Yoga for Thyroid Problems – Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism

If you are experiencing thyroid problems or imbalances, practising yoga for thyroid problems can be beneficial. Adding yoga to your routine can be a powerful and comprehensive way to manage thyroid problems – Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism.

Yoga has been practised for centuries and offers several techniques to help maintain a healthy thyroid, whether you are dealing with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The practise of yoga aims to bring balance to the thyroid gland and improve overall health by incorporating gentle yoga poses, specific breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques. This article explores the advantages of practising yoga for thyroid problems and provides tips on how to include this traditional practise in your daily routine to improve your thyroid health.

This article provides an overview of how thyroid imbalance can affect your overall health.

Thyroid Gland Anatomy and Physiology

The thyroid gland, which is shaped like a small butterfly and located in the front of the neck, plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. The body produces hormones that play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, development, and energy production, among other functions. If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can greatly affect various aspects of our health.

When the thyroid gland doesn’t function normally, it can lead to a thyroid imbalance. This can result in either an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Both diseases have the potential to cause various symptoms and impact multiple systems of the body.

Thyroid dysfunction can have various effects on human health. It can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues, including weight gain or loss, fatigue, mood changes, hair loss, and changes in heart rate. Additionally, thyroid dysfunction can impact the body’s metabolism, which can affect overall health

The Effects of Thyroid Dysfunction on Human Health

In addition, an imbalance in the thyroid can affect other bodily systems, including the reproductive system. This can lead to irregular menstruation or concerns about fertility. Additionally, it may impact the gastrointestinal system, leading to problems with digestion and changes in bowel movements.

It’s important to address thyroid imbalance and find effective management techniques because it can have a significant impact on overall health. Apart from using medication and making lifestyle changes, incorporating holistic practises like yoga can be a helpful approach to maintain good thyroid health and enhance overall wellness.

Common thyroid imbalance causes and symptoms

Thyroid imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors and can result in a range of symptoms. Some common causes of thyroid imbalances include autoimmune disorders, iodine deficiency, and certain medications.

Symptoms of thyroid imbalances can include:

One of the common causes of thyroid imbalance is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Other causes include iodine deficiency, radiation therapy, certain medications, and pituitary

The most frequent reason for thyroid imbalance is autoimmune thyroiditis, which includes conditions like Hashimoto’s disease (hypothyroidism) and Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism). Sometimes, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland in a way that causes it to produce too much or too little hormones.

Iodine deficiency

For the synthesis of thyroid hormone, it is necessary to have sufficient levels of iodine. When people don’t consume enough iodine, which is common in places where the soil lacks iodine or people don’t eat enough foods that are rich in iodine, it can cause the thyroid to become underactive.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormone levels can have an impact on thyroid function, which can lead to temporary or long-term abnormalities. This is often experienced during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause.

Medications and Treatments

Some medications like lithium and amiodarone, and neck radiation therapy can affect the thyroid function and lead to an imbalance in the thyroid.

Common Thyroid Imbalance Symptoms

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include

• Feeling tired and having low energy levels.
• Some people struggle with losing weight while others find it challenging to maintain a healthy weight.
• The person is sensitive to cold.
• The individual is experiencing brittle nails and dry skin.
• The person is experiencing thoughts of suicide and changes in their mood.
• I am experiencing issues with my digestion.
• I have trouble focusing and remembering things.

Some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism are:

• The person is experiencing a fast heartbeat and palpitations.
• Despite having an increased appetite, the person is experiencing weight loss.
• Experiencing too much sweating and difficulty in tolerating heat.
• The person is experiencing feelings of nervousness and irritation.
• Hand tremors or shakiness can be observed.
• Experiencing constipation or diarrhea frequently.
• Muscle wasting is a condition where there is a loss of muscle mass.

It’s worth mentioning that the symptoms can differ in their intensity and may resemble symptoms of other health issues. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional to receive an accurate diagnosis.

Exploring the role of yoga in managing thyroid-related issues

Yoga has become increasingly popular as a beneficial practise for managing various health conditions, including thyroid problems, due to its holistic approach to wellness. Yoga is an effective way to achieve balance and promote thyroid health. This is due to the combination of physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, and mindfulness practises that it involves. We will explore how practising yoga can assist with thyroid issues and enhance your overall health and wellness.

