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What is a Thyroid Booster?

Shannon Philpott
Shannon Philpott

A thyroid booster is a natural supplement designed to boost thyroid function for individuals suffering from hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid is underactive and does not produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, decreased energy, low metabolism levels and enlarged thyroid glands. Thyroid boosters, such as iodine blockers, reduce the effects of food that decreases thyroid function.

Some thyroid booster products, fat-burning supplements and weight-reducing supplements come in pill form from private manufacturers. Patients should be advised that many of these supplements are not regulated by any government agency. Natural herbs might be a better option as a thyroid booster.

Cauliflower is considered a natural thyroid booster.
Cauliflower is considered a natural thyroid booster.

Iodine-rich herbs, such as kelp, sea salts and fish sauce help to maintain a healthy thyroid function. These herbs are available in pill or liquid form at most health food and supplement stores. Iodine-rich herbs have been known to nourish the thyroid gland, boost metabolism and help with weight loss.

Choosing the right vegetables from the garden has been shown to improve thyroid function. Many natural foods serve as thyroid boosters. For example, foods rich in iodine, such as broccoli, turnips, cauliflower and cabbage, naturally work to boost thyroid function. These vegetables should be cooked for maximum health benefits.

Kelp contains iodine and is normally consumed in soups and shredded in salads.
Kelp contains iodine and is normally consumed in soups and shredded in salads.

Another way to boost the thyroid is by avoiding refined foods and vegetable oils. Refined grains and sugars put stress on the thyroid and do not aid with natural thyroid function. Instead of cooking with canola, corn and soy vegetable oils, virgin coconut oil can be used to boost thyroid function. Virgin coconut oil also will reduce fat intake and help patients to reduce weight gain, a common symptom of hypothyroidism.

Minerals and vitamins also work as natural thyroid boosters. Manganese, zinc, selenium and chromium are minerals that support thyroid function. Patients can absorb these minerals in pill or liquid form.

Natural thyroid boosters may be rich in iodine.
Natural thyroid boosters may be rich in iodine.

Vitamin A is one of the most beneficial vitamins for boosting thyroid gland function. Although vitamins B, C and E also are helpful aids, vitamin A in its purest form helps to convert beta-carotene. Those with hypothyroidism often have difficulty converting beta-carotene to pure vitamin A form. A non-synthetic dose of vitamin A will support better functioning of the thyroid.

Iodine-rich herbs are available in pill or liquid form at most health food and supplement stores.
Iodine-rich herbs are available in pill or liquid form at most health food and supplement stores.

Supplementing a healthy diet with a natural or pill-form thyroid booster does not replace prescription medication prescribed by an endocrinologist for thyroid function. Patients should seek the advice of a medical professional before taking a thyroid booster, fat-burning supplement or weight-loss supplement. This will help ensure that the herbs and supplements will not counteract the intended results of the thyroid medication.

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    • Cauliflower is considered a natural thyroid booster.
      By: ExQuisine
      Cauliflower is considered a natural thyroid booster.
    • Kelp contains iodine and is normally consumed in soups and shredded in salads.
      By: HLPhoto
      Kelp contains iodine and is normally consumed in soups and shredded in salads.
    • Natural thyroid boosters may be rich in iodine.
      By: ksena32
      Natural thyroid boosters may be rich in iodine.
    • Iodine-rich herbs are available in pill or liquid form at most health food and supplement stores.
      By: diego cervo
      Iodine-rich herbs are available in pill or liquid form at most health food and supplement stores.
    • An underactive thyroid may cause weight gain, decreased energy, and low metabolism.
      By: lom123
      An underactive thyroid may cause weight gain, decreased energy, and low metabolism.
    • Patients should consult a doctor before taking a thyroid booster.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Patients should consult a doctor before taking a thyroid booster.