Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries due to its wonderful health properties, providing antioxidants, as well as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective effects. Diabetes mellitus, on the other hand, is a health problem that affects how your body is able to use and convert sugar from your diet into energy for your cells to function adequately. Considered one of the most common diseases that affects the world’s population today, getting diagnosed with diabetes mellitus involves a wide array of treatments to help regulate blood sugar levels for life, preventing the highly-feared end-organ damage associated with its complications. The good news is that these complications can be prevented with timely and holistic care!
Bonus point! You can actually add honey into your daily routine. What is Honey?
Honey is a nutritious substance that has been transformed by honeybees from nectar produced by flowering plants. Most of the world’s supply of honey is found in Asia, while approximately 4.1% of the honey supply are produced in the United States.1 Different sugars make up 80-85% of its contents (with fructose comprising 21-43%), while the remaining components are made up of water, proteins, and a variety of vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects.1
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic problem that happens when too much sugar is present in the blood due to problems with insulin secretion or resistance. The type that mostly affects the adult population is type 2 diabetes, a condition featured in our previous blog post, and is caused by the dangerous resistance of your organs and tissues against insulin, a hormone that helps them store and replenish their energy for adequate functioning.
The Effects of Honey on Blood Sugar
Consuming honey in moderation can actually have beneficial effects on your blood sugar and insulin levels. Honey has been known to decrease your blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and promoting your body cells’ sensitivity to insulin!1 Additionally, honey can also help in producing hydrogen peroxide, which not only acts similarly to insulin, but also supports your immune system in fighting off infections.2 Consuming honey also helps minimize the production of prostaglandins that inhibit insulin secretion, ensuring adequate levels of insulin are maintained in the body.
Benefits of Honey for Diabetics
Aside from the wonderful effects of honey on blood sugar and insulin levels, this natural substance is safe to consume as an alternative sweetener for when you still want to have that hint of sweetness in your favorite foods and drinks. Fructose, the type of natural sugar found in honey, only has a glycemic index of 19, while glucose (another type of sugar commonly found in most foods you eat everyday) has a glycemic index of 100!2 This means that honey has a lower potential to quickly make your blood sugar levels rise compared to your favorite bread or pasta! In fact, honey’s high fructose content can help reduce dangerous blood sugar spikes through activating a special enzyme (glucokinase) which helps transport glucose into a safe storage site: the liver!1 Additionally, the negative consequences of eating heavy amounts of glucose long-term, such as heart problems and insulin resistance, have not been associated with consuming honey.2
Interestingly, the antioxidant properties of honey also help protect and nurture your pancreas, which is a vital organ that primarily secretes insulin and glucagon, two hormones that maintain optimal levels of sugar in the blood and energy in tissues. Honey shields the pancreas against oxidative stress, preventing organ damage and complications associated with diabetes.2
|
Helps Reduce Cravings |
GLP-1 Boosting Probiotic |
Healthy Glucose Levels |
The Naturopathic Approach
Rather than limiting yourself to taking GLP-1 agonists for weight loss and experiencing its adverse health effects just to achieve your weight goals, naturopathic care offers a natural and holistic approach that nurtures your health without forcing the body past its own healthy, desired weight. Intuitive eating practices offer a revolutionary change towards your eating habits by helping you listen to your body’s natural cues on when to eat and stop eating. Herbs like ginger (Zingiber officinale), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), and bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.), can help naturally increase GLP-1 secretion, so our team will work with these natural remedies to manage blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity.
At Natural Path to Wellness, we will help you explore herbal medications, supplementations, and mind-body practices that will not only help you achieve a healthy body weight, but also promote healthier eating and lifestyle habits for long-term stability. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Collins L, Costello RA. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; February 29, 2024.
- Popoviciu MS, Păduraru L, Yahya G, Metwally K, Cavalu S. Emerging Role of GLP-1 Agonists in Obesity: A Comprehensive Review of Randomised Controlled Trials. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(13):10449. Published 2023 Jun 21. doi:10.3390/ijms241310449
Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland is unable to sufficiently produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones that are needed to regulate different processes within the body. The most famous culprit behind hypothyroidism all over the world is iodine deficiency, which can be preventable through proper supplementation of this vital mineral in the diet. However, the most common causes of an underactive thyroid gland in the United States, as well as most industrialized nations, are autoimmune disorders and treatments of hyperthyroidism.5
Understanding Hypothyroidism
Your thyroid gland plays a vital role in producing hormones that regulate your body’s metabolic rate, energy, growth, and tissue development. To make sure it produces adequate amount of hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine), your hypothalamus regulates the thyroid gland’s activity through releasing thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) which activates thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the pituitary gland to kickstart thyroid hormone production.6 Once sufficient hormone levels are produced, your thyroid gland actually inhibits the production of TRH in the hypothalamus!6 This is one of the wonderful mechanisms present in the body to make sure optimal amounts of hormones are present and prevent excess or deficient hormone levels, which can do more harm than good. In order to create thyroid hormones, your thyroid gland needs tyrosine and iodine. This is precisely why iodine deficiency can also lead to hypothyroidism, since your thyroid gland lacks a vital element it needs to create thyroid hormones.
Types of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs due to different factors and can affect anyone, even newborns! The most common types of hypothyroidism include:
Congenital Hypothyroidism
Newborns and infants are not immune to hypothyroidism, especially when their mothers were previously diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or were able to receive antithyroid medications during pregnancy. Problems with the connection between the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis or hormones that are regulated by this pathway can cause hypothyroidism in children. Abnormal development of the thyroid gland while in the mother’s womb or impaired abilities of the baby to synthesize and process thyroid hormones may also lead to hypothyroidism.7 Babies with hypothyroidism may have feeding problems, delayed bone growth and development, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), neurodevelopmental delays, and enlarged tongue.7 Additionally, children with hypothyroidism are at risk of developing heart problems and malformations. This serves as a reminder to women with thyroid problems who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant to take care of their health, regulate their thyroid hormones, and talk to their healthcare providers and naturopathic doctors on the best holistic practices to nurture their health and baby’s well-being.
Autoimmune Hypothyroidism
Autoimmune hypothyroidism has two subtypes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and atrophic thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the more common type and is typically associated with a goiter (neck mass). Autoimmune hypothyroidism occurs when white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, attack the thyroid gland and destroy thyroid follicles that produce your very own thyroid hormones.5 This eventually leads to the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) and decreased thyroid hormone levels. Take note: this doesn’t happen overnight! Your body has wonderful abilities to fight off this imbalance and attempt to compensate through increasing the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the pituitary gland! To learn more about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, signs and symptoms you should take note of, and the best natural approaches to manage it, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Newborns and infants are not immune to hypothyroidism, especially when their mothers were previously diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or were able to receive antithyroid medications during pregnancy. Problems with the connection between the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis or hormones that are regulated by this pathway can cause hypothyroidism in children. Abnormal development of the thyroid gland while in the mother’s womb or impaired abilities of the baby to synthesize and process thyroid hormones may also lead to hypothyroidism.7 Babies with hypothyroidism may have feeding problems, delayed bone growth and development, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), neurodevelopmental delays, and enlarged tongue.7 Additionally, children with hypothyroidism are at risk of developing heart problems and malformations. This serves as a reminder to women with thyroid problems who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant to take care of their health, regulate their thyroid hormones, and talk to their healthcare providers and naturopathic doctors on the best holistic practices to nurture their health and baby’s well-being.