Thyroid Gland Stimulation

Some yoga poses have been proven to activate and stimulate the thyroid gland, which can help improve its function. According to yoga experts, certain poses like Sarvangasana (shoulder stand), Halasana (plough pose), and Matsyasana (fish pose) can help improve blood circulation to the thyroid gland. These poses involve gentle compression and stretching of the neck area, which can promote the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland.

Balancing Hormones

Practising yoga can help balance hormones by reducing stress and promoting overall mind-body harmony. When someone experiences chronic stress, it can disrupt their hormonal balance, potentially resulting in thyroid disease. Practising yoga can help reduce stress levels by soothing the nervous system and regulating the production of stress hormones. Improving thyroid function and hormone balance is a potential benefit of this.

Enhancing Circulation and Energy Flow

When you practise yoga poses along with conscious breathing, it can help enhance the circulation and energy flow in your body, including your thyroid gland. When blood circulation is improved, it can effectively carry oxygen and nutrients to the gland, which helps it to function properly. In addition, practising yoga helps activate energy channels called nadis, which helps create a balanced and harmonious flow of prana, or life force energy. This can contribute to overall vitality and well-being.

Improved metabolism

The hormones produced by the thyroid gland are crucial for regulating metabolism. If the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to either a slow metabolism (hypothyroidism) or a fast metabolism (hyperthyroidism). By blending physical exercise, breath awareness, and relaxation, yoga has the potential to enhance metabolic function. Regularly practicing yoga can assist in maintaining a healthy metabolism by enhancing digestion, boosting energy expenditure, and aiding in the absorption of nutrients.

Emotional well-being and stress reduction

Thyroid issues may have an impact on a person’s emotional and psychological well-being. Practising yoga can help to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often associated with thyroid issues. Yoga incorporates mindfulness and meditation practises that can help individuals develop emotional balance and self-awareness. These practises can also equip individuals with tools to manage the emotional effects of thyroid-related disorders.

The effects of yoga on the endocrine system, especially the thyroid gland

The endocrine system is responsible for regulating various biological functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood control. The thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system that produces hormones which have an impact on almost all cells and organs in the body. Studies have demonstrated that Yoga’s holistic approach to health can have positive effects on the endocrine system, with a particular emphasis on the thyroid gland. We will explore how yoga affects the endocrine system and helps to maintain hormonal balance, specifically with regards to the thyroid gland.

Activated Energy Centers

Yoga involves performing physical postures known as asanas, controlling your breath through pranayama, and practising meditation. These three elements work in harmony to stimulate and harmonise the energy centres in your body, also known as chakras. The endocrine system places significant importance on the throat chakra, which is located in close proximity to the thyroid gland. Practising yoga poses like Sarvangasana (shoulder stand) and Halasana (plough pose) can be beneficial in stimulating and nourishing the thyroid gland. This can help the gland to function at its best.

Stress reduction and hormone balance

When someone experiences chronic stress, it can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in their body, particularly the ones produced by the thyroid gland. When you practise yoga, techniques like pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation can activate the relaxation response in your body. This helps to soothe your nervous system and reduce stress levels. Reducing stress can help restore hormonal balance, which can lead to improved thyroid function.

Better mind-body connection

Practising yoga helps individuals develop a deeper connection between their mind and body. This increased awareness allows people to better recognise their physical sensations, emotions, and internal processes. This increased awareness can help individuals gain a better understanding of their bodies, including any signs or symptoms of thyroid imbalance. When people have this knowledge, they can be proactive in taking care of their thyroid health and seek medical attention when needed.

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid axis is regulated

The HPT axis is a complicated system that controls the production and release of thyroid hormones. Studies have demonstrated that practicing yoga can affect the HPT axis, which in turn helps regulate thyroid function. Studies have shown that yoga treatments can help regulate hormone levels, support the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, and bring balance to the HPT axis.

Mindfulness-Based Hormone Regulation

Mindfulness practices in yoga have been linked to managing and balancing hormones. Research suggests that practicing mindfulness meditation can have an impact on hormone production and release, specifically those that are linked to thyroid function. Practicing mindfulness can potentially improve thyroid function by enhancing our ability to focus on the present moment and reducing our reactions to external stimuli.

