The thyroid gland is an organ that is at the base of the neck. It produces and releases hormones which will keep your metabolism well and regulate different body functions. Some of those are:
- Skin integrity
- Breathing
- Heart rate
- Body weight
- Body temperature
- Muscle strength
- Central and peripheral nervous system
- Cholesterol level
- Menstrual cycle
How the Thyroid Gland Works
The thyroid is a part of the endocrine system. This system contains glands that produce, store and release hormones in the blood and in this way they allow them to reach the body’s cells. This small gland utilizes the iodine from food sources to produce Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4).
The hypothalamus produces TSH which is a hormone that signals the pituitary to tell the thyroid to produce less or more of T3 and T4. So, it promotes communication between the two to maintain T3 and T4 balance. So, when both the T3 and T4 levels are low in the blood then the pituitary gland will produce more THS to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones. Moreover, if these levels are high then the pituitary gland will release less TSH to the thyroid and it will slow down the production of thyroid hormones.
The most common thyroid condition is called hypothyroidism, which is a result of too little T3 and T4 in the body. The most common symptoms that accompany this condition are:
- Depression
- Dry skin and hair
- Trouble sleeping
- Sensitivity to cold temperature
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Joint pain
- Frequent, heavy periods
Hyperthyroidism is also another condition which results from an overactive thyroid. This one is followed by symptoms like:
- Anxiety
- Hair loss
- Hand trembling
- Irritability or moodiness
- Sweating or sensitivity to high temperatures
- Missed or light menstrual periods
- Nervousness, hyperactivity
The most common treatments for hyperthyroidism are medications, oral radioactive iodine, and surgery. However, there is still a natural way that can help you with this problem, and we are here to present it to you.
The Perfect Recipe to Help Your Thyroid
Cranberries are full of iodine, which is a mineral that is essential for the thyroid health and this is all because thyroid hormones are made up of iodine.
Vitamin C is obtained from lemon and orange juice which are full of antioxidants which will boost the thyroid health.
Ginger is the perfect source of magnesium, which is a mineral that can help in the regulation of thyroid disease.
Cinnamon is a strong anti-inflammatory agent which will lower the risk of hypothyroidism.
Cranberry Thyroid-Boosting Juice
The Ingredients:
- 7 cups spring or filtered water
- 1 cup 100% cranberry juice
- 1/4 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 tbsp dry ginger
- 1/2 tbsp Ceylon cinnamon
- 1/4 tbsp nutmeg
The Instructions:
First, heat the water until it boils. Then, add the cranberry juices and the spices. Let it simmer for 20 minutes and then remove from the stove. Leave it to cool a bit and then add the lemon and orange juice. That is all. Just sip it through the day. It will do wonders for your thyroid health.