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Thyroid Nation
What is the thyroid gland?
The thyroid is an endocrine gland that is located right below the larynx, on both sides of the trachea.
The gland surrounds the trachea from the front and is consisted of two lobes forming two wings joined to each other by intermediate part-isthmus. The gland is like a little factory that uses iodine (mostly of seafood and kitchen salt is iodized today) to produce thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate the metabolism in the body and have an impact on growth and other important functions in the body. Many factors influence the work of the thyroid gland. Incredibly, there are seven everyday ingredients in our household that can harm the thyroid gland. Fortunately, we can reduce the risk of developing complications by minimizing our exposure to these toxic compounds.
1) Plastic
Plastic is harmful to the environment, but also for our body, and therefore the entire health of the thyroid gland. The chemical released from plastic bottles, antimony, is just one problem. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Copenhagen found the levels of antimony in juices in plastic bottles was 2.5% higher than the level considered safe. Additionally, BPA and phthalates also significantly reduce the function of the thyroid.
2) Soybeans
It was discovered that soy protein neutralizes the thyroid peroxidase. Phytoestrogens, which are proteins found in soy act as agents that disrupt the function of the thyroid hormone, and block the body’s ability to use iodine.
3) Fluoride
70% of the water-supply in America contains fluoride cavity. Another not known fact is that during the first half of the 20th century, fluoride was prescribed in small doses on a daily basis for a month, in order to treat hyperthyroidism.
4) Halogens
Halogens are actually fluorine and chlorine. These halogens are absorbed through food, water and even the environment. Fluorides and chlorides prevent the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Excessive exposure to these halogens leads to disruption of transport of iodine.
5) Bromine
Bromine is toxic for the thyroid gland and is found in almost everything from cleaners for pool to some foods. Even healthy people can often have elevated levels of this substance in their bodies.
6) Pesticides
One study found that about 60% of pesticides are imported daily through diet, harmfully affect the proper function of the thyroid gland. Studies have shown that the antifungal pesticides and chemicals used against weeds affect the function of this gland and make it difficult to lose weight.
7) Perchlorates
Perchlorate is a waste product generated in the combustion of fuel. CDC claims that almost all people have perchlorate in their bodies, because this substance is found in water used for irrigation of fruits and vegetables, and even in drinking water.
What else can I do to help my thyroid?
This article provides a recipe for a natural drink that will help you strengthen your health and improve the condition of the gland.
Thyroid Recipes:
Drink Ingredients
- 3/4 cups of freshly squeezed orange juice (approximately 3 oranges)
- 1/4 cups of freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 1-2 lemons)
- 1/4 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 7 cups filtered water
- 1/4 tablespoons nutmeg powder
Preparation Put the water to boil. Then lower the heat and slowly add the cranberry juice, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg powder. Stir and allow the mixture to simmer quietly for 20 minutes. Remove the pan from the fire and let it cool to room temperature. When it becomes completely cool, add the orange and lemon juice. Add ice cubes and your healthy drink is ready for drinking.
I am considering making the Thyroid drink recipe.
I can use 1 1/2 tsp. for the 1/2 tbsp. measure, but how much is 1/4 tbsp? 2/3 of a teaspoon?
1/2 tbsp. and 1/4 tbsp. measurements are not standard measures.
Thanks for your help.
My doctor has told me that my thyroid is low. Looking for non-pharmaceutical solutions to help
Fluoride was also prescribed by dentists in the middle of the last century because it was thought to prevent soft teeth and therefore dental decay. Many mothers put drops of fluoride in their kids juice every morning and I was one of those. It probably doesn’t surprise you that most of the females and roughly half the males who had that prescription now have some form of thyroid disease. Doctors dismiss this information as not contributing to thyroid disorders but I think they are clueless.