroid gland is producing inadequate amounts of thyroid hormone. This hormone is responsible for regulating many bodily functions; low levels can cause fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold and menstrual problems. Even if your hypothyroidism is mild, you will still need to take thyroid medication as this is the only way to replenish inadequate levels of the hormone. Several natural treatments can serve as complements. Discuss natural treatments with your doctor before using them; meeting with a health-care practitioner experienced in natural medicine is advised.

Dietary Strategies

• Watch your intake of foods that interfere with thyroid hormone production; they include cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, rutabagas, turnips, peanuts and soybeans. It is not necessary to completely avoid these foods, but you should not eat them excessively. Your doctor can advise you how much is appropriate.

  Eat an anti-inflammatory diet that encourages normal immune functioning, as most cases of hypothyroidism stem from the autoimmune disease Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Limit your intake of animal proteins, foods made from white flour and sugar. Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables (except those mentioned above), whole grains and beans.

Using Natural Supplements

• Consider taking natural supplements that can encourage proper thyroid functioning. They include fish oil (one to two capsules daily), L-tyrosine (500 mg three times a day) for general thyroid support, coleus (100 mg three times a day), guggul (500 mg three times a day) and bladderwrack (600 mg three times a day). Do not use supplements without consulting an experienced practitioner first.

Other Suggestions

• Encourage proper thyroid function with contrast hydrotherapy. On the throat, use a hot application for three minutes and switch to cold for one minute, a total of three times; do this two to three times daily.

  Try acupuncture; it can address hormonal imbalances. Experiment with relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, positive visualization and progressive relaxation.