The Cortisol-Thyroid Connection – Why Stress Can Cause Hypothyroidism

 

Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

The Cortisol-Thyroid Connection – Why You Feel Anxious and Sick – And How to Get Your Health Back

Too much cortisol, your primary stress hormone, can wreak havoc on a sensitive thyroid. Here are five proven ways to protect your thyroid and get your health back on track.

We are all very familiar with stress, but what we often don’t know is that cortisol – a hormone in the body – drives this stress response. Cortisol is vital for a healthy immune system, blood pressure regulation, and crisis response.

Problems arise, however, when our cortisol levels remain high for too long. Excess cortisol can cause thyroid chaos, so balancing your cortisol levels are key to improving your health.

Why Your Thyroid Problems Aren’t Getting Better?

If you discover that you have low thyroid function – either as hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – it’s assumed that you need to increase your thyroid function with medication.

This is partially true for many people, though simply throwing medication at the problem won’t help you understand how the issue started in the first place. While there are many underlying triggers of low thyroid, there is one common factor: stress, or high cortisol.

Stress is a huge problem for those with thyroid issues in particular, because cortisol actively suppresses thyroid hormone output. In essence, stress decreases thyroid activity in an effort to conserve energy for the “fight or flight” task at hand.

High levels of cortisol can also lead to blood pressure changes, weight gain, poor digestion, blood sugar instability, and even anxiety and depression. These issues can all contribute to exacerbated thyroid symptoms.

The good news is that there are things you can do to decrease cortisol levels. If you’ve been feeling the pressure from work, personal life, parenting, health, or other challenges, odds are your cortisol levels are out of whack.

5 Herbs and Supplements to Decrease Cortisol

Cortisol is a natural response in the body when stressful situations arise. However, when your body is always on the alert, cortisol gets out of control.

The following five tips can help restore your natural hormone balance. Just remember to always check with your doctor before taking new herbs or supplements.

Fish Oil

Fish oil is one of those supplements that are popular for improving heart health and fighting inflammation. The good news is that it’s also helpful in reducing cortisol levels.

When choosing a fish oil supplement, make sure it is sourced from wild-caught fish and contains no fillers, like this one. Follow the recommended dosage.

L-theanine

L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea and matcha, is helpful for dealing with anxiety because it helps to reduce cortisol levels during and after stress.

Keep in mind that l-theanine can make you feel very relaxed, so it’s best taken right before bed. For optimal results, take it regularly to reap the benefits of lowered cortisol levels the next day. Try a product like this and follow the recommended dosage from your practitioner.

Valerian Root

Valerian root is an herbal sleep aid that works by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain, reducing stress-related issues like anxiety and insomnia. Valerian is not habit-forming and can help address many types of sleep issues, like poor sleep quality. Try a product like this.

Tip: Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as sleep aids have a higher chance of interacting with them.

Multivitamin

Do you take a daily multivitamin? Not everyone does, but if you’re dealing with chronic stress and cortisol problems, it might be a good idea.

Be sure to choose a multivitamin that has higher amounts of B vitamins, like this one.

More B vitamins help to reduce stress levels, even for people with certain genetic mutations (like MTHFR) that make it hard to convert and activate B vitamins.

Lavender Aromatherapy

Do you find the smell of lavender calming? Research shows that the scent of lavender can lower cortisol levels in new mothers who are sleep deprived, as well as stress in infants. The best part about lavender aromatherapy is that it’s safe and easy, with no medication or other supplemental interactions.

Diffuse lavender in your room while you sleep, at your desk while you work, in your bath or shower, or mix it with a carrier oil, like jojoba, for a stress-busting facial oil.

Watch this video – How Stress Causes Hypothyroidism | Thyroid & Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome | Samyuktha Diaries

The Bottom Line

Cortisol can be a good thing when it’s in balance. A certain level of stress helps our bodies get things done, like boost adrenaline to get through a marathon or a big work presentation.

But when stress levels become chronic, the negative effects outweigh the good. Lowering cortisol back into balance is vital for overall health as well as a balanced thyroid.

These five supplemental options help to calm elevated cortisol levels. Still, don’t underestimate the value of gentle exercise, deep breathing, and any other activities that you find stress-relieving.

