Did you know that women are more predisposed to thyroid issues, five to eight times likelier than men to experience them? Remarkably, one out of every eight women will encounter a thyroid disorder in her lifetime. Surprisingly, up to 60% of those affected by thyroid diseases remain unaware of their condition. Quite concerning, isn’t it?
Now, let’s delve into thyroid conditions. In this article, we’ll delve into the indicators of hypothyroidism, prevalent causes, and approaches to fostering optimal thyroid function from the perspective of Ayurvedic treatment.
What is Thyroid?
The thyroid bears a crucial role in regulating metabolism by generating and releasing metabolic hormones. In the realm of Ayurveda, hormones, and metabolism align with the principles of pitta dosha. The thyroid’s metabolic function resonates with Ayurvedic notions of Agni, often called the digestive fire.
Notably, the thyroid gland stands as a pivotal and delicate endocrine gland. It’s particularly responsive to stress, a factor contributing to the swift surge in global hypothyroidism prevalence.
What is Hypothyroidism?
The most prevalent thyroid illness, hypothyroidism, is expected to affect six to ten percent of women. It is also known as an underactive thyroid. Hashimoto’s autoimmune disorder is the most frequent cause of primary hypothyroidism.
An underactive thyroid is considered a kapha ailment in Ayurveda. Heavy and slow are the features of Kapha, which match the signs of hypothyroidism. Manda agni, or slow metabolism, is a characteristic of people with a Kapha imbalance and those with a Kapha imbalance.
The Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism
- Vertigo
- Weakness And Exhaustion
- Weight Gain And Difficult Weight Loss
- Tendency To Become Constipated
- Tendency To Experience Sadness
- Resistance To The Cold
- Coarse, Fragile, Or Dull Hair
- Skin That Is Rough, Dry, And Has Cracked Heels
- Nails That Are Fragile, Breaking, Bent, Or Ridged
- Rounded, Swollen Face
- Puffy Around The Eyes Or Saggy Eyelids
- Poor Hair Growth On Lower Legs Or The Loss Of The Outer Third Of The Brows
- Redness On The Neck’s Front Skin
- Enlarged/Fluffy Legs Or Ankles
- Slow Heart Rate While At Rest (Less Than 65)
Causes of Hypothyroidism
- Autoimmune
- Hashimoto’s
- Iodine deficiency
- Medications
- Radiation
- Pituitary dysfunction
- Congenital
- Aging
- Surgery
- Stress
Ayurvedic Treatment for Hypothyroidism
In Ayurveda, the balance of three vital energies or doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—is essential for optimal health. Hypothyroidism is often attributed to an imbalance in the Kapha and Vata doshas, leading to reduced metabolism, fatigue, and sluggishness.
1. Diet and Nutrition
Ayurvedic treatment places significant emphasis on a diet to maintain balance in the body. For hypothyroidism, focus on foods that stimulate metabolism and support thyroid function:
- Iodine-Rich Foods: Include iodine-rich foods like sea vegetables (kelp, nori), iodized salt, and seafood to support thyroid hormone production.
- Warm and Spicy Foods: Incorporate warming spices like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to boost digestion and metabolism.
- Nourishing Foods: Opt for whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh vegetables to provide essential nutrients to the body.
2. Lifestyle Modifications
Ayurveda promotes daily routines that align with the body’s natural rhythms. Establishing healthy lifestyle habits can positively impact thyroid function:
- Morning Routine: Begin your day with a glass of warm water and lemon to aid digestion and kickstart metabolism.
- Yoga and Exercise: Engage in gentle yoga poses and exercises that stimulate the thyroid gland, improve circulation, and reduce stress.
- Adequate Rest: Prioritize quality sleep to support overall hormonal balance and allow the body to rejuvenate.
3. Herbal Remedies
Ayurvedic herbs can play a significant role in managing hypothyroidism:
- Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb helps balance hormones, reduces stress, and supports thyroid function.
- Guggul: Guggul resin is known to enhance thyroid hormone uptake and metabolism.
- Triphala: This herbal blend aids digestion and promotes detoxification, crucial for thyroid health.
4. Stress Management
Stress can exacerbate thyroid imbalances. Ayurvedic treatment recommends techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness to manage stress and promote emotional well-being.
5. Detoxification
Toxins can interfere with thyroid function. Ayurvedic treatments such as Panchakarma therapy, help remove accumulated toxins from the body and restore balance.
6. Consultation with an Ayurvedic Doctor
Individual constitution (Prakriti) plays a vital role in Ayurveda. Consulting an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner can help tailor a personalized approach to managing hypothyroidism based on your unique constitution and imbalances.
Ayurvedic treatment offers a comprehensive approach to managing hypothyroidism by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body. Through dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, stress management, and detoxification, individuals can work toward restoring thyroid function and overall well-being.
While Ayurveda can complement conventional treatments, it’s essential to consult Ayurvedic doctors to make informed decisions regarding your health. Remember, every individual is unique, and a personalized approach is key to achieving the best results.