Autoimmune Hypothyroidism
Autoimmune hypothyroidism has two subtypes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and atrophic thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the more common type and is typically associated with a goiter (neck mass). Autoimmune hypothyroidism occurs when white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, attack the thyroid gland and destroy thyroid follicles that produce your very own thyroid hormones.5 This eventually leads to the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) and decreased thyroid hormone levels. Take note: this doesn’t happen overnight! Your body has wonderful abilities to fight off this imbalance and attempt to compensate through increasing the levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the pituitary gland! To learn more about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, signs and symptoms you should take note of, and the best natural approaches to manage it, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Signs and Symptoms
People with hypothyroidism may experience fatigue, weakness, unintentional weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and intolerance to cold.1 However, symptoms may vary depending on your age, thyroid hormone levels, and sex. In fact, older people with hypothyroidism can have fewer symptoms or experience no symptoms at all!1
|
|
|
|
Risk Factors
Stress
Stress triggers the release of noradrenaline and cortisol, which are hormones that help your body cope up with the increasing demand to maintain balance within. Unfortunately, these hormones can suppress the secretion of your TSH, thereby causing dysfunction in the thyroid gland.3
Iodine Deficiency
The food you eat everyday can actually affect your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Particularly, iodine deficiency has been the leading culprit of hypothyroidism worldwide since millions of people do not get sufficient amounts of iodine in the diet.1 As previously mentioned, iodine is an important element in thyroid hormone synthesis. Hence, lack of this essential element disrupts the essential process in creating thyroid hormones.
One important source of dietary iodine is seaweed and seafood. In the U.S., many people became iodine-deficient due to lacking a diverse diet that included these foods. Because of this, our regular table salt is supplemented with iodine. This means that, more than likely, if you are cooking with standard table salt, or eat a lot of restaurant or processed food, you will not need additional iodine. If, however, most of your foods are cooked at home with mineral-rich sea salt or Himalayan salt, and you are not eating seaweed and seafood regularly, you should ask your health team if you need to supplement since iodine is typically not added to these kinds of salt.
Selenium
Aside from iodine, selenium is another important element that helps convert thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), which is the active form of thyroid hormone that is used up by your cells.2 Once selenium levels in the body are low, this process cannot be facilitated effectively, and your cells will not be able to receive adequate levels of active thyroid hormones for growth and energy.
One natural source of selenium is the Brazil nut!4 Traditionally, just 3 Brazil nuts per day was sufficient to supplement your needed selenium; however, mono-cropping and other big-food-industry changes have led to the soil being stripped of much of the selenium the tree needs to create selenium-rich nuts. Because of this, your naturopathic doctor may make a recommendation to use a selenium supplement with a standardized dose, rather than relying on Brazil nuts with unstable levels. However, for many people, especially those without autoimmunity, the Brazil nut is still a wonderful source and will typically provide sufficient selenium.
Medications
Certain medications can affect your thyroid hormone levels and increase your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Amiodarone, which is a medication used to regulate heart rate in people with cardiac problems, can cause damage to your thyroid gland. This medication can cause iodine overload, which can block the synthesis of your thyroid hormones.1 You might be wondering why this can happen knowing iodine is needed to synthesize thyroid hormones. The answer is: your body also cuts off thyroid hormone production when too much iodine is present to maintain optimal thyroid hormone levels!1 This helps nurture balance within. Additionally, medications used to manage epilepsy, such as carbamazepine and valproate, can decrease thyroid hormone levels and eventually cause hypothyroidism.8
Stress triggers the release of noradrenaline and cortisol, which are hormones that help your body cope up with the increasing demand to maintain balance within. Unfortunately, these hormones can suppress the secretion of your TSH, thereby causing dysfunction in the thyroid gland.3
Iodine Deficiency
The food you eat everyday can actually affect your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Particularly, iodine deficiency has been the leading culprit of hypothyroidism worldwide since millions of people do not get sufficient amounts of iodine in the diet.1 As previously mentioned, iodine is an important element in thyroid hormone synthesis. Hence, lack of this essential element disrupts the essential process in creating thyroid hormones.
One important source of dietary iodine is seaweed and seafood. In the U.S., many people became iodine-deficient due to lacking a diverse diet that included these foods. Because of this, our regular table salt is supplemented with iodine. This means that, more than likely, if you are cooking with standard table salt, or eat a lot of restaurant or processed food, you will not need additional iodine. If, however, most of your foods are cooked at home with mineral-rich sea salt or Himalayan salt, and you are not eating seaweed and seafood regularly, you should ask your health team if you need to supplement since iodine is typically not added to these kinds of salt.
Selenium
Aside from iodine, selenium is another important element that helps convert thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), which is the active form of thyroid hormone that is used up by your cells.2 Once selenium levels in the body are low, this process cannot be facilitated effectively, and your cells will not be able to receive adequate levels of active thyroid hormones for growth and energy.
One natural source of selenium is the Brazil nut!4 Traditionally, just 3 Brazil nuts per day was sufficient to supplement your needed selenium; however, mono-cropping and other big-food-industry changes have led to the soil being stripped of much of the selenium the tree needs to create selenium-rich nuts. Because of this, your naturopathic doctor may make a recommendation to use a selenium supplement with a standardized dose, rather than relying on Brazil nuts with unstable levels. However, for many people, especially those without autoimmunity, the Brazil nut is still a wonderful source and will typically provide sufficient selenium.
Medications
Certain medications can affect your thyroid hormone levels and increase your risks of developing hypothyroidism. Amiodarone, which is a medication used to regulate heart rate in people with cardiac problems, can cause damage to your thyroid gland. This medication can cause iodine overload, which can block the synthesis of your thyroid hormones.1 You might be wondering why this can happen knowing iodine is needed to synthesize thyroid hormones. The answer is: your body also cuts off thyroid hormone production when too much iodine is present to maintain optimal thyroid hormone levels!1 This helps nurture balance within. Additionally, medications used to manage epilepsy, such as carbamazepine and valproate, can decrease thyroid hormone levels and eventually cause hypothyroidism.8
The Naturopathic Approach
Regulating your thyroid hormone levels through holistic and multidisciplinary care is important to achieve remission and prevent complications of hypothyroidism. It is important to remember that your body has the natural ability to heal itself and it is your responsibility to help it regain and nurture this ability. At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to helping you in your journey to wellness through discovering the best natural solutions for your case and preferences. Talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Chaker L, Bianco AC, Jonklaas J, Peeters RP. Hypothyroidism. Lancet. 2017;390(10101):1550-1562. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(17)30703-1
- Wang F, Li C, Li S, Cui L, Zhao J, Liao L. Selenium and thyroid diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023;14:1133000. Published 2023 Mar 24. doi:10.3389/fendo.2023.1133000
- Singh M, Narayan J, Thakur R, Bhattacharya S, Sonkar SK, Ali W. Association of stress and primary hypothyroidism. J Family Med Prim Care. 2024;13(3):1073-1078. doi:10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_845_23
- Godos J, Giampieri F, Micek A, et al. Effect of Brazil Nuts on Selenium Status, Blood Lipids, and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022;11(2):403. Published 2022 Feb 16. doi:10.3390/antiox11020403
- Kaur J, Jialal I. Hashimoto Thyroiditis. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; February 9, 2025.