Research-backed evidence supporting the positive effects of yoga on thyroid function

For centuries, people have been practicing yoga. However, recent scientific studies are exploring its potential benefits for various health issues, including thyroid problems. Numerous studies have been conducted to explore the advantages of practicing yoga for thyroid function, which have yielded valuable insights into its positive impacts. We will explore some of the research-supported evidence that suggests yoga can enhance thyroid function.

Yoga’s Impact on Hormone Levels

The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine published a study that examined the effects of a 12-week yoga programme on hormone levels in women with hypothyroidism. The study found that practising yoga can increase the levels of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are important hormones for the thyroid. This suggests that yoga may have the potential to enhance hormone production and improve thyroid function.

Yoga’s Effect on Stress Reduction

Chronic stress can make thyroid problems worse. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism published a study that examined how an 8-week yoga programme affected stress levels and quality of life in individuals with hypothyroidism. The study found that practicing yoga can significantly decrease stress levels and improve the overall quality of life. This suggests that reducing stress through yoga can have a positive impact on thyroid function.

Yoga and immune system control

Hashimoto’s disease and other autoimmune thyroid disorders occur when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the thyroid gland. The International Journal of Yoga recently published a study that examined how yoga affects the immune system of patients with autoimmune thyroiditis. The research suggests that regularly practising yoga can have a positive impact on the immune system of individuals with thyroid autoimmunity. This can help reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy immune system balance.

Yoga can help with stress management and emotional well-being

It is common for thyroid problems to be associated with emotional symptoms like feeling anxious or sad. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that practicing yoga can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Practicing yoga can indirectly benefit individuals with thyroid issues by promoting mental wellness and improving stress management.

Metabolic function and yoga

The practise of yoga, which involves physical movements and breath control, can affect metabolic function. The Journal of Physical Therapy Science published a study that examined how yoga affects metabolic markers in patients with hypothyroidism. People with thyroid dysfunction who regularly practise yoga have shown improvement in their metabolic indicators such as body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio, and lipid profiles. This suggests that yoga has a positive impact on their metabolic health.

Although these studies show promising results, it’s important to emphasise that further research is necessary to explore the specific mechanisms that contribute to yoga’s influence on thyroid function. It’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s response to yoga may vary. That’s why it’s crucial to seek personalised advice from a healthcare professional and to use yoga as a complementary approach alongside traditional medical treatment.

In general, the available evidence suggests that practicing yoga may have benefits for people with thyroid-related disorders. These benefits may include helping to balance hormones, reducing stress, improving immune system function, promoting mental well-being, and enhancing metabolic function. Incorporating yoga into a comprehensive treatment strategy may help optimize thyroid health and overall well-being in a holistic way.

Yoga for Thyroid Problems: Asanas to Activate, Stimulate, and Calm the Thyroid

Certain yoga postures, also known as asanas, have the ability to activate, stimulate, and soothe the thyroid gland. This can promote ideal thyroid function and overall health. I have compiled a list of yoga poses that are beneficial for maintaining thyroid health.

Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana)

The shoulder stand, also known as Sarvangasana, is a yoga pose that is highly recommended for thyroid health. It is often referred to as the “queen” of such poses. Assuming an inverted pose can help boost blood circulation to the throat area and enhance the activation of the thyroid gland. To perform this pose, start by lying flat on your back and then lift your legs up towards the sky. Use your hands to support your lower back as you do this. Keep your body in a straight line and hold the pose for a few breaths. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the duration of the pose.

Halasana (Plough Pose)

Halasana, also known as the plough pose, is another beneficial asana for maintaining thyroid health. To perform this pose, you need to bend your torso forward, bring your legs over your head, and stretch your spine. This job role promotes blood circulation to the neck and thyroid glands, thereby stimulating them. To start, lie down on your back and gradually lift your legs up over your head while using your hands to support your back. Maintain the position for several breaths, ensuring that your legs are straight, and your neck is relaxed.

Matsyasana (fish pose)

The Fish Pose, also called Matsyasana, is an excellent yoga posture that can help you open up your throat and stimulate your thyroid gland. This position helps to relax your body while also improving blood flow and stretching your neck muscles. To do Matsyasana, lie down on your back and lift your chest up while arching your back. Use your forearms to support yourself. You can rest your head gently on the ground or on a support. Take a deep breath and hold the pose for a few breaths. Gradually increase the duration of the pose.

Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)

When you do the bridge pose, also known as Setu Bandhasana, it can help to stimulate your throat area and get your thyroid gland working. In addition, it helps to stretch the neck muscles and improve blood circulation to the thyroid gland. First, start by lying on your back and bending your knees. Keep your feet flat on the ground. Slowly raise your hips off the floor while supporting your lower back with your hands or interlocking your fingers under your torso. Take the position and hold it for a few breaths before letting it go.

The Camel Pose (Ustrasana)

Ustrasana, also known as Camel Pose, is a yoga posture that involves a gentle backbend. It helps to stretch the front of the body, especially the throat area. This activity promotes the functioning of the thyroid gland, improves blood flow throughout the body, and also helps to improve flexibility. Start by kneeling down and slowly lean backwards, extending your arms towards your heels. Make sure to keep your chest lifted and your eyes looking up. Maintain the position for a few breaths, being careful not to strain your neck or lower back.

Make sure to perform these positions with mindfulness, being aware of your breath and bodily sensations. It’s recommended to consult a trained yoga instructor if you’re experiencing neck or spine issues or if you’re new to yoga. This will help you achieve proper alignment and prevent any discomfort or injury.

By incorporating these yoga poses into your regular routine, you can stimulate and soothe your thyroid gland, which can lead to improved thyroid function and better overall thyroid health.

To activate and stimulate the thyroid gland, follow these instructions:

1. Eat foods that are rich in iodine, such as seaweed, fish, and dairy products.

2. Exercise regularly to boost your metabolism and promote thyroid function.

3. Get enough sleep to help regulate your hormones and support thyroid health.

4. Reduce stress

Thyroid Balance Pranayama Techniques

Controlled breathing, also known as Pranayama, is a highly effective technique for regulating the thyroid gland and promoting overall thyroid health. I have some pranayama techniques that may be helpful in restoring thyroid balance:

Ujjayi Breath

• Find a comfortable position where your back is straight, and your shoulders are relaxed.
• To find your centre, simply close your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
• As you exhale, gently constrict the back of your neck to create a soft hissing or ocean-like sound.
• Breathe in deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen, ribs, and chest to fill with air.
• Breathe out slowly through your nose while gently tightening your throat.
• Keep up with this rhythmic breathing pattern and focus on the sound and sensation of your breath.
• To improve the relaxation and balance of your thyroid gland, try practicing Ujjayi breathing for a few minutes every day.

Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)

• Make sure you are seated in a comfortable position with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
• To get ready, simply shut your eyes and take a few deep breaths.
• Relax and place your left hand on your left knee.
• Take your right hand and fold your index and middle fingers towards your palm. Hold it in front of your face.
• Using your right thumb, cover your right nostril and take a deep breath in through your left nostril.
• After you finish inhaling, use your ring finger to close your left nostril and then release the right nostril.
• Take a deep breath and then exhale slowly through your right nostril.
• First, take a deep breath. Then, use your thumb to seal your right nostril.
• Close your left nostril and exhale through it.
• To perform this technique, breathe in and out through one nostril, then switch to the other nostril for the next breath and exhale. Keep alternating between the two nostrils as you continue the cycle.

To regulate the flow of energy throughout your body, including the thyroid gland, try practicing Nadi Shodhana for a few minutes every day.

Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath)

Bhramari Pranayama, also known as Humming Bee Breath, is a breathing technique.

• Find a comfortable position and try to relax your entire body.
• If you want to relax, try closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths.
• Focus on your breathing and take a slow, deep inhale.
• Take a deep breath and then exhale slowly while making a soft humming sound, similar to the buzzing of a bee.
• To make the desired sound, please keep your mouth closed and produce a humming noise by vibrating the back of your throat.
• Let the vibrations pass through your brain and throat.
• Take a moment to pause after each breath and notice the calming effect of the practice.
• Try repeating this pattern several times while focusing on the sound and vibrations.

Practising Bhramari Pranayama can be beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, it can aid in maintaining a healthy endocrine system, with a focus on the thyroid gland.

It is important to keep in mind that pranayama should be practiced in a relaxed and effortless manner, without any strain or stress. It’s advisable to consult an experienced yoga instructor before incorporating pranayama into your routine, especially if you have any thyroid issues or medical conditions.

