Natural Treatment for Hypothyroidism

Most endocrinologists recommend a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement, such as Levothyroxin or Synthroid, for patients with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis or hypothyroidism. Patients are often told that the medication must be taken for the rest of their lives.  There are some individuals who will need to take some type of thyroid hormone replacement forever.  However, a lot of patients are able to stop their thyroid medication after using natural treatment methods.

As a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine, I understand the importance of addressing the root of your thyroid imbalance and the underlying patterns that have arisen in your body.  Herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, detoxification, supplements and diet are all important aspects of a successful treatment plan.

Most thyroid diseases are not caused by your thyroid gland. For example, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.  It’s an autoimmune disease that attacks your thyroid gland and kills the cells that produce the important hormones.  Taking a thyroid hormone replacement will not eliminate the autoimmune disease, it will however, cover up some of the symptoms.

When you take any hormone replacement it eliminates the need for your gland to produce the hormone, therefore the gland will become suppressed and over time can atrophy.  For some people, like me, their thyroid gland is no longer functioning.  My thyroid gland was radiated so the tissue does not produce thyroid hormone.  Therefore, I take desiccated thyroid on a daily basis.  Yet, thyroid medication alone is not enough to keep my health optimal.  I use other natural therapies to support my body and address the autoimmune condition. Taking a thyroid replacement hormone replaces the hormone in my body, but it does not correct the cause of my thyroid problem.

Some researchers believe that genetics plays a large part in the development of hypothyroidism. However, a genetic tendency will not always express itself in your body. If we can remove the trigger, treat the inflammation, and restore a natural balance, patients with a genetic marker for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis or hypothyroidism often substantially improve their condition.

A protocol using natural hypothyroid therapies should always address your symptoms and the root of your imbalance.  In addition to monitoring and evaluating typical thyroid blood tests, your doctor might also analyze your hormone levels, digestive system, adrenal glands, and other parts of your body that may be contributing to the dysfunction of your thyroid gland.  Find a qualified natural doctor that specialized in endocrine health and works to identify what is causing your thyroid struggle.