- Shahid MA, Ashraf MA, Sharma S. Physiology, Thyroid Hormone. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; June 5, 2023.
- Bowden SA, Goldis M. Congenital Hypothyroidism. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; June 5, 2023.
- Adhimoolam M, Arulmozhi R. Effect of antiepileptic drug therapy on thyroid hormones among adult epileptic patients: An analytical cross-sectional study. J Res Pharm Pract. 2016;5(3):171-174. doi:10.4103/2279-042X.185717
Probiotics are live microorganisms found in your gut and fermented treats, such as yogurts or kimchi, as well as supplements, that can deliver a wider array of benefits to your health when taken in adequate amounts. You may be thinking about the irony of ingesting bacteria to promote health when most bacteria you have been acquainted with are known to cause disease. However, it is important to know that not all bacteria are pathogenic. This means that good bacteria exist, and these wonderful microorganisms help strengthen your body’s natural abilities to protect itself.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are microorganisms, such as yeast or bacteria, that are harmless and able to survive in the body to help prevent and manage diseases caused by pathogenic foreign invaders and immune dysfunction. These microorganisms help nurture the growth of your body’s natural flora and inhibits the growth of bad microbes in the body, thereby promoting optimal balance within.1 Additionally, probiotics strengthen your body’s abilities to synthesize antimicrobial factors that prevent pathogens from binding to cells and causing disease!
Did you know?
Probiotics are actually found in many areas of the body! These essential microorganisms do not only inhabit your stomach and intestines.
Probiotics are actually found in many areas of the body! These essential microorganisms do not only inhabit your stomach and intestines.
|
|
|
|
Supporting Gut Health
The secret to optimal gut health is maintaining the innate balance of your gut’s natural microbiota. However, with antibiotic use and misuse, unhealthy lifestyle, and frequent bacterial infections, this balance may be difficult to maintain. Antibiotics, although helpful in fighting off infections caused by pathogenic bacteria, can be toxic to your gut’s natural microbiota. A very concerning phenomenon today is antibiotic resistance due to the improper use of these medications, making certain types of antibiotics useless for people with resistant strains. Similarly, unhealthy lifestyle choices can affect the stability of your gut’s microbiota. Eating foods rich in saturated and trans-fat can trigger inflammation that can disrupt the integrity of your intestinal lining.2
Dysbiosis happens when balance in your gut’s microbiota is disrupted, contributing to gastrointestinal conditions and immune dysfunction such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease.1 Probiotics fight off this imbalance by acting competitively – fighting for space and resources, preventing pathogenic microorganisms from proliferating and infiltrating the bloodstream and surrounding tissues.1 Interestingly, probiotics have been widely used to reestablish the body’s healthy amount of good microbiota, preventing further infections in people who recently used antibiotics.1
Dysbiosis happens when balance in your gut’s microbiota is disrupted, contributing to gastrointestinal conditions and immune dysfunction such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease.1 Probiotics fight off this imbalance by acting competitively – fighting for space and resources, preventing pathogenic microorganisms from proliferating and infiltrating the bloodstream and surrounding tissues.1 Interestingly, probiotics have been widely used to reestablish the body’s healthy amount of good microbiota, preventing further infections in people who recently used antibiotics.1
Strengthening Oral Health
Probiotics can help strengthen your oral health by preventing the development of dental carries (cavities) which can harbor microorganisms that cause decay and disease! Dental carries occur when the outer layer of your teeth has been decalcified because of too much acid produced by pathogenic bacteria that adheres to your dentin and enamel (a.k.a. the outer layers of your teeth). This can cause pain, discomfort, and even increases your risks of developing infections and complications when not adequately addressed. Probiotics can help prevent these risks from happening by attaching to the outer coatings of your teeth and fighting off the bacteria that cause dental carries!1 Additionally, probiotics can help nurture your gum health by fighting off pathogenic bacteria that trigger inflammation and strengthen your gum’s protective barrier.1
Nurturing Immunity
Your intestines are filled with lymphoid tissues, which are areas in the body where immune cells (white blood cells) that trigger and promote inflammation are found. To maintain immune balance, your immune cells and natural microbiota work together in a stable environment. Supplementing your diet with probiotics allows good bacteria to maintain this balance. Probiotics are effective in boosting your body’s protective abilities against infections and nurtures its innate potential to maintain balance within. Simply put, probiotics help stimulate the secretion of antibodies and anti-inflammatory mediators that help regulate your immune response.3
The Naturopathic Approach
The benefits of probiotics for your health cannot be understated. Its abundance in your body helps protect it from infections and unwanted inflammation that may cause more harm than good. Nurturing the number of these microorganisms through nutrition and supplementation is an effective and natural way to achieve and nurture optimal health. At Natural Path to Wellness, our team of naturopathic medicine advisors are committed to helping you discover the best natural and holistic strategies for your health needs and preferences.
To learn more about the benefits of probiotics for your health and wellness journey, talk to us today!
To learn more about the benefits of probiotics for your health and wellness journey, talk to us today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Bodke H, Jogdand S. Role of Probiotics in Human Health. Cureus. 2022;14(11):e31313. Published 2022 Nov 9. doi:10.7759/cureus.31313
- Martinez JE, Kahana DD, Ghuman S, et al. Unhealthy Lifestyle and Gut Dysbiosis: A Better Understanding of the Effects of Poor Diet and Nicotine on the Intestinal Microbiome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021;12:667066. Published 2021 Jun 8. doi:10.3389/fendo.2021.667066
- Mazziotta C, Tognon M, Martini F, Torreggiani E, Rotondo JC. Probiotics Mechanism of Action on Immune Cells and Beneficial Effects on Human Health. Cells. 2023;12(1):184. Published 2023 Jan 2. doi:10.3390/cells12010184
Your stomach is a vital organ that is very susceptible to inflammation from infection, injury, and irritation, especially since it receives food from the mouth (which may contain foreign pathogens) and breaks them down into particles for your intestines to absorb essential nutrients that your body needs to remain healthy. In people with peptic ulcer disease (PUD), the protective function of their stomach is impaired, leading to ulcerations that can severely affect quality of life and overall well-being.
Understanding Peptic Ulcer Disease
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) occurs due to an imbalance in the protective and damaging forces present in the gastrointestinal tract. Although the condition may occur in any part of the GI tract, it most commonly affects the last part of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine.4 Years ago, most people with PUD were infected with Helicobacter pylori. However, with improvements on sanitation and the growing use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and fever, the trends eventually shifted. Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria that thrives in the stomach of some people which can cause inflammation that can damage the stomach lining. The microorganism does this by decreasing the protective mucus that is present in the stomach, allowing gastric acid to destroy healthy cells. Currently, the rising rates of PUD have been associated with the use of NSAIDs, which can cause damage to the protective layer of your stomach. Ibuprofen or aspirin blocks COX-1, which is an enzyme that helps protect the stomach lining. Once blocked, the production of mucus in the stomach decreases and its protective properties diminish. Curious to learn more about the effects of NSAIDs to your stomach lining? We have the perfect blog post for you!
