Treat Your Thyroid-Related Problems with Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many beneficial properties upon our body. Recent studies have shown that it can also fix thyroid problems. This oil is effective in treating an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, but it’s not that good for other thyroid problems.

The thyroid gland, one of the largest endocrine glands in the body, produces the triiodothyronine (T3) and the thyroxine (T4) hormones. They work together to regulate metabolism, mood, body temperature, energy levels, blood pressure and heart rate. Therefore, the proper functioning of the thyroid gland is very important for your overall health.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid means that the thyroid gland is not able to produce enough hormones. Because of a decreased level of thyroid hormones, the body cannot perform normal metabolic functions, such as regulating the chemical reactions in the body, properly using the energy from food and maintaining healthy muscles and bones.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

During the initial stage, hypothyroidism does not have any symptoms. If left untreated, the condition can lead to joint pain, weight gain, constipation, increased sensitivity to cold, general weakness, fatigue, infertility, heart disease, dry skin, weak nails, brittle hair and heavier menstrual flow.

The medical condition can be diagnosed by testing the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. Unfortunately, the disease cannot be cured, it can be only kept under control. Coconut oil can relieve and even eliminate some of the symptoms of Hypothyroidism.

Coconut Oil and Hypothyroidism

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids which are similar to those found in the human mother’s milk. They have excellent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The lauric acid, capric acid, and the caprylic acid have health-promoting and antiviral properties.

Here is how coconut oil can help people suffering from hypothyroidism:

• Boosts Metabolism

The fatty acids in coconut oil can enter the cells’ energy-burning powerhouses, where they are transformed into energy. This will boost the metabolism and the immune system and increase the basal body temperature.

• Fights Inflammation

Coconut oil can repair tissues and suppress inflammation, therefore reducing the joint and muscle pain. Simply massage the inflamed areas with warm coconut oil several times each day.

• Aids Weight Loss

Unexplained and uncontrollable weight gain is among the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. Coconut oil can help with weight loss thanks to its medium-chain fatty acids.

• Relieves Constipation

The decreased levels of thyroid hormones also slow down the functions of the digestive tract, leading to constipation. The fatty acids in coconut oil stimulate bowel movements, working as a natural laxative. Add a teaspoon of coconut oil into a cup of warm milk and drink it each day before going to sleep.

• Treats Dry and Flaky Skin

A slow metabolism also implies reduced sweating, which leads to the itchy, flaky and dry skin. Just apply warm coconut oil to your skin and massage for 10 minutes. Leave it on your skin for half an hour, then take a bath.

How Much Coconut Oil Should I Consume?

First of all, you must only use extra-virgin coconut oil. You can consume two to four tablespoons daily by adding it to your coffee, tea, milk or smoothies, by using it in your daily cooking or drizzling over your soup or salad.

You can even try oil pulling by swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15 – 20 minutes every morning on an empty stomach.