Gaining Unexplained Weight?

Thyroid conditions affect as many as 59 million Americans, though many are unaware. Located in the neck, the thyroid is the master gland of metabolism. When it is failing to function, every aspect of a person’s health is effected, especially weight, depression, and energy levels. Left untreated, it increases risks of obesity, heart disease, depression, anxiety, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, and infertility. In this article, we’ll review symptoms of a thyroid condition and discuss thyroid treatment options, including natural remedies for thyroid treatment.

Symptoms of a Thyroid Problem

Not all of these symptoms need to be present to diagnose a thyroid problem. These ten do represent the most common signs:

1. Muscle and joint pain or carpal tunnel/tendonitis
2. Neck discomfort or swelling
3. Changes in hair or skin
4. Bowel problems
5. Menstrual irregularity and fertility problems
6. A family history of thyroid problems
7. Cholesterol issues
8. Depression and anxiety
9. Weight changes
10. Fatigue

These symptoms can be signs of hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid gland, or hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland.

Thyroid Treatment Options

Hypothyroidism
The only real cure for thyroid underactivity is removal of the thyroid through surgery or chemical destruction. In these cases, the missing hormone is replaced by prescription medication.

Hyperthyroidism
The goal when treating hyperthyroidism is to decrease excess hormone levels. This is often accomplished using antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine treatment, or sometimes through surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid. The approach used depends on the severity of the condition.

Natural Remedies for Thyroid Underactivity

Hypothyroidism can be treated using natural remedies, but further medical treatment is often required. Selenium supplements can be helpful, but must be procured from a doctor. Other natural remedies for thyroid treatment can be found at health stores and, when combined with dietary changes, help control symptoms. According to one holistic practitioner, eating easily digestible foods and taking herbs like ginger, peppermint, and grape bitters that help with digestion can help the liver better convert thyroid hormones. The top supplements recommended as natural remedies for thyroid sufferers are:

1. Iodine
2. Selenium
3. Zinc
4. Vitamin D
5. Vitamin E
6. Antioxidants
7. Essential fats
8. Amino acids

As always, natural remedies for thyroid treatment should always be discussed with a doctor and may need to be implemented in conjunction with other medication. Be sure to work closely with your physician to develop a system that works for you.

Helpful sites: totalhealthcentervb.com