Signs and Symptoms
People with peptic ulcer disease experience episodes of burning or aching epigastric pain (pain located on the upper middle part of your abdomen). This gruesome pain typically happens 1-3 hours after eating and can be worse at night. The tricky part is that pain in PUD can be relieved by food or non-acidic drinks. Aside from abdominal pain, you may also experience bloating, nausea, and vomiting, all of which can affect your daily activities. In severe cases, PUDs can put you at risk of having GI bleeding, malnutrition, or cancer, since damage to your stomach lining can affect the integrity of blood vessels that supplies its cells the energy to function, impair the absorption of essential nutrients, and cause chronic irritation that can lead to the development of malignant cells. The good news is that peptic ulcers can actually spontaneously heal without having to go to treatment or therapy. However, the risks of developing additional ulcers should prompt you to take charge of your health and explore natural options that target and eradicate the cause of persistent erosions.
Allopathic Options
Conventional treatment strategies for peptic ulcer disease focus on eliminating H. pylori through antibiotics and reducing stomach acid through H-2 receptor antagonists, such as ranitidine, and proton pump inhibitors (PPI), such as omeprazole. Additional supplementation may be needed when using PPIs, since their prolonged use can lead to malnutrition and may increase your risks of getting bone fractures.4 Bismuth may also be taken in addition to antibiotics and PPIs when these two become ineffective in managing PUD. These medications can help treat the symptoms of peptic ulcer, but they do not treat the underlying cause or aid in nourishing the body.
Naturopathic Options
The naturopathic approach in managing peptic ulcer disease focuses on nurturing whole body health through lifestyle and food modifications, supplementation, herbal remedies, and stress reduction, which are all aimed at targeting the root cause of inflammation and breaking the cycle of ulceration. Simply put, naturopathic care aims to correct the cause of dysfunction, eliminate pathogens like H. pylori, healing the stomach and intestinal lining, and replace any lost nutrients. Additionally, people with long-term NSAID use are more likely to suffer from conditions that need immediate and frequent pain relief. Targeting the root cause of their health problem may ultimately prevent them from using NSAIDs in the first place!
|
|
|
|
Stress Reduction
Exposure to stressful events and environments can affect acid secretion in the stomach and cause unwanted irritation to the lining that eventually results in ulceration. Hence, your stress levels severely affect regulatory processes within the body! Identifying and reducing stressors with your naturopathic doctors not only help nurture balance within the body, but also challenges yourself to become more proactive and conscious in maintaining optimal health.
Botanical Medicine
- Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis). Marshmallow root contains healing properties that help coat the lining of your esophagus and stomach, thereby forming a barrier that protects your gastric wall from acid and damage.1
- Licorice (Radix glycyrrhizae). Licorice can be a safer and effective alternative to bismuth, which is the drug of choice that helps protect your stomach from destructive acid and pepsin secretions by acting as a barrier while enhancing mucus secretion at the same time.1 Licorice root can increase your blood pressure so, as always, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen.
- Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra). Aside from its wonders in healing sore throat, slippery elm helps nurture the protective barrier of the stomach by stimulating mucus production, thereby coating irritated or ulcered lining.2 This wonderful plant can also help improve your bowel habits and reduce problems with constipation.1
L-glutamine Supplementation
As the most abundant amino acid that helps maintain regulatory processes in the body, L-glutamine supports the optimal functioning of your gastrointestinal tract. Glutamine helps regulate the production of inflammatory markers and proliferation of white blood cells, thereby nurturing your defenses against infection and irritation.3 Supplementing your diet with L-glutamine also helps meet the metabolic demands of the body during metabolic stress, such as peptic ulcer disease.3
Nurturing Your Gastric Health
The role that your stomach plays is not only limited to breaking down food particles for absorption. It also helps secrete enzymes that help regulate the processes within your gastrointestinal tract. With food particles that may contain toxins and pathogens entering the stomach everyday, keeping your stomach strong and healthy is important to nurture innate protective factors that safeguard it from infections and ulcerations.
Do you want to learn how? Take the Natural Path to Wellness today!
Do you want to learn how? Take the Natural Path to Wellness today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Mohiuddin AK. Alternative Treatments for Minor GI Ailments [retracted in: Innov Pharm. 2020 Feb 25;11(1). doi: 10.24926/iip.v11i1.3940]. Innov Pharm. 2019;10(3):10.24926/iip.v10i3.1659. Published 2019 Jul 5. doi:10.24926/iip.v10i3.1659
- Slippery Elm. In: LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; January 5, 2024.
- Perna S, Alalwan TA, Alaali Z, et al. The Role of Glutamine in the Complex Interaction between Gut Microbiota and Health: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(20):5232. Published 2019 Oct 22. doi:10.3390/ijms20205232
- Malik TF, Gnanapandithan K, Singh K. Peptic Ulcer Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; June 5, 2023.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) can be seen growing almost everywhere, even considered a garden weed in some parts of the world. The beauty of dandelion, however, cannot compare to the wonders it can bring to your health! Dandelions are also used to spice up dishes and give flavor to drinks. Interestingly, dandelions belong to the “Taraxacum” family, which is derived from “taraxos” meaning disorder, and “akos” meaning remedy. Specifically, dandelions are rich in vitamins, calcium, iron, and potassium. Its leaves are also abundant in lutein and beta-carotene, which have antioxidant properties that protect body cells against damage. Dandelion roots, on the other hand, contain inulin, which is considered a prebiotic that supports the health of your intestinal microbiome and digestive tract! Here are 6 good reasons for you to start exploring the wonders of dandelions for your health.
1. It is good for the heart.
Dandelions are wonderful for your heart. Its leaves are rich in potassium which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce your risks of having complications from persistent hypertension.1 This wonder herb also has antioxidant properties from its abundant phenolic compounds, as well as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects due to the presence of coumarins. Specifically, the antioxidant effects of dandelions help fight off oxidative stress, which puts you at high risk of developing hypertension.2
2. It is a good diuretic to reduce swelling.
The leaves of the dandelion plant have been used for centuries as a diuretic, which helps your body get rid of excess water and salt by causing you to urinate more frequently. This powerful effect occurs from taraxasterol and taraxetrol, which are active compounds that help nurture the function of your kidneys and increase the production of urine.6 Dandelions in Italy are even called “piscialetto” meaning bedwetter.3 Unlike most conventional diuretics that cause the excretion of potassium along with excess fluids, dandelions can help replace and prevent potassium loss, thereby reducing swelling without putting your body at risk of non-potassium sparing diuretic effects (which can do more harm than good, especially to the heart).5
3. It protects your liver.
Aside from causing harmful effects to the heart, oxidative stress can also damage your liver. The antioxidant properties of dandelions prevent this from happening through preventing the build-up of free radicals and nurturing the abilities of your body to regenerate its own antioxidants.4 Interestingly, the antioxidant effects of dandelions depend on its dose, which means that higher concentration of the plant can cause better antioxidant effects since higher concentration of antioxidant ingredients are present.4
4. It boosts your immune system.
Dandelions help strengthen your immunity by increasing the production of enzymes that initiate and regulate the immune response.6 These include nitric oxide, which is responsible for widening blood vessels and allowing more blood to travel to sites that need protection and repair. Dandelions also work wonders in nurturing cytokine levels in the blood, which are important messengers that help control the regulatory mechanisms of your immune system.
