What is hypothyroidism?

 

The thyroid gland is a large endocrine gland that secretes hormones which regulates body metabolism and thus, control many physiological functions including body temperature and energy.  Thyroid hormones also help maintain normal blood pressure, heart rate, blood calcium levels, and body fats.

 

Hypothyroidism occurs when there is insufficient production of thyroid hormone in the body by the thyroid glands.  When this happens, it will disrupt the efficiency of the cells to convert oxygen and calories into energy that our body needs. 

 

This also creates a chain reaction of impairment of other hormonal performance and can result to weight gain despite exercise and a low-fat diet.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

 

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
It is a disease when cells in the immune system inappropriately attack and cause damage to the cells of the thyroid.

 

• Exposure to radiation
Too much exposure to radiation for head and neck cancers may cause hypothyroidism.

 

• Medications for hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is the opposite of hypothyroidism.  It occurs when thyroid glands excessively secrete hormones.  If a patient takes too much medicine for an overactive thyroid, it might result to hypothyroidism instead.

 

• Iodine deficiency
Iodine is an important element that helps the thyroid gland to efficiently produce thyroid hormones.

 

• Thyroid Operations
This is when thyroid glands are surgically removed because of tumors found in the glands.

 

Complications

The different systems in our body work together, if one part is inflicted by a disease; it affects many other parts. So, untreated hypothyroidism could lead to other health complications such as:

• Goiter
It is the enlargement of the thyroid gland due to exerting too much effort in releasing thyroid hormones.

 

• Heart
A malfunctioning thyroid gland could not easily regulate the occurrence of bad cholesterol in the body.  Because of this, the circulatory system is impaired and may cause heart diseases.

 

• Mental health issues
Depression may happen during hypothyroidism and may become more severe in the long run. Hypothyroidism can also slow down mental performance.

 

• Birth defects
Babies born to mothers with thyroid problems are more prone to serious complications with their physical and intellectual development.

 

Coconut oil and thyroid

Certified nutritionist and naturopathic physician, Dr. Bruce Fife emphasized in his articles and studies that coconut oil alone is not a cure for hypothyroidism but plays a major part in a thyroid-enhancing program.  In some cases, going through this program may even help bring about complete recovery of a patient.  May it be cleared too, that coconut oil is food and not a medication.

Why is coco oil helpful to those who suffer dysfunctional thyroids?

Medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) are main components that make coconut oil beneficial to beauty, nutrition, and health.  These are very soluble fats that make digestion easier and would effect to more efficient conversion of food/fats to nutrients and energy. In addition to that, MCFAs facilitate in the calorie burning activity of the digestive system which helps a person to lose weight gradually.

Coconut oil is 48% lauric acid and is said to be the most important medium chain fatty acid.  Lauric acid aids in boosting metabolism since it is believed to activate 20% of thyroid hormones because of the enzymes it releases in the intestinal tract.

Since the main effect of coconut oil is an improved digestive system, it can also reduce the risk of the complications brought about by hypothyroidism especially heart problems.  This is because the fat in coconut oil is easily converted into energy and not body fats that can disrupt the blood vessels and the entire circulatory system as a whole. 

A better digestion also influences the neurotransmitters that transmit nerve impulses, hence, a more developed mental performance.

How do you benefit from coconut oil for thyroid?

One can practice coco oil diet for a healthier lifestyle.

• Change your cooking oil with refined coconut oil.
• Take virgin coconut oil as food supplement syrup.  An average person needs 3.5 tablespoons of coconut oil a day.  You can directly ingest it like any syrup or as an additional flavor to some cold beverages.

Note: Dr. Fife advises that one must take coconut oil in moderation for taking too much coco oil might also lead to hyperthyroidism or the condition when thyroid glands are over active.  A doctor must then closely monitor the patient’s condition.

 

 

Coconut oil thyroid related articles:

 

Coconut oil and candida, learn how coconut oil can cure candidiasis. This article will help you understand the benefits of using coco oil in treating this disease.

 

Coconut oil cholesterol, read this article and learn why coconut oil will not increase bad cholesterol level. Be aware of health issues that are cause by bad cholesterol and know the benefits of using coconut cooking oil.