Exploring the link between stress and thyroid imbalance

When a person experiences stress, it can affect their entire body, including the health of their thyroid gland. The relationship between stress and thyroid dysfunction is complex and varied. As you investigate this link, please remember to consider the following points:

Thyroid and stress hormones

When we experience stress, our bodies naturally produce stress hormones like cortisol. When cortisol levels are excessively high, they can disrupt the balance of thyroid hormones in the body. When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol which can affect the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) by the pituitary gland. This can lead to a decrease in the production of thyroid hormone.

Thyroid dysfunction and stress

When someone experiences stress for a prolonged period of time, it can cause hypothyroidism. This is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to function properly. When we are stressed, it can affect our body’s HPT axis, which can lead to a decrease in the production of TSH and the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Stress and hyperthyroidism

On the other hand, stress can lead to or exacerbate hyperthyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by stressful life events, emotional upheaval, or chronic stress in individuals who are susceptible to it. When a person is under stress, their body may produce an excessive number of thyroid hormones, which can lead to an overactive thyroid.

Autoimmune Thyroid Conditions

Long-term stress can also affect the development and progression of autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease. When a person is stressed, it can have an impact on their immune system. This can lead to inflammation and increase the chances of experiencing thyroid autoimmune reactions.

Feedback Loop

Thyroid abnormalities can make stress and anxiety worse. When someone has hypothyroidism, their thyroid hormone levels are low. This can lead to feelings of tiredness, sadness, and difficulty handling stress. When a person has hyperthyroidism, their thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. This can cause them to feel irritable, restless, and anxious, which can increase their stress levels.

Yoga and relaxation techniques are helpful for stress management and thyroid health

Breathing with intention and awareness

• Find a peaceful and cosy spot to either sit or lay down.
• Take a moment to close your eyes and focus on your breath.
• Take slow and deep breaths while focusing on the feeling of the air entering and leaving your body.
• As you take a deep breath, imagine your body being filled with positive energy and vitality.
• As you breathe out, release any tension or stress that you may be holding in your body and let it unwind.
• Take a few minutes to continue breathing mindfully, allowing your mind and body to become peaceful and centred.

Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) is a type of yogic sleep

• Get into a comfortable posture by lying down on your back. You can use pillows or bolsters for support if needed.
• Start by closing your eyes and then focus on relaxing your entire body. Begin with your toes and gradually move upwards towards your head.
• Focus on each part of your body and intentionally let go of any tension or stress you may be holding onto.
• After you have relaxed your body, focus on your breathing and simply observe its natural rhythm.
• When you are in a calm and relaxed state, you can try repeating positive affirmations or imagine healing energy flowing through your thyroid gland.
• Take some time to let your body and mind recharge by relaxing deeply for 15 to 30 minutes.

Restorative Yoga

• To create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, gather a yoga mat, blankets, bolsters, and other props that can offer you comfort and support.
• Some examples of gentle restorative yoga poses include Supported Child’s Pose, Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, and Reclining Bound Angle Pose.
• Take your time and be mindful as you transition into each yoga pose. Utilize props such as blocks or straps to assist your body and achieve a deeper sense of relaxation.
• Focus on your breath and release any tension or stress as you exhale.
• To fully relax and rejuvenate your body, spend 5-10 minutes or more in each pose.
• When practising restorative yoga, it’s important to prioritise relaxation and surrender over exertion or stretching.

Meditation

• Look for a calm and cozy spot to sit, like a chair or a cushion meant for meditation.
• Take a moment to close your eyes and focus your attention on the present moment.
• Select a point of focus for your meditation practice, such as your breath, a mantra, or a particular visualization.
• Let your ideas flow through your mind without any criticism and if your mind gets distracted, gently bring your focus back to the chosen point.
• Start your meditation practice with a short duration of a few minutes and gradually increase it as you become more at ease with the process.

Meditation done on a regular basis can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being. It can also have a positive impact on thyroid function.

When you incorporate these practises into your routine, keep in mind that it’s crucial to be consistent. It is better to focus on being consistent rather than pushing yourself too hard. It’s important to pay attention to your body and adjust your workout routine according to your individual needs and capabilities.

Include Ayurveda and Yoga for Thyroid Problems

Both Ayurveda and yoga take a holistic approach to promoting thyroid health. I have some suggestions for improving your thyroid health by incorporating Ayurvedic principles and yoga practises into your lifestyle.