5. It is a delicious source of prebiotics.
Dandelions are famous in the food industry, as they have been incorporated in many food and drinks. Its roots can actually be a substitute for your morning coffee or breakfast cereals!1 Dandelion leaves are often used as a salad ingredient, while delicious syrups are extracted from its flowers. Dandelions are also rich in inulin, which is a natural fiber that also acts as a prebiotic. This ingredient not only helps facilitate the flow of bulk through your gastrointestinal tract, but it also nurtures the healthy microbiota that keep your gut healthy.2 Additionally, dandelions are rich in essential vitamins, such as vitamins B, C, A, and E, as well as iron, potassium, and zinc.
|
Take note! Dandelion leaf is bitter, but it actually does wonders in stimulating salivation, digestive enzymes, and hydrochloric acid production. These all help nurture your gastrointestinal system’s abilities to absorb nutrients and regulate digestion! |
|
6. It helps you fight against metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that can increase your risk of developing heart disease and diabetes mellitus. The occurrence of metabolic abnormalities, such as high blood pressure, abnormally high levels of lipids in the body, and insulin resistance affect your body’s abilities to regulate processes within. To prevent such occurrences, modifications to lifestyle and dietary practices should be made. Dandelions help regulate your body’s ability to breakdown lipids and sugars, thereby protecting your liver, regulating blood sugar levels, and preventing the development of disorders associated with impaired fat and carbohydrate metabolism.2
Dandelion Root Capsules |
Dandelion
|
Dandelion
|
Safety and Considerations
Dandelion has been used through the years as a food ingredient and herbal remedy, hence its effects on your health have been proven with time and side effects associated with its use rarely happen. These may include diarrhea, skin irritations, or stomach upset. Dandelion products have also been approved by the FDA as a form of dietary supplement.2 However, dandelion may not be the right herb for you if you are allergic to the plant or if you were recently diagnosed with gastrointestinal problems or obstructions in your digestive system. It is best to talk to your primary care provider and naturopathic doctors to thoroughly evaluate your case and identify the right herbal remedies for your optimal health. Additionally, most herbs are contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, so it is best to consult with your doctors first before using these natural remedies to ensure your health is nurtured and your baby’s well-being is protected.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Olas B. New Perspectives on the Effect of Dandelion, Its Food Products and Other Preparations on the Cardiovascular System and Its Diseases. Nutrients. 2022;14(7):1350. Published 2022 Mar 24. doi:10.3390/nu14071350
- Kania-Dobrowolska M, Baraniak J. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale L.) as a Source of Biologically Active Compounds Supporting the Therapy of Co-Existing Diseases in Metabolic Syndrome. Foods. 2022;11(18):2858. Published 2022 Sep 15. doi:10.3390/foods11182858
- Di Napoli A, Zucchetti P. A comprehensive review of the benefits of taraxacum officinale on human health. Bulletin of the National Research Centre. 2021;45(1). doi:10.1186/s42269-021-00567-1
- Pfingstgraf IO, Taulescu M, Pop RM, et al. Protective Effects of Taraxacum officinale L. (Dandelion) Root Extract in Experimental Acute on Chronic Liver Failure. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(4):504. Published 2021 Mar 24. doi:10.3390/antiox10040504
- Clare BA, Conroy RS, Spelman K. The diuretic effect in human subjects of an extract of Taraxacum officinale folium over a single day. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(8):929-934. doi:10.1089/acm.2008.0152
- Taha MM, Abdelwahab SI. Unveiling a century of taraxacum officinale G.H. Weber ex wiggers research: A scientometric analysis and thematically-based Narrative Review. Bulletin of the National Research Centre. 2024;48(1). doi:10.1186/s42269-024-01194-2
Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune condition that affects any part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, from the mouth to the end part of the large intestine.1 It occurs from chronic, severe inflammation of the walls of the digestive system. Signs and symptoms of the disease, especially severe abdominal pain and diarrhea, have taken a toll on the lives of those affected, not only disrupting productivity, but also causing severe fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease results from immune-mediated inflammation that affects the entire thickness of your intestinal lining. It is considered a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with ulcerative colitis as its counterpart. The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. However, it may develop due to an impaired immune response against environmental and internal irritants. The condition can also develop due to genetic mutations that run across families. Normally, the lining of the small intestines is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the food you eat. However, lesions from Crohn’s disease dig into this entire section and are replaced with scar tissue, impairing its ability to absorb essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs to stay healthy.
Signs and Symptoms
People with Crohn’s disease typically experience recurrent abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, or vomiting for weeks to months, with periods of no symptoms in between.1 When not properly managed, these may lead to weight loss and even malnutrition, eventually resulting in severe complications. Since the condition is primarily driven by inflammation, people with Crohn’s disease may experience fever and weakness during the early stages of the disease.1 Once inflammation has successfully caused damage to the intestinal lining, diarrhea and abdominal pain occur. Since your intestine is responsible for absorbing nutrients such as iron and Vitamin B12, insufficient levels due to impaired absorption can lead to anemia and malnutrition.
Allopathic Options
The conventional management of Crohn’s disease depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s health risks. Generally, corticosteroids are given to manage flare-ups and promote remission.1 These medications are life-saving, due to their wonderful abilities to block inflammation. However, the use of corticosteroids alone should be monitored by your healthcare provider since these can cause more harm than good when not properly regulated, owing to their abilities to induce brittle bones (osteoporosis), bone death (osteonecrosis), thin the skin, suppress the immune system and its ability to fight infection, and problems in the adrenal glands. Immunomodulators are used for maintenance therapy, but not during active disease due to their slow effectiveness. Surgery may also be recommended to prevent and manage disease complications, such as bowel obstruction.1 Although necessary during emergencies, surgical removal of damaged tissues can worsen problems with absorption since it eliminates segments of the body responsible to assimilate nutrients from the food we eat. Additionally, surgical resection may cause dysbiosis, since it reduces the diversity of the gastrointestinal microbiota.3 Naturopathic medicine offers an alternative holistic approach that focuses on nurturing the body’s abilities to heal itself, preventing the need for surgery and its severe consequences.
|
|
|
|
The Naturopathic Approach
The goals of naturopathic care for Crohn’s disease focus on healing and nurturing the intestinal lining by targeting the root cause of inflammation. This is done through a combination of nutrition, herbal medication, and lifestyle practices that are all aimed at achieving remission and whole-body health.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Supporting the health of your intestine by eliminating grains that are sources of gluten in the diet can help break the vicious cycle of inflammation that triggers and exacerbates Crohn’s disease. Gluten has the ability to drive inflammation and loosen the tight junctions that protect your intestinal lining, eventually causing disease flare-ups. Eating food that is rich in omega-3 and polyphenols can help reduce inflammation.
