HYPERTHYROIDISM

Thyroid gland helps to maintain healthy metabolism (The process by which foods are transformed into basic elements which can be utilized by the body for energy or growth). Hyperthyroidism is the medical term to describe the signs and symptoms associated with an over production of thyroid hormone. It can accelerate your body's metabolism. It simply means overactive thyroid gland. According to Ayurveda, it is caused by the vitiation of pitta (the fire element) and vata (the air element) in the body.

• Avoid food items which enhance the rate of metabolism like caffeine, tea, refined sugar.
• Restriction on iodine is also advisable.
• Add thyroid suppressing foods such as cauliflower, peaches, soybeans and broccoli.
• Eating small meals frequently is another way to continuously supply the body with nutrition that is being lost due to excessive metabolism.
• Consume foods rich in calcium and antioxidants.
• Include enough calcium every day to prevent osteoporosis as hyperthyroidism may contribute to thinning bones.
• Whole grains like millet and brown rice, nuts and seeds are rich sources of zinc, an important element necessary for the body functions that may be depleted due to hyperthyroidism.
• Consume high potency B- complex supplement daily to replace vitamins used up for enhanced metabolism.
• Perform yogic asanas and pranayama regularly which will normalizes the hyperactive active thyroid. The twisting, stretching, and compressing caused by the yoga poses help in providing the endocrine organs with a massage and also improve their functioning. Surya namaskaar, sirshasana, sarvanasana, paschimotanasana, dhaurasana, kapalbhati,  anulom vilom, brahmri etc are very good for hyperthyroidism.
• If it is associated with graves ophthalmopathy or dermopathy, then you can apply cool compresses to your eyes. Extra moisture provides relief. Wearing sunglasses helps protect your eyes from both sun and wind. Use eye drops to lubricate your eyes which will help to relieve dryness and scratchiness. 
• Harar (Myrobalan), pippali (long pepper), shatavari (asparagus racemosus), amla (Indian gooseberry) are good for hypothyroidism. 
• The herb kanchnaar (bauhinia variegate) can be soaked in water overnight and can be taken in the morning.
• Morning walk should be done 
• Try to avoid the stress as much as possible. Lead a stress free life.
• Take adequate sleep.