Graves’ Disease: 10 Natural Ways to Combat it
Graves disease is not a one-size fits all condition. Radiation therapy, surgery, and medications are all options for treatment. Graves disease can be controlled with medications. Radiation therapy is used to destroy thyroid tissue that has become overactive. Surgery is sometimes necessary when the overactive thyroid tissue has been located in an unsafe place such as the windpipe. (6)
Home remedies
There is no cure for Graves’ disease. However, there are many home remedies which can be used to manage the symptoms. (7)
Manage stress
Graves’ disease is a thyroid disorder that can lead to an overactive gland. This can cause a variety of symptoms including anxiety and depression. Although there is currently no cure for Graves’ disease, managing stress may help alleviate some symptoms. Exercise, relaxation techniques and journaling are all ways to reduce stress. Rest and eat healthy food. You may find it helpful to consult a professional if you are finding stress difficult to handle on your own.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is one of the best things that a person suffering from Graves can do. Exercise can keep thyroids healthy, and help control symptoms of Graves’ disease. Exercise regulates the metabolism of the body. Exercise is essential for those with Graves Disease. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are important for maintaining health and controlling the disease.
Eat an anti-inflammatory Diet
Eating an anti-inflammatory food can help you manage symptoms. A healthy diet that emphasizes whole, unprocessed food is an anti-inflammatory one. Low in sugar, refined carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats. Anti-inflammatory diets can reduce inflammation, and therefore help manage Graves disease symptoms.
Many delicious foods are anti-inflammatory. Fruits and vegetables, olive oil and healthy oils, fish, seafood, grass-fed meat and poultry and whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice are all good options.
Eliminate toxic substances
Graves’ disease is treated by medications that reduce thyroid hormone production. You can also take steps to eliminate toxins that could contribute to graves disease.
A healthy diet is one way to remove toxins from the body. Consuming plenty of green leafy veggies and fruits will help flush out toxins. Avoid processed foods, foods with high saturated fats and sugars. Drinking plenty of water is another way to remove toxins. To help eliminate toxins, drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Regular exercise is another great way to remove toxins from the body.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is one way to treat Graves disease. The toxins that are produced by an overactive thyroid gland can be flushed out with fluids. Dehydration can worsen a fever. When you have graves’ disease, water is the best fluid. If you do not like water, or you are having difficulty drinking enough fluids you can drink broth, fruit juice or sports drinks.
Selenium
This mineral is found in the crust of the Earth. The body needs only a tiny amount to function. The thyroid gland needs selenium to function properly.
It has been proven that selenium is helpful in treating Graves’ disease. In a study published in 2009, selenium supplements were effective in reducing immune system activity and restoring thyroid function to people with Graves’ disease.