Botanical Medicine
- Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum). This natural remedy supports the immune system and regulates metabolism. Its wonders in managing Crohn’s disease comes from its ability to suppress TNF-alpha, which is an inflammatory marker that rises in the condition.4
- Curcumin (Curcuma longa). This kitchen staple is made up of 70% curcuminoids, which are active ingredients that help block and reduce inflammation. Its wonders in Crohn’s disease comes from its ability to reduce oxidative stress in the intestine, regulate the body’s inflammatory process, and support healing of the intestinal lining.2
And many more!
Nurturing Your Gastrointestinal Health
Since your gastrointestinal tract is an important gateway to critical processes that keep your body healthy, nurturing its abilities to digest food, absorb nutrients, and protect your body from harm is your utmost responsibility. Although the exact cause of Crohn’s disease has not yet been fully discovered, you can prevent the disease from affecting your overall well-being by simply targeting the cycle of inflammation that triggers and exacerbates the problem. At Natural Path to Wellness, we are committed to helping you end this cycle. Talk to us to learn more!
Before using herbal medicine for your health problems, it is important to talk to your primary care providers and naturopathic doctors to make sure it is right for your case and preference. Additionally, most herbs are not allowed during pregnancy and lactation, so seeking professional help prior to using natural formulas helps to ensure that you and your baby are protected from unwanted side effects and potential harm.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Ranasinghe IR, Tian C, Hsu R. Crohn Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; February 24, 2024.
- Lin Y, Liu H, Bu L, Chen C, Ye X. Review of the Effects and Mechanism of Curcumin in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:908077. Published 2022 Jun 20. doi:10.3389/fphar.2022.908077
- Lewis JD, Daniel SG, Li H, et al. Surgery for crohn’s disease is associated with a dysbiotic microbiome and metabolome: Results from two prospective cohorts. Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2024;18(3):101357. doi:10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.05.005
- Liu C, Dunkin D, Lai J, et al. Anti-inflammatory Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Triterpenoid in Human Crohn's Disease Associated with Downregulation of NF-κB Signaling. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2015;21(8):1918-1925. doi:10.1097/MIB.0000000000000439
Addison’s disease is a rare autoimmune condition that may put your life at risk due to the lack of adrenocortical hormones, namely aldosterone, cortisol, and androgens from the destruction of both of your adrenal cortices. The importance of these hormones to your body’s optimal functioning cannot be understated, since these primarily drive the regulation and production of processes that make your organs do their jobs properly! The naturopathic approach for Addison’s disease targets the root causes of inflammation to achieve and maintain remission, thereby nurturing the balance of these hormones and regulating the processes that keep your body strong and healthy.
Understanding Addison’s Disease
Autoimmune adrenalitis, commonly known as Addison’s disease, occurs due to the presence of high levels of 21-hydroxylase antibodies, which attack and destroy the outer layer of your adrenal glands instead of protecting it from harm.1 Damage to the adrenal cortex can disrupt the synthesis and distribution of hormones, including androgens, cortisol, and aldosterone, which can disrupt your sex hormones and stress response. Approximately 50% of individuals diagnosed with Addison’s disease develop a different type of autoimmune condition when hormone levels are not normalized and balanced, significantly affecting quality of life and long-term well-being.
Signs and Symptoms
The course of Addison’s disease is unknown, and its symptoms may appear gradually and differently between individuals, causing a higher possibility of misdiagnosis or late recognition. One of the most dangerous situations attributable to this disease is the development of an adrenal crisis, which is an emergency situation that can cause irreparable damage to your organs if not promptly managed! Unfortunately, most people with Addison’s disease are only ever diagnosed after experiencing this medical emergency. When such occurs, you may have very low blood pressure, blood sugar, and sodium levels in the body, but very high potassium count! This is very alarming, and may cause confusion or loss of consciousness, rapid breathing and heart rate, excessive sweating, dehydration, and pain.
Allopathic Options
Since the disease condition primarily affects a special organ that produces three critical types of hormones, life-long hormone replacement is needed in people with Addison’s disease.1 Additionally, close and careful monitoring is needed to prevent fluctuations in hormone levels that can cause diabetes (high blood pressure) and osteoporosis (brittle bones).
Naturopathic Care for Addison’s Disease
The naturopathic approach for individuals with Addison’s disease focuses on reestablishing and maintaining balance of processes within the body by targeting the root cause of inflammation. This is achieved through a holistic approach that encompasses the right nutritive practices for your unique case, lifestyle changes to support your body’s natural recovery and avoid stress, supplementation with nutrients that can prevent and inhibit inflammation, and the best herbal remedies that are effective in helping your body regulate its hormone levels while exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects.
Intuitive Eating
Damage to your adrenal cortex is primarily driven by a chronic inflammatory process, causing the unending production of autoantibodies that attack your cells rather than protecting them. A simple yet effective way to help regulate this inflammatory response is by practicing responsible and intuitive eating practices, where you follow your body’s natural signals of when to eat and when to stop eating and at the same time take into consideration foods that actually help reduce and prevent inflammation. Talking to your naturopathic doctors will help you in incorporating the best nutritive practices for your unique case and preference.
Botanical Medicine
Herbs that help reduce inflammation and unwanted stress are often safe and effective remedies in managing Addison’s disease. These include:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera).
With wonderful ingredients that regulate the balance of your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, ashwagandha can help prevent the development of an overactive response against stressors, thereby avoiding unwanted inflammation. To learn more about the wonders of ashwagandha for stress relief, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera).
With wonderful ingredients that regulate the balance of your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, ashwagandha can help prevent the development of an overactive response against stressors, thereby avoiding unwanted inflammation. To learn more about the wonders of ashwagandha for stress relief, we have the perfect blog post for you!
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).
Rich in glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) which forms a shield that protects your red blood cells (RBCs) from destruction, preventing the uncontrolled development of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can cause toxic effects in the body.2 Interestingly, licorice root also help regulate cortisol levels by acting on 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes, increasing the availability of this hormone to different body tissues and processes.3
Rich in glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) which forms a shield that protects your red blood cells (RBCs) from destruction, preventing the uncontrolled development of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can cause toxic effects in the body.2 Interestingly, licorice root also help regulate cortisol levels by acting on 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes, increasing the availability of this hormone to different body tissues and processes.3
And many more!
It is important to remember that the use of herbs is not for everyone and should be explored with your naturopathic doctor to identify the best remedy for your health and preferences. Licorice root, for instance, can raise your blood pressure. Its intake should be supervised by your healthcare provider. Since risks on blood pressure control are associated with the use of licorice root, you may have to explore another herbal remedy for your health or take a deglycerrhated supplement rather than the whole herb, all of which should be guided by your naturopathic doctors. Additionally, most herbs should not be taken during pregnancy or lactation. Consulting with your healthcare provider and naturopathic doctor is crucial to evaluate the safety and risk profile of these natural concoctions.
