Natural Remedies for Managing Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to overproduce thyroid hormones, a condition known as hyperthyroidism. This can result in symptoms like rapid heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety, and bulging eyes. While traditional treatments for Graves’ disease often involve medication, radioactive iodine, or even surgery, many people seek complementary and natural remedies to support their thyroid health and manage symptoms.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Approach

Approximately 40-50% of people with Graves’ disease turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help manage symptoms. These natural remedies include vitamins, supplements, diet, and lifestyle changes that support thyroid function and balance the immune system.

Vitamins and Supplements for Graves’ Disease

Certain vitamins and supplements can support thyroid health, calm inflammation, and regulate the immune response in those with Graves’ disease. Here are some of the most commonly recommended natural remedies:

Selenium

• Why it’s important: Selenium plays a crucial role in thyroid hormone metabolism and helps reduce thyroid antibodies, particularly thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI), which are elevated in Graves’ disease.
• Recommended dosage: 200 mcg/day.
• References: Studies show that selenium supplementation can lower TSI levels, reduce inflammation, and help with symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Selenium 200 mcg

Vitamin D

• Why it’s important: Low levels of Vitamin D are often linked with autoimmune diseases, including Graves’ disease. It supports the immune system and may help modulate an overactive thyroid.
• Recommended dosage: 2000-5000 IU/day (based on blood levels).
• References: Several studies suggest that optimizing Vitamin D levels may help balance immune responses and reduce thyroid-related symptoms.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Mega D-3 & MK-7 5000 IU

Magnesium

• Why it’s important: Magnesium helps regulate thyroid function and plays a role in calming the nervous system, which is crucial for those with anxiety and restlessness caused by hyperthyroidism.
• Recommended dosage: 200-400 mg/day.
• References: Magnesium supplementation has been shown to support overall health in those with thyroid dysfunction, improving symptoms like muscle weakness and fatigue.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Magnesium Citrate

Zinc

• Why it’s important: Zinc supports the immune system and helps with thyroid hormone metabolism. Zinc deficiency is common in those with thyroid disorders and can impair thyroid function.
• Recommended dosage: 25-30 mg/day.
• References: Research shows that zinc supplementation may improve thyroid function, especially in people who are deficient.
• Recommended Supplement: Garden of Life Raw Zinc

L-Carnitine

• Why it’s important: L-Carnitine is an amino acid that has been found to counteract the effects of excess thyroid hormones, particularly hyperthyroidism. It can help reduce symptoms like palpitations, anxiety, and muscle weakness.
• Recommended dosage: 2000-4000 mg/day.
• References: Research suggests that L-Carnitine can help manage hyperthyroid symptoms by blocking the effects of thyroid hormones at a cellular level. It’s important to start at a lower dose and monitor your body’s response. Gradually increasing if necessary.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods L-Carnitine 1000 mg

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Why it’s important: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe inflammation caused by an overactive thyroid.
• Recommended dosage: 1000-3000 mg/day.
• References: Omega-3s may help reduce inflammation and improve thyroid function in autoimmune conditions like Graves’ disease.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Omega-3 1000mg

Probiotics

• Why it’s important: Gut health is essential for immune balance. Probiotics can support gut health and help modulate the immune response in autoimmune diseases.
• Recommended dosage: A high-quality probiotic with multiple strains, 10-50 billion CFUs/day.
• References: Probiotics may reduce inflammation and support overall immune function in people with Graves’ disease.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Probiotic Defense

Recommended Diets for Graves’ Disease

Dietary changes are essential in managing Graves’ disease, as the right foods can reduce inflammation and support thyroid health. Here are some dietary approaches commonly recommended:

1. Paleo Diet: This diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods like lean meats, fish, vegetables, and fruits. By eliminating processed foods, grains, and dairy, it helps reduce inflammation and support thyroid function.
   • The Complete Paleo Cookbook for Beginners
2. Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet: This is a more restrictive version of the Paleo diet designed specifically for autoimmune conditions. It eliminates potential allergens and inflammatory foods to calm the immune system and support gut health.
   • The Autoimmune Protocol Made Simple
3. Gluten-Free Diet: Many individuals with Graves’ disease are sensitive to gluten. A gluten-free diet may reduce inflammation and improve thyroid function by alleviating the immune response.
   • Gluten Free for Beginners
4. Mediterranean Diet: Rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fish, olive oil, and leafy greens, the Mediterranean diet promotes overall well-being and heart health, which is crucial for people with Graves’ disease.
   • The Mediterranean Diet for Beginners
5. The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet: The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet focuses on calming inflammation and supporting thyroid health by incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, and omega-3-rich fish, while avoiding triggers like gluten, processed foods, and excessive caffeine. This diet aims to stabilize thyroid hormone production and improve overall well-being in individuals with hyperthyroidism.
   • The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet

Other Natural Remedies for Graves Disease

• Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate hyperthyroidism. Mind-body practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help lower stress and balance thyroid function.
• Regular Exercise: Moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling can improve metabolism and reduce symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Be cautious with high-intensity workouts, as they can exacerbate fatigue and other symptoms.
• Adequate Sleep: Graves’ disease can disrupt sleep patterns. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to help balance hormones and support immune function.
• PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Therapy: Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy can help reduce inflammation and regulate energy production at the cellular level. Many individuals with autoimmune diseases, including Graves’ disease, report improvements in fatigue, anxiety, and overall well-being with regular PEMF use.

By incorporating these natural remedies alongside traditional treatments, individuals with Graves’ disease can manage their symptoms more effectively. With the right combination of vitamins, supplements, diet, and lifestyle changes, it’s possible to support thyroid health and improve your overall well-being. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment plan.

This website may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through them. This information is for educational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice. Always check with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.