Dr. Mark Hyman points out how crucial the thyroid system is to metabolism. Insulin, cortisol and  thyroid hormones combined drive your metabolism and weight.

Dr. Hyman suggests these strategies for coping with your thyroid difficulties:

  1. Eliminate the causes of thyroid problems by purging your diet and body of troublemakers.
  • Gluten can hamper thyroid function and metabolism if you’re sensitive. Get tested to see if gluten is a problem for you.
  • Work with your doctor to pinpoint any other food sensitivities that may be hindering your thyroid.
  • Check for pesticides and toxins. Support your body’s natural detoxification system with organic foods, and filtered water.
  • Take measures to de-stress.
  1. Regular Exercise and Saunas

Stimulate thyroid gland secretion with consistent, vigorous exercise and follow with saunas or steam baths to flush pesticides that may be facilitating the thyroid problem.

  1. Only Eat Foods That Support for Your Thyroid

Proper nutrition is paramount. The thyroid needs iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, vitamins A and D, as well as zinc to work the way it should. A whole-food, clean, organic diet will be beneficial.

Include these thyroid-boosting foods in your diet:

  • seaweed and sea vegetables, which contain iodine
  • fish (especially sardines and salmon)
  • dandelion, mustard, and other dark leafy greens
  • smelt, herring, scallops, and Brazil nuts
  1. Use Thyroid-Supporting Supplements

Include key nutrients by taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement that containing selenium, iodine, zinc, vitamins A and D, and omega 3 fats (fish oil). Combine these with the relaxation and adaptogenic herbs (such as rhodiola and Siberian ginseng). To avoid a poor reaction, Dr Hyman suggests working closely with someone experienced in meeting nutritional needs for the thyroid and adrenal glands.

  1. Have Your Thyroid Tested

There is no one way to properly diagnose low thyroid function or hypothyroidism. Insist that your doctor look at a wide range of factors and your whole body picture, including symptoms and blood tests, before reaching a conclusion.

Read the full article here: 6 Steps to Heal Your Thyroid