Nurturing your Adrenal Health
Regaining and nurturing the health of your adrenal glands requires an approach that considers your whole well-being, rather than just depending on life-long medications to replenish hormone deficiency. As a wonderful reminder, your body is incredibly made with the ability to naturally heal itself. With the right support and holistic care, you can help nurture this gift and maintain the balance that controls and protects the body from harm outside and within. Take charge of your health today!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Munir S, Quintanilla Rodriguez BS, Waseem M. Addison Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; January 30, 2024.
- Sabbadin C, Bordin L, Donà G, Manso J, Avruscio G, Armanini D. Licorice: From Pseudohyperaldosteronism to Therapeutic Uses. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2019;10:484. Published 2019 Jul 18. doi:10.3389/fendo.2019.00484
- Methlie P, Husebye EE, Hustad S, Lien EA, Løvås K. Grapefruit juice and licorice increase cortisol availability in patients with Addison's disease. Eur J Endocrinol. 2011;165(5):761-769. doi:10.1530/EJE-11-0518
12/13/2024
Naturopathic Care for Grave’s Disease: Effective Natural Strategies for Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism
Read Now
Grave’s disease is an autoimmune condition that causes an overactive thyroid gland, eventually causing damage to your heart, eyes, liver, bone, skin, and skeletal muscles.1 Since it primarily affects the thyroid – a special organ responsible for your metabolism, growth, and development – promptly diagnosing and managing the condition are very important in regulating the processes that keep you alive and healthy, as well as preventing complications associated with high levels of thyroid hormones in the body.
Understanding Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism
Generally, the metabolic processes in your body are fueled by your thyroid hormones, as these primarily control how your cells convert nutrients into energy. Since minimal imbalances can greatly affect the regulatory processes that keep you alive and healthy, your mind and body work together to maintain healthy levels of your thyroid hormones! This collaboration is also known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis. Your hypothalamus first releases thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) which stimulates the cells in your anterior pituitary gland to release thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).2 This binds with receptors on your thyroid follicular cells, stimulating the production of thyroid hormones. Your thyroid hormones are then released into the blood to support every organ in the body.
Autoimmune hyperthyroidism, or Grave’s disease, occurs due to the presence of autoantibodies, specifically thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI), which are proteins produced by your immune system that attack your own healthy tissues instead of protecting it from harm. These activate your thyroid-stimulating hormones, thereby stimulating the production of your thyroid hormones and increasing the growth of your thyroid gland.1 High levels of thyroid hormones in the blood can disrupt your cell’s abilities to use and consume energy, causing an imbalance that affects any organ system in the body.
Autoimmune hyperthyroidism, or Grave’s disease, occurs due to the presence of autoantibodies, specifically thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI), which are proteins produced by your immune system that attack your own healthy tissues instead of protecting it from harm. These activate your thyroid-stimulating hormones, thereby stimulating the production of your thyroid hormones and increasing the growth of your thyroid gland.1 High levels of thyroid hormones in the blood can disrupt your cell’s abilities to use and consume energy, causing an imbalance that affects any organ system in the body.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism may vary depending on the age of the patient and severity of the disease upon diagnosis.1 However, patients with Grave’s disease commonly complain of:
- Intolerance to heat or warm environments
- Sweating
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue
- Tremors
- Palpitations (rapid or pronounced heartbeat)
- Increased frequency of bowel movements
- Palpable lump in the neck (goiter)
- Warm and moist skin
- Hair loss
- Neck fullness
- Bulging eyes (exophthalmos)
- Vision changes
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
Allopathic Options
Conventional treatment methods for autoimmune hyperthyroidism focus on minimizing the synthesis of your thyroid hormones either by lifetime antithyroid medications, treatment with radioactive iodine to permanently damage the thyroid gland and prevent its activity, or removal of the thyroid gland via surgery (thyroidectomy).1 Although beneficial, these medications may put you at risk of adverse effects, including allergic reactions and liver damage. Radioactive iodine, on the other hand, involves heavy exposures to radiation and should not be performed on pregnant women.1
The Naturopathic Approach
Managing Grave’s disease with naturopathic medicine focuses on decreasing the inflammation that triggered, and is contributing to the progression of, your autoimmunity. This involves fundamental changes to food, lifestyle, and stress management, including supplementing the levels of vitamins and minerals that support the regulatory processes in the body, as well as herbal remedies that target the root cause of your condition.
- Magnesium. Patients with autoimmune hyperthyroidism often have decreased levels of magnesium in the blood and supplementation may be needed to prevent nutritional deficiency which can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, palpitations, and insomnia.
- Potassium. Reduced levels of potassium can be present in patients with autoimmune hyperthyroidism. Since adequate levels of potassium in the blood are important to protect your heart from arrhythmias causing harm and damage, potassium supplementation may be required. However, since too much or too little potassium can cause a dangerous, or even fatal, arrhythmia, it is vital to speak to your healthcare providers before supplementing.
- L-Carnitine. L-Carnitine prevents entry of thyroid hormones into the nuclei of the cell, thereby opposing the effects of high thyroid hormone levels.
- Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is also beneficial in reducing the adverse effects of your antithyroid medications, such as growth depression.
|
|
|
|
Botanical Medicine
Herbal remedies are effective treatment options that help regulate your thyroid hormone levels, often with fewer and milder side effects than pharmaceutical medications. Additionally, the healing properties of herbal remedies are not limited to relieving a single symptom, as they help the body regain and nurture its natural balance. Herbal remedies for autoimmune hyperthyroidism may include:
- Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
- Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)
- Black Radish (Raphanus sativa var. niger)
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Improving Your Thyroid Health
The effects of autoimmune hyperthyroidism in the body can be prevented with prompt diagnosis and holistic strategies that help your body heal naturally and regulate its thyroid hormone levels. Since people with a family history of Grave’s disease may have higher chances of developing the condition, knowing your risk factors and genetic susceptibility are important in avoiding triggers and exacerbations. Interestingly, autoimmune hypothyroidism (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) and Grave’s disease may occur in the same person! People who are susceptible or have been diagnosed with either disease should be adequately tested and monitored. Your naturopathic doctors are committed to guiding you in exploring the best holistic options and helping you work together with your allopathic healthcare providers to achieve optimal health. Take the first step to wellness today!
Author
Kate Nemenzo's passion for holistic health has led her to become a registered nurse who promotes optimal care throughout her patient’s therapeutic journey. When not writing, she spends her time crocheting, watching Korean dramas, and playing the guitar!
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
REFERENCES:
- Pokhrel B, Bhusal K. Graves Disease. [Updated 2023 Jun 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448195/
- Shahid MA, Ashraf MA, Sharma S. Physiology, Thyroid Hormone. [Updated 2023 Jun 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500006/
- Gaby A. Nutritional Medicine. Fritz Perlberg Publishing; 2017.
9/26/2024
Honey for the Bones (and a tangential discussion of medical research into traditional remedies)
Read Now
When I think of the medicinal properties of honey, my first thoughts are of using it to reduce coughing and soothe sore throats. I think of medical-grade honey to help speed healing and prevent infections in wounds and burns. But, a while back I read this Bible verse and it made me wonder if honey was actually good for the bones.