Written by Aimee McNew

Author Bio:

Aimee McNew is a Certified Nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, thyroid problems, infertility, and digestive wellness. She ate her way back to health using a Paleo diet, lost 80 pounds, and had a healthy baby after numerous miscarriages. She focuses on simple nutrition practices that promote long-lasting results.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

Here’s 5 Natural Remedies to Stop Your Eye Twitching

 

Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

Here’s Why Your Eye Keeps Twitching & 5 Natural Remedies to Stop It

Eye twitches can be distracting and annoying, lasting a few seconds or minutes at a time. While these involuntary spasms aren’t typically noticeable to others, they can interfere with your daily routine and ability to concentrate.

The good news is that eye twitches usually aren’t a sign of anything serious. Since these spasms tend to happen randomly and inconsistently, the exact cause of eye twitching (also known as blepharospasm) can be hard to determine.

However, there may be certain triggers in your diet and lifestyle that are causing your eyelids to flutter. Emotions can even play a role, with some people only experiencing eye twitches when they feel sad or anxious.

Here are the most common underlying causes of eye twitching, and natural remedies to help resolve these spasms naturally.

Common Causes of Eye Twitching

• Eye strain from staring at computer screens
• Caffeine
• Chronic stress
• Nervous system disorders, such as anxiety
• Lack of sleep
• Allergies
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Excess alcohol consumption
• Light sensitivity
• Air pollution
• Side effects of OTC medications
• Eyelid inflammation (can be caused by chemicals in cosmetics, body care products or other irritants)

When is Eye Twitching Serious?

In serious cases, eye twitching can be an early sign of an underlying neurological disorder, or neuromuscular disorder such as Tourette’s syndrome. H—however, these conditions are typically accompanied by other symptoms such as facial spasms, shaking and tremors. Eye twitching can be an early sign of an underlying neurological disorder.

Although it’s not common, frequent eye twitching (lasting months at a time) can result in a condition called benign essential blepharospasm. Benign essential blepharospasm usually affects both eyes, and may also be seen with other involuntary muscular disorders, such as uncontrolled blinking and spasms in other areas of the body.

5 Natural Remedies for Eye Twitching

So, where do you begin with getting rid of the pesky twitching?

Start with reducing eye strain (for example, taking mandatory short breaks if you spend several hours on the computer each day), and improving your sleep quality—perhaps build a DIY sleep sanctuary?

In addition, there are several other natural remedies you can try to resolve eye twitching naturally.

1. Increase the Electrolytes in Your Diet

Nutrient deficiencies could be contributing to eye twitches, especially electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. These nutrients regulate proper muscle function and may help reduce spasms, as eye twitching happens in the small nerves and muscles around your eyes.

You can increase the electrolytes in your diet by drinking coconut water and adding spinach, avocado, banana, nuts, seeds and a wide variety of other fresh fruit and vegetables to your diet.

If you avoid sodium in your diet and experience eye twitches, you may want to begin adding small amounts of pure sea salt to your meals and eating foods that naturally contain sodium, such as tomatoes, salted nuts and seaweed, such as kombu and nori.

A routine blood test can also rule out nutrient deficiencies as a cause of eye twitches.

2. Yoga and Meditation

It’s not uncommon to experience eye twitches (or other seemingly random, involuntary muscle twitches) when you’re nervous or stressed.

In fact, stress is one of the most common triggers for eye twitching, as spasms are linked to nerves at the base of the brain within the nervous system. It’s not uncommon to experience eye twitches when you’re nervous.

Prioritizing stress management with techniques such as yoga and meditation (and even going for a deep tissue massage) will help calm your nerves, which may reduce the frequency and severity of eye twitching.

Studies have shown practicing yoga to be effective for reducing the symptoms of stress-related disorders (such as anxiety, depression and even epilepsy), which suggests it may also be effective for regulating nerve impulses related to muscle spasms.

3. Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids

Another important nutrient for eye health are omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are healthy fats found in wild fish, nuts, seeds, algae and grass-fed meats. Our brain and eye tissues are comprised of omega-3’s, and studies show these healthy fats are necessary for healthy vision.

While there’s little research to show the link between omega-3’s and eye twitching, these essential fats are required for general optimal eye function, which may help reduce involuntary spasms.

