Sandhya Raghavan
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Written By: Sandhya Raghavan | Updated : November 22, 2017 12:00 PM IST
Hyperthyroidism teaches us that too much of a good thing can be bad! When you have excessive thyroxine in your body, every day is a struggle. You find yourself anxious, nervous, irritable and sleepless. Your life starts revolving around antithyroid pills, which you have to take on an empty stomach every morning, without fail for the rest of your days!
But Ayurveda has a different take on the condition. It believes that some fundamental lifestyle changes can go a long way in mitigating the effects of hyperthyroidism. On World Thyroid Day 2017, holistic wellness expert Shivangi Chatterji from Allayurveda.com, world s first natural wellness platform, explains how Ayurveda can help you manage the thyroid problem.
What is the Ayurvedic view about hyperthyroidism?
Shivangi says, According to Ayurveda, this is related to agni or the digestive fire. In hyperthyroidism, this fire burns out of control causing the metabolic rate to go high up. When metabolism speeds up, we see signs of aggravated Pitta dosha like anger, irritability, rapid heart rate, diarrhoea and flushing to name a few high-heat conditions.
The other dosha that is involved in hyperthyroidism is Vata which governs the neuro-hormonal system. This is the reason why we see symptoms of Vata disturbance like shallow respiration, sleeplessness, low weight, bulging of the eyes, trembling, menstrual disturbance and the like.
What is the best diet for hyperthyroidism according to Ayurveda?
Antioxidants and proteins: You can stop hyperthyroidism from worsening with a well-balanced diet as the disease eats away at your immune system. Eating foods rich in antioxidants like berries, soybeans, spinach, citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, etc. along with high-protein foods like poultry, nuts and seeds can really mitigate the issue. Eating protein-rich foods can help prevent loss of muscle.
Fresh fruits: Include fresh fruits like peaches and pears in your diet to keep hyperthyroidism at bay.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Anti-inflammatory agents like turmeric, oregano, ginger, rosemary, coconut and cinnamon are very beneficial for easing inflammation.
Things to avoid: Avoid taking alcohol, caffeine and nicotine as these can all aggravate the condition. It s a good idea to stay away from iodized salt, sea salt and dairy products. One must also refrain from red meat, refined foods such as sugar, pasta and white bread.
What are the best Yogasanas for hyperthyroidism?
Meditation:Meditation and yoga can be a great way to maintain thyroid health. If you like to meditate, chant Om to balance your breath and your thyroid function.
Pranayam: Sheetali, Sheetkari, Nadi Shodhan, Bhramari and Ujjayi are some Pranayama practices that can heal the thyroid gland.
Asanas: Since the thyroid gland is associated with the Vishuddha or throat chakra, poses like Sun salutation Surya Namaskar done at a slower pace, Shoulder stand (Sarvangasana), Plough (Halasana), Fish (Matsyasana) and Lion (Simhasana) are excellent asanas for those with hyperthyroidism.
What are the best herbs for hyperthyroidism?
Shivangi says, Ayurveda also makes use of certain herbs to bring balance to the thyroid gland. The most powerful herb in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia for hyperthyroid issues is Kanchnaar Guggulu. This resin eliminates toxins from the lymphatic system and reduces inflammation.
Among other Ayurvedic herbs for hyperthyroidism, she names Triphala, Shilajit, Punarnava, Gokshura, Tulsi, Bala, Guduchi and Brahmi which provide symptomatic relief from edema, inflammation, constipation and depression associated with the condition.
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