Hyperthyroid – Graves Disease

Hyperthyroid – Graves Disease is a form of hyperthyroidism which is caused by the immune system. The immune system can become overactive due to nutrient deficiencies (vitamin D, magnesium, iodine etc), digestive issues (such as leaky gut or dysbiosis), toxic metal exposure (especially mercury) or infections (HSV, EBV). The thyroid controls many parts of the body but it is most known for its ability to regulate metabolism, hormone production, body temperature, heart rate, energy, and brain health.

Hyperthyroidism is where the thyroid starts overproducing thyroid hormones. This can cause many symptoms most commonly: weight loss, racing heartbeat/palpitations, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, goitre, sweating, high blood pressure, frequent bowel movements, tremor, menstrual cycle changes, racing thoughts, rapid speech etc.

 

Testing:

  • Thyroid: TSH, FT3, FT4, rT3
  • Immune: Autoimmune immune antibodies
  • Infections: HSV, EBV
  • Toxic metals: HTMA (http://www.interclinical.com.au/hairtissue.php). This test also looks at important minerals such as iron, selenium, magnesium and zinc)
  • Vitamins: Vitamin D and B12.
  • Gene: MTHFR especially if metals are indicated
  • Food intolerances: if you suspect any
  • Body composition testing (to keep an eye on weight changes)
  • Body temperature testing

Diet: 

  • Increase goitrogen foods (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips and sweet potato)
  • Try to eat as much organic food as possible but especially eggs and meats.
  • Stay hydrated, increase water if needed.
  • Decrease caffeinated and carbonated drinks
  • Avoid gluten and casein. Both have a direct linked with auto-immune conditions.
  • Increase antioxidant containing foods such as fruit, vegetables, and salads.
  • Reduce sugary, processed foods.
  • Increase beneficial fats (eggs, avocado, olives, seafood, nuts, seeds etc)
  • Eat adequate protein.
  • If you have a history of EBV or HSV increase coconut oil and lysine-containing foods
  • Make sure you are getting plenty of fibre in your diet.
  • Eliminate any suspected food intolerances

Supplements to consider:

  • B vitamins especially B12
  • CoQ10
  • Vitamin D
  • Probiotics
  • Anti-oxidants especially Vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid or glutathione
  • L-carnitine
  • Magnesium
  • Fish oil
  • General multi

Herbs to consider:
Lemon balm, Bugleweed, Motherwort