You could try having sea vegetables like kelp, nori, and kombu at least once a day. Sprinkle kelp over your salads or soups for added iodine. Add kombu to your beans or meat. Wrap foods in nori. Add nuts and seeds to stir fries, quinoa, and salads.
You can also try taking a yoga class to help you stay active and to reduce your stress levels. Look for yoga classes at your local gym or yoga studio.
If you live in an area that gets very little direct sunlight, especially during the winter months, speak to your doctor about taking Vitamin D supplements.
You can also do deep breathing exercises to help reduce your stress levels or take a weekly yoga class.
Once you begin taking medication, your symptoms should start to improve within 3-5 days. The medication should be fully effective in 4-6 weeks. [10] X Research source Always follow your doctor’s instructions on dosage. Never take more than the recommended dose of the medication. Thyroid medication must be taken for life to maintain lower TSH levels, but luckily, it is relatively inexpensive. Your doctor will break down the exact costs for the medication.
Fast or irregular heart rate Chest pain and/or difficulty breathing Fever, hot flashes, and/or excessive sweating Feeling unusually cold Weakness, tiredness, and/or sleep problems Memory problems, feeling depressed, or feeling irritable Muscle aches Dryness of skin, dryness of hair, or hair loss Changes in your menstrual periods Vomiting, diarrhea, appetite changes, and or weight changes[12] X Research source
Speak to your doctor if you are on other medications or supplements before you take thyroid medication. [14] X Expert Source Damaris Vega, MDBoard Certified Endocrinologist Expert Interview. 11 November 2020. Generally, thyroid medication is most effective when taken on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before eating.
You can be prescribed these “natural” alternative medication options in either extract or desiccated form. If you’re interested in learning more, ask your doctor about Armour Thyroid, a natural thyroid extract that is available by prescription. [16] X Research source
After one to two months on the medication at the correct dose, your symptoms should improve and you should feel less tired. Your eating habits and weight should also improve.
You may need to get your levels tested more frequently if you’re on a new dose of levothyroxine. Taking thyroid hormone replacement medication is a lifelong requirement for people with hypothyroidism. Do not stop taking your medication if you start to feel better, as your symptoms will likely return.
