6 Ways to Increase Thyroid Hormones Naturally

Thyroid hormones are vital for your body as they are responsible for overall growth and metabolism. If your thyroid gland does not produce sufficient hormones, you may suffer from a condition called hypothyroidism. Likewise, an overactive thyroid gland that produces excess thyroid hormones leads to a condition called hyperthyroidism. Statistics reveal that about 42 million Indians are affected by thyroid diseases [1].

The most common symptoms of thyroid disorders include the following.

Hyperthyroidism:

• Unexplainable weight loss
• Weakness in muscles
• Anxiety attacks
• Irregularities in menstrual cycles

Hypothyroidism:

• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Heavy periods

An imbalance in the production of these hormones not only affects your physical well-being, but also affects your mental health. While treatments are available to correct thyroid disorders, you can also adopt natural ways to increase thyroid hormones in your body. If you are wondering, ‘Can you increase your thyroid levels naturally?’, the answer is yes. Read on to know more.

Consume iodine-rich foods to boost your thyroid function

Iodine is an important mineral to add to your meals to increase thyroid hormone levels. Without iodine, your body will not be able to synthesize thyroid hormones. This can lead to hypothyroidism [2]. Even though it is a trace element, it is one of the most essential building blocks in thyroid hormone production.

Two of the hormones in your body that contain iodine include triiodothyronine or T3 and thyroxine or T4. They get absorbed in your digestive tract. So, you need to make sure that you maintain a healthy gut. One of the most common foods rich in iodine is table salt. However, don’t consume excess amounts of iodine as it can damage your thyroid gland. Other iodine-rich foods are eggs, dairy products and fish.

Include selenium to improve your thyroid hormone metabolism

If you are wondering what increases thyroid levels, including minerals like selenium in your diet can serve the purpose. This mineral is an essential component as it helps in activating thyroid hormones. Since it is packed with antioxidants, it protects the thyroid gland from getting damaged by free radicals. This trace element plays a vital role during the conversion of thyroid hormones from T4 to T3 [3].

Eat selenium-rich foods like:

• Fish
• Avocados
• Walnuts
• Mushrooms

Increase thyroid hormone production in your body by eating zinc-rich foods

Zinc also plays a role similar to selenium, which is the activation of thyroid hormones. This mineral also aids in regulating thyroid-stimulating hormones. TSH hormone is essential as it tells your thyroid gland when to secrete hormones. The answer to your question, ‘Why thyroid level increases?’ is dependent on the functioning of TSH.

Have foods rich in zinc like:

• Red meat
• Lentils
• Seafood

Improve thyroid hormone levels by incorporating essential fats

It is important that you include essential fats as part of your daily meals. Some of the food products rich in essential fats include:

• Unsalted nuts
• Olive oil (extra-virgin)
• Avocados
• Raw unsalted seeds
• Oily fish

Taking these essential fats helps in increasing your thyroid hormone levels. These fats facilitate your cells to accept more thyroid hormones.

Boost your thyroid levels with cold therapy

This is a unique technique that stimulates your adrenal glands. They function in combination with the thyroid gland to produce hormones. This therapy includes taking a cold shower specifically exposing areas like your lower back and your middle. You can also boost your thyroid hormone production by taking a cold shower after a warm bath.

Reduce your stress levels by practicing meditation and exercise

The easiest way to increase thyroid hormones is to maintain an active lifestyle and minimize your stress. Doing exercise especially in the early morning hours helps in boosting your metabolism. It also stimulates your gland to produce needed hormones. Stress can inhibit hormone production as it increases cortisol in your body. Reduce stress by practicing meditation or yoga.

Now that you understand how to increase your thyroid naturally, go for routine thyroid tests to see if your thyroid levels are in control. Check in with a doctor regularly if you are facing any symptoms of thyroid disease. Connect with the closest and best specialists on Bajaj Finserv Health. Book an online doctor consultation with an endocrinologist and address your concerns from the comfort of your home.