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
- Proverbs 16:24
- Proverbs 16:24
In our current medical system, there is an attitude of dismissiveness to traditional medicines as a whole or to specific applications that have yet to be proven by current medical research. However, we have to remember that:
Why do researchers investigate traditional remedies? Because they work. If the evidence in support of traditional remedies was not so compelling, the research would not be undertaken. Even when we know that a treatment is effective, modern research helps us understand how it works, and that helps us know how else it can be used to our benefit.
It is easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking that we are at the pinnacle of human advancement and that our ancestors lacked knowledge or understanding. But we are only a point in the line of human advancement. Others will come after us and put rest to things we thought fact and prove things we theorized but were unable to prove.
After all, here we are nearly three millennia later conducting research that supports the wisdom espoused by the Israelites of 700 B.C.
A 2019 literature review (an evaluation of available research) described several potential benefits of honey for bone health:1
Humorously, the researchers referred to honey as a potential “novel dietary supplement to prevent osteoporosis.” Hmm…it is amusing to me how researchers have a tendency to lay claim to having discovered the medicines we have been using for thousands of years...
The long list of honey’s beneficial properties do not stop here. In fact, honey is a staple ingredient in many people’s skincare routines! Famous for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, honey is a wonderful ingredient to make sure your skin remains protected and nurtured.
- Research takes a great deal of time and money not typically dedicated to things that are not easily patented to ensure profitability.
- Sometimes our technology has not yet advanced to a point where certain studies can be performed or where their results can be accurately interpreted.
- There is an ongoing issue of a lack of communication between medical researchers and those who are educated and trained in the use of traditional medicines. This can lead to poor-quality research or the application of the wrong substance, dose, or form of the natural medicine being studied. In short, inaccurate results.
Why do researchers investigate traditional remedies? Because they work. If the evidence in support of traditional remedies was not so compelling, the research would not be undertaken. Even when we know that a treatment is effective, modern research helps us understand how it works, and that helps us know how else it can be used to our benefit.
It is easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking that we are at the pinnacle of human advancement and that our ancestors lacked knowledge or understanding. But we are only a point in the line of human advancement. Others will come after us and put rest to things we thought fact and prove things we theorized but were unable to prove.
After all, here we are nearly three millennia later conducting research that supports the wisdom espoused by the Israelites of 700 B.C.
A 2019 literature review (an evaluation of available research) described several potential benefits of honey for bone health:1
- “Honey can protect the bone via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties”
-
It contains polyphenols that help to stop the destruction of bone and its reabsorption into the bloodstream.
- Darker-colored honey tends to have more of the beneficial phenolic compounds.
- Several included animal studies showed more rapid fracture healing with the use of various types of honey.
- A combination of eating honey and performing jumping exercises (like rebounding!) improved bone density and diameter in animal studies.
- Likewise, honey plus aerobic dance helped improve muscle performance and reduce bone loss in women.
Humorously, the researchers referred to honey as a potential “novel dietary supplement to prevent osteoporosis.” Hmm…it is amusing to me how researchers have a tendency to lay claim to having discovered the medicines we have been using for thousands of years...
The long list of honey’s beneficial properties do not stop here. In fact, honey is a staple ingredient in many people’s skincare routines! Famous for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, honey is a wonderful ingredient to make sure your skin remains protected and nurtured.
HEALING HONEY
|
|
|
|
Quality, medical-grade manuka honey is something I recommend everyone keep in their herbal medicine cabinet. Manuka honey is made in New Zealand by bees that feed off of — and collect medical benefits from – the Leptospermum scoparium flowers. It can be taken for digestion or used topically for burn- and wound-healing. MGO numbers indicate the amount of methylglyoxal (the compound responsible for manuka’s amazing healing properties) with higher numbers indicating more medical benefits. In addition to manuka honey, I recommend keeping raw, local honey as a pantry staple.
How to find healing honey:
Warning: remember, you should never feed honey to a child under the age of one (1) year. Honey can contain botulism toxin at doses small enough not to harm healthy adults and children, but babies under 1 can not fight off this toxin and can die from consuming honey.
How to find healing honey:
-
Buy local, raw, unfiltered honey when possible.
- Local & unfiltered because it will contain small particles of pollen local to your area which may help reduce your environmental allergy symptoms. Most beekeepers will strain the honey (a.k.a. microfiltration) to remove large particles, but we want to avoid ultra-filtered honey which removes the pollen. Plus, buying local reduces the carbon footprint.
- Raw because honey contains enzymes, vitamins & minerals, proteins & amino acids, and beneficial bacteria that are good for your health but are damaged or destroyed when heated. Buy from someone who doesn’t heat their honey at all or past about 95F, the typical temperature inside a beehive.
- Find a reputable beekeeper. Store-bought honey (in addition to usually being heat processed, ultra-filtered, and not local) is often adulterated with corn syrup or sugar syrup. Local farmer’s markets can be a great place to find quality honey. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort to find someone selling 100% pure honey, your tastebuds (and your bones!) will thank you.
Warning: remember, you should never feed honey to a child under the age of one (1) year. Honey can contain botulism toxin at doses small enough not to harm healthy adults and children, but babies under 1 can not fight off this toxin and can die from consuming honey.
Author
Marney Johnson, ND, MSCI-TS, (she/her) received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and Certificate of Natural Childbirth from National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM). Following graduation, she completed a CNME-approved Residency in Naturopathic Medicine with NUNM Health Center, a primary care clinic in Portland, Oregon. There she was trained and practiced in a variety of naturopathic and primary care. She is passionate about supporting the body's ability to heal itself with the support of naturopathic modalities and believes that everyone deserves outstanding care and should feel both safe and heard by those entrusted with their health and wellness.
REFERENCE:
1. Kamaruzzaman MA, Chin KY, Mohd Ramli ES. A Review of Potential Beneficial Effects of Honey on Bone Health. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2019;2019:8543618. Published 2019 Sep 19. PMID: 31641368
1. Kamaruzzaman MA, Chin KY, Mohd Ramli ES. A Review of Potential Beneficial Effects of Honey on Bone Health. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2019;2019:8543618. Published 2019 Sep 19. PMID: 31641368
THE BLOG AT NATURAL PATH TO WELLNESS
AuthorS
Natural Path to Wellness values community education and welcomes contributions from writers with a background in Naturopathic Medicine, natural health and wellness, herbalism, homeopathy, Nature Cure, and more.
Medical Reviewer:
Marney Johnson, ND, MSCI-TS is a Naturopathic Doctor and Naturopathic Medicine Advisor with a background in allopathic (standard American medicine) medical research, Dr. Johnson, is uniquely qualified to evaluate current scientific research and offer insight to help you make sense of how you can integrate natural medicine into your health plan. She is passionate about the roles of Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Nature in health and constantly seeks new ways to make these accessible through food as medicine, encouraging new, healthy habits, and promoting interaction with Nature in its many forms.
Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
Archives
March 2025
February 2025
January 2025
December 2024
November 2024
October 2024
September 2024
August 2024
July 2024
December 2023
October 2023
September 2023
Categories
All
Autoimmunity
Brain Health
Disordered Eating
Food As Medicine
Gastrointestinal Health
Herbal Medicine
Maternal Health
Men's Health
Menstrual Health
Mental Health
Movement
Nature Cure
Period Health
Pregnancy
Sleep
Stress
Women's Health
RSS Feed