Revitalizing Your Thyroid: Here's How to Do It

The thyroid gland (also known as the thyroid) is an essential part of the human endocrine system, located at the front of the neck. It releases hormones that significantly influence metabolic rate and affect the growth and function of many body systems. Iodine is a critical component of thyroid hormones and is integral to treating thyroid issues. The most common thyroid problems are underactivity (hypothyroidism) and overactivity (hyperthyroidism).

These days, various lifestyle factors can harm the thyroid gland:

1. There might be an iodine deficiency, as mentioned earlier, since it's a component of thyroid hormones. Iodine can be ingested via capsules of iodine-rich seaweed or by consuming foods with high iodine content (iodized salt, eggs, sardines, etc.), only if a doctor diagnoses thyroid underactivity.

2. Drinking tap water, often sourced from iodine-poor desalinated seawater, and water saturated with fluoride and chlorine – unfortunately, not beneficial for our bodies. Chlorine and fluoride compete with iodine, impairing thyroid hormone production and, consequently, metabolism. It's crucial to consume only high-quality filtered water (reverse osmosis or mineral water).

3. It has been found that approximately 50% of thyroid diseases are autoimmune (very common in Western societies) – mainly due to gluten sensitivity (a protein found in grains – wheat, spelt, rye, barley) being the main culprit affecting the thyroid. Unfortunately, many children with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity consume harmful products and frequently use gluten substitutes, which are themselves antigenic (like oat gluten and corn gluten). For prevention, it's vital to consume only products made from rye or spelt flour not genetically modified or engineered, and include in cooking: buckwheat, quinoa, brown rice, and various legumes.

4. Certain emotional states over the years can also weaken the thyroid, as it is located near the vocal organs, and trapping negative emotions in the throat may lead to weakening it – in such cases, emotional therapy is advised.

Additional reasons linked to thyroid problems include: taking various hormonal pills or hormones from food (given to animals), extensive antibiotic use in humans and agriculture, and consuming medications that affect the digestive system (stomach acidity). Wishing you good health with Hashem's help.

To book home seminars with naturopath Ruth Liat Peled(free of charge), call 073-2221290