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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
