Helping an Underactive Thyroid

An estimated five per cent of the population suffer from hypothyroidism and the majority do not know about it.If left untreated thyroid imbalance can leave people at risk of heart disease, infertility and osteoporosis. The thyroid gland is situated just below the voice box in the front of the neck. This gland and the hormones it produces are responsible for the regulation of metabolism of every cell in the body.An imbalance of thyroid hormones disrupts the functioning of the whole body. Hypothyroidism refers to low functioning of the thyroid and is one of the most common disorders of this gland. Symptoms of an under functioning thyroid can include: Lethargy, drained feeling even after sleep and rest, increased sensitivity to the cold. elevated cholesterol, unexplained weight gain, headaches, constipation, fertility problems, depression, dry skin, swollen appearance due to poor lymphatic drainage, loss of libido, joint pain and tenderness.What Causes Underactive thyroid?The following can be causative factors: Hashimotos Disease, Selenium or Zinc Deficiency, Adrenal Fatigue, Chronic Inflammation, Pregnancy, Fluoridated Water, Soya Products, Medications, Mercury Fillings, Allergies, Prolonged Illness.The severity of symptoms can range from mild deficiency states that are barely detectable to quite severe states. The levels can be checked by blood test, however mild hypothyroidism may go undetected in the blood it is important to note that that mild hypothyroidism is the most common form. If you feel you may have an underactive thyroid, and yet blood tests are normal you can carry out the following test, and seek natural treatment.Thyroid TestTaking your basal body temperature is indicator of thyroid function. Your body temperature reflects your metabolic rate which is largely determined by hormones secreted by the thyroid gland.1)Shake down the thermometer2)On waking place the thermometer under your armpit for ten minutes (it is best to remain lying down in bed, do not move around.3)After ten minutes read and record your temperature and the date.4)Record for 3 - 10 days.Men and post menopausal woman can record the temperature at any time, menstruating women must perform the test on the 2nd 3rd, and 4th day of menstruation.Temperature should be between 97.6 and 98.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Lower temperature may indicate Hypothyroidism (under active thyroid). High basal temperature (above 98.6F) may indicate Hyperthyroidism, it is far less common. Symptoms include hyperactivity, bulging eyeballs, fast pulse, and inability to gain weight, insomnia, irritability, nervousness, and menstrual problems.How to Revive your Thyroid GlandTake Thyroid supporting supplements and herbsAvoid Thyroid suppressing foodsEat Thyroid supporting foodsExercise AppropriatelyAddress other imbalances ( candida, adrenal fatigue, female hormonal imbalance)Using appropriate Bach Flower Remedies.Reflexology: This therapy has proven very effective in thyroid imbalance.Allergy Testing: to highlight foods which may be causing disharmony in the body.At Wild Earth Natural Health Clinic a combination of the above measures are used to restore balance in thyroid conditions. A detailed consultation is carried out each individual and a unique plan is put in place, incorporating specific remedies and therapies for the person"s particular set of symptoms. This protocol is appropriate and safe whether or not you are taking prescribed thyroid medication. Wild Earth Natural Health Clinic provides Professional advice and Holistic Health and Wellbeing treatments. Fiona is a registered practitioner. For more information contact Fiona at Wild Earth Natural Health Clinic on 087 9690936. Reflexology - Allergy Testing - Holistic & Aromatherapy Massage - Indian Head Massage - Reiki - Hopi Ear Candle Treatment. VHI and Vivas approved.