Maintain a healthy diet

• It is recommended to opt for whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats instead of processed meals.
• If you want to improve your thyroid function, try to include foods that are rich in iodine such as seaweed, iodized salt, and shellfish in your diet.
• It is recommended to reduce your consumption of processed foods, refined sugars, and caffeine as they can negatively affect the function of your thyroid.
• It is recommended to seek advice from an Ayurvedic practitioner who can provide you with personalised dietary recommendations based on your individual constitution (dosha).

Self-care should be practiced on a daily basis

• It’s important to establish a regular routine that incorporates ample sleep, effective stress management techniques, and self-care practises.
• It’s important to prioritise relaxation activities such as yoga, meditation, and pranayama to decrease stress levels and enhance overall well-being.
• Make sure to engage in activities that bring you joy, feed your spirit, and promote a feeling of equilibrium and peace in your daily routine.

Support Digestive Health

• Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for our overall well-being, which also includes the health of our thyroid gland.
• It is advisable to eat your food thoughtfully and chew it carefully to avoid overeating.
• To promote healthy digestion, it is recommended to consume gut-friendly meals that include probiotics like yoghurt and kefir, as well as foods that are rich in fibre.
• If you want to improve your digestive function, you may want to try some Ayurvedic practises like drinking ginger tea, triphala churna, or other herbal formulations.

Make an effort to move your body

• It’s important to exercise regularly to enhance overall health and metabolism.
• When choosing exercises, make sure to pick ones that you find enjoyable and that also improve your flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.
• You can try incorporating yoga poses that are specifically beneficial for the thyroid gland, such as Sarvangasana (shoulder stand), Halasana (plough pose), and Matsyasana (fish pose).

Seek Balance

• Ayurveda emphasises the importance of maintaining balance in every aspect of life.
• It is recommended to steer clear of situations that may cause excessive stress, exhaustion, or emotional instability.
• In order to achieve a sense of balance in your daily routine, it’s important to incorporate mindfulness, self-reflection, and self-care into your life.

Ayurvedic Herbal Support

• Ayurveda offers a range of herbs and herbal formulations that can aid in maintaining good thyroid health.
• There are several Ayurvedic herbs that can help support thyroid health, such as Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Guggulu, and Triphala.
• It is recommended to seek advice from an Ayurvedic practitioner who can help you determine the most suitable herbs and dosages for your specific requirements.

Yoga-inspired dietary guidelines for thyroid function support

When you combine yoga with a healthy diet, it can help to support your thyroid function. If you’re looking to improve your thyroid health, here are some dietary tips inspired by yoga that you may find helpful.

It is recommended to focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins. These foods are important for your overall health and thyroid function because they contain essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber.

Include foods high in iodine

Thyroid hormones require iodine as a component, making iodine crucial for proper thyroid function.
It is recommended to include iodine-rich foods in your diet such as seaweed, seafood (like fish and prawns), dairy products, and iodized salt.

Selenium should be prioritized

Selenium is a mineral that helps in converting T4 (thyroxine) into T3 (triiodothyronine), which is the active form of thyroid hormone.

It is recommended to include foods that are rich in selenium in your diet. Some examples of such foods are Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, mushrooms, and whole grains.

Healthy Fats

It’s important to incorporate healthy sources of fats into your diet, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Our body requires healthy fats to produce hormones and also to help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins that are essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.

Say no to processed food and unhealthy fatty foods

It’s advisable to reduce your intake of processed foods and sugary items. It’s advisable to reduce your intake of processed foods, refined sugars, and sugary drinks. These things can worsen inflammation and cause problems with thyroid function.

Mindful Eating

When you practise mindful eating, you focus on being aware of your body’s signals for hunger and fullness while you eat.

Make sure to chew your food thoroughly, taking your time and enjoying each bite.
Practising mindfulness while eating can be helpful for better digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Hydration

Make sure to drink enough water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated. Staying hydrated is important for our body to function properly. It helps with things like producing and transporting hormones.

Considerations from an Ayurvedic perspective

According to Ayurveda, individuals have different body constitutions known as doshas. It is recommended to see an Ayurvedic practitioner who can help you determine your dosha and provide personalized dietary recommendations to improve your thyroid health and maintain balance.

You may also want to read about using Ayurveda to manage thyroid disorders

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