Unfortunately, in today’s Western diet, it’s common to consume fewer omega-3’s. Instead, we overconsume omega-6 essential fatty acids from vegetable oils in deep fried foods, fast foods and processed foods, which contribute to systemic inflammation when consumed in excess.

On the other hand, omega-3 essential fatty acids are natural anti-inflammatories, and reduce systemic inflammation.Omega-3 essential fatty acids are natural anti-inflammatories.

In fact, studies show our ratio of omega-6’s to 3’s today is approximately 25:1—which indicates an alarmingly high ratio of pro-inflammatory foods (in comparison, that ratio should be closer to 2:1).

Since omega-3 essential fatty acids are natural anti-inflammatories, we could all do with increasing the amount of omega-3’s in our diets not only for eye health, but for optimal health.

The best food sources of omega-3’s are wild salmon, sardines, mackerel, chia seeds, hemp hearts, flaxseed, walnuts and algae, such as chlorella or spirulina. You can also take fish oil to easily boost the omega-3’s in your diet.

4. Acupuncture

Acupuncture, practiced widely in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves pricking the skin at strategic points and meridians to help rebalance the flow of energy throughout your body, which can help improve certain ailments and disorders (from skin conditions to infertility). Acupuncture is also said to be effective for muscle pain and spasms, including eye twitches.

Acupuncture is practiced by alternative healthcare practitioners, such as Naturopathic doctors and Doctors of Chinese Medicine, and offered at most integrative health centers across North America.

5. Keep a Symptom Journal

Although it may seem confusing at first, it’s not impossible to pinpoint your personal triggers for eye twitching. You can start connecting the dots by keeping a symptom journal. In your symptom journal, it’s helpful to track when eye twitching occurs, along with:

– Hours of sleep
– Hours worked
– Hours spent in front of a computer
– Rate stress levels on a scale of 1-5 (make note of stressful events)
– Track food, caffeine and alcohol consumption

While it may seem efficient enough to take mental notes in your head, seeing your daily routine on paper can paint a clearer picture of the amount of nutrients, sleep and stress relief present in your lifestyle, all of which may be contributing to your symptoms.

A symptom diary may also help you identify whether caffeine, stress or eye strain is the culprit in eye twitching, which may be when you decide to introduce yoga or meditation into your lifestyle or reduce your caffeine consumption.

Watch this video – 7 Easy Natural Remedies to Stop Your Eye Twitching

The Bottom Line

As you can see, with a combination of the right nutrients, stress support and complementary therapies such as acupuncture and massage, it’s possible to get rid of eye twitching naturally.

If symptoms persist longer than a few weeks, it’s always a good idea to speak with a licensed healthcare practitioner for individualized recommendations, as the causes (and solutions) for eye twitching will be different for each person.

Written by Brandi Black

Author Bio:

Brandi Black is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and the creator of Feel Best Naked, a health blog for women who want to clear up their skin, lose the muffin top and make the bloat disappear. After years of experiencing (and then healing) her own unbalanced hormones, she’s now obsessed with helping other women feel spectacular in their own skin with natural remedies for hormone balance.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook

14 Proven Supplements to Control Your Blood Sugar Level

 

Click HERE to Discover these 80 Keto-Friendly and Healthy Slow Cooker Recipes

Help keep diabetes in check with these 14 supplements that have been proven to help control blood sugar levels.

Managing blood sugar through diet alone can be highly effective, but some people need a little extra support. Thankfully, supplements to control blood sugar have been researched extensively, and several have passed the test.

Here are the top 14 supplements that have been proven to help keep glucose and insulin levels in check.

1. Berberine

Berberine is a bitter medicinal alkaloid found in the roots and stems of goldenseal, Oregon grape, barberry, and tree turmeric.  It has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda and can be used as a dye because of its deep, yellow-golden color.

Berberine can be effective at lowering blood glucose levels for those with type 2 diabetes or excessive glucose levels. Taken in capsule form twice daily at 500 milligrams for at least three months, it can reduce fasting glucose and postprandial glucose.

Some research has even shown berberine to be as effective as Metformin, a medication commonly prescribed to control glucose levels in diabetic patients, when taken two or three times daily.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of a tree common to southeastern Asia. There are two common forms of cinnamon: cassia and Ceylon. Ceylon cinnamon is the superior form though buyers should be aware that spices purchased in stores are most often the cassia variety.

