A Low functioning Thyroid–
What it means and steps you can take
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. A low functioning thyroid lowers metabolism and can be a factor in weight gain, fatigue, repeat infections, migraines, depression, and many other ill health symptoms. Nutrient deficiencies can cause the thyroid to function at lower levels. The thyroid can become exhausted from over stimulation from caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants and alcohol inhibits thyroid function. Sometimes the thyroid becomes out of balance after the hormone shift of pregnancy.
Herbal supplements are a good choice for rebalancing the thyroid and increasing metabolism. A healthy diet, including plenty of dark leafy greens and trace minerals, will help nourish the thyroid. Cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower, and turnips) can inhibit thyroid function so consume them in moderation if your thyroid is very low. Always remember to consult your personal healthcare provider before making a change.
Herbs for Slow Metabolism, Low Thyroid, and Glandular Health
Nettles: alkalizing, mineral rich tonic, thyroid balancer, mucous cleanser, increases thyroid function, useful for overcoming anemia
Mullein: effective for respiratory and swollen membrane conditions, helps to loosen and remove mucous
Watercress: rich in minerals, stimulates metabolic activity, a mild tonic
Kelp, Dulse, and sea vegetables: rich in iodine, chromium and other minerals, cleansing and thyroid stimulating, helpful in weight loss, prenatal health, gland and blood sugar balancing, organ cleansing by binding with toxic heavy metals in the intestines and carrying them out of the body
Sarsaparilla Root: cleans toxins in the blood, increases elimination of uric acid, supports the adrenal glands, useful for scaling skin conditions
Licorice Root: valuable for blood cleansing, nerve, endocrine, and hormone support, blood sugar regulator, and nutritive to the adrenal glands, helpful in overcoming stress
Siberian Ginseng: overall general tonic, nutritive, rejuvenating, balancing, stimulates adrenal function
Bee Pollen/Royal Jelly: A “super food” completely balanced for vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and essential amino acids; rejuvenating
Chlorella: whole body tonic, regenerative and revitalizing, very nutritive with antioxidants and other vitamins, helps balance sugar levels, restores and enhances immune system
Spirulina: highly nutritive, anti-oxidant, stimulates immunity, useful for weight loss and blood sugar balance, a tonic for the thyroid
Astragalus: toning and balancing for the organs and glands, helps to increase body’s overall energy and vitality, stimulates the immune system
Evening Primrose Oil: high in GLA and omega-3 fatty acids, helps balance hormones
Gotu Kola: a brain tonic, increases memory, helps overcome depression, increase heart and nerve health, aids in fat metabolism, supports the thyroid
Capsicum: (cayenne) a circulatory stimulant, a transporter and catalyst of herbs, enhances digestion
Green Tea: a rich antioxidant, an excellent liver cleanser, stimulates thermogenesis for increased calorie burning and weight control
The Next Step
Keeping the glandular system functioning well will enhance total wellness keeping you feeling energized and vibrant! Our glands work hard and need support to keep. Sometimes, a reminder of healthy practices posted in a visible place will help make these changes easy to put into place everyday. I’ve put together a simple guide that includes exercises, herbs, and foods (including recipes!) to keep your glands in tip-top shape. You can check it out here! Incorporating some of these tips each day will tone your glands for better health!
Yours in Health,
