Thyroid dysfunction has become an ‘epidemic’ affecting mostly women.
The thyroid gland is the biggest gland in the neck. It is located in the front neck below the skin and muscle layers. The thyroid gland takes the shape of a butterfly with the two wings being represented by the left and right thyroid lobes which wrap around the trachea. The sole function of the thyroid is to produce thyroid hormones for which it uses iodine. These hormones regulate the metabolism and influence growth and other important body functions.
Proper thyroid function depends on many factors and most of us are unaware that there are a few common household items that can seriously hamper its function. Luckily, we can reduce the risk of thyroid complications by minimizing our exposure to these toxic items.
Plastic
Plastic is not only harmful for the environment, but also for your overall health, including your thyroid health. The chemical released from plastic bottles, antimony, is just one problem.
A study conducted by the University of Copenhagen found that antimony levels found in juice stored in plastic bottles was 2.5% higher than the level considered safe. In addition, BPA and phthalates also drastically reduce thyroid function.
Soybean
Research confirms that soy protein neutralizes thyroid peroxidase. Phytoestrogens, proteins found in soy, act as thyroid-disrupting agents because they inhibit the secretion of thyroid hormone and prevent the body from metabolizing iodine.
Halogen
Fluorine and chlorine are actually halogens, which are normally absorbed through food, water and even the environment. Fluorides and chlorides prevent the normal function of the thyroid gland. Excessive exposure to these halogens can lead to iodine transport disruption.
Bromine
Bromine is harmful for the thyroid gland and is found in almost everything from pool cleaning agents to some foods. Even healthy people can often have increased bromine levels.
Pesticides
One study found that about 60% of the pesticides ingested daily through diet adversely affect the proper function of the thyroid gland. Studies have shown that antifungal pesticides and chemicals used to protect against weed reduce the function of this gland and inhibit fat burning, thus preventing weight loss.
Perchlorates
Perchlorate is a waste product generated from the combustion of fuel. It is generally believed that almost everyone has perchlorate in their bodies, because this substance is found in water used for irrigation of fruits and vegetables, and even in drinking water.
This article offers an all-natural recipe that will improve your overall health and address any thyroid problem that may develop.
RECIPE
What you need:
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 3 oranges)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- ¼ tablespoon ground ginger
- ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 7 cups filtered water
- ¼ tablespoon nutmeg powder
What you do:
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and slowly add the cranberry juice, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg sea.
- Stir and let the mixture simmer quietly for 20 minutes.
- Then remove the pot from fire and let it cool to room temperature.
- When completely cool, add the orange and lemon juice.
- Add ice cubes and enjoy your drink!