Significant research has been done evaluating the health benefits of cinnamon for diabetes and blood sugar control. While not all studies agree on the specific degree of benefits, most agree that a daily intake of cinnamon can reduce fasting blood glucose by an average of 24 mg/dL, as well as reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.

The average dose of cinnamon used for blood glucose benefits is between 120 mg and 6 grams daily, for up to four months.

3. Curcumin

Turmeric, whose active ingredient is curcumin, is a warm spice known for its deep yellow-orange color and distinct earthy flavor.

Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory benefits and can be used to naturally address depression, arthritis, and other chronic conditions. When taken once or twice daily in 750 mg capsules, curcumin can actually reduce glucose levels and can prevent diabetes from developing in those who are pre-diabetic.

Turmeric can also be consumed as a tea or other drinks, such as this turmeric-mango tonic.

4. ALA

ALA, or alpha-lipoic acid, is an antioxidant found in sources like broccoli, spinach, and brewer’s yeast.

When used in concentrated supplement form, ALA can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose levels.  Dosing can range anywhere from 300 mg to 1800 mg daily and can show effective benefits in as little as four weeks.

ALA can also naturally help to prevent the onset of diabetes in those who have prediabetes or insulin sensitivity, especially when taken daily for at least two weeks.

5. Chromium Picolinate

Chromium picolinate is a trace mineral that can be used to gain glucose control in those with all forms of diabetes, people with metabolic syndrome, and women with PCOS-related glucose and insulin issues.

While lower doses can be effective, higher doses will have more definitive results. Research shows that 1,000 micrograms per day in divided doses may be optimal for controlling glucose quickly.

6. Vitamin D3

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that the body can synthesize from cholesterol after direct sunlight exposure.

Research shows that people with lower vitamin D levels have an increased risk of developing glucose problems and type 2 diabetes.

Since dietary sources of vitamin D are limited, and sunshine exposure isn’t available year-round for most people, supplementing with a high-quality vitamin D3 capsule can provide the best health benefits. Take vitamin D after a meal with some fat, or at the same time as fish oil, for best absorption.

7. Ginseng

There are three distinct varieties of this adaptogenic herb – American ginseng, Panax ginseng, and Siberian ginseng. While they have similar properties, some are more effective than others, depending on the condition being treated.

For blood sugar control and diabetes, American ginseng seems to be most effective at reducing postprandial glucose levels when taken up to two hours before a meal in a dose of 3 grams. American ginseng can also reduce fasting blood glucose when taken daily for eight weeks, between 100 and 200 mg per day.

Siberian ginseng can also help to reduce fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels when taken daily for three months in a dose of 480 mg.

While Panax ginseng has health benefits of its own, there is no solid research backing its ability to control diabetes.

8. Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a flowering plant known for its natural detox support. Research shows that milk thistle can be beneficial for lowering fasting blood sugar levels, along with hemoglobin A1C, cholesterol, and triglycerides.

When taken as 200 mg three times daily, milk thistle can also help to improve insulin resistance in pre-diabetics and those with active diabetes.

While milk thistle is most effective when taken in capsule form, it can also be brewed as an herbal tea.

9. Inulin

Inulin is a starchy fiber found in fruits, vegetables, and herbs like onions, bananas, leeks, artichokes, and asparagus. When in supplement form, inulin is usually derived from chicory root.

Inulin is a prebiotic that can help to slow the breakdown of sugars and can help to stabilize glucose and insulin levels.

You should ease into inulin supplementation slowly. Start with 1-2 grams once a day for 2-3 weeks. After that, increase your dosage by 1-2 grams, waiting another 2-3 weeks to adjust. The max inulin dose for anyone should be 5-7 grams daily or as recommended by a doctor.

10. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an aromatic herb that produces powerful medicinal seeds. Most notably, fenugreek is used to boost immunity. It has a slightly sweet flavor, similar to maple syrup.

Fenugreek has been a long-time natural remedy for diabetes in Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe.

Research indicates that fenugreek can be helpful in improving blood glucose levels, including postprandial and fasting, when taken between five and 50 grams for a minimum of four days and up to 24 weeks.

Fenugreek also can be ground into a flour and added to foods for an equally effective way to supplement.

11. White Mulberry

White mulberry is a small shrub with small, pinkish white berries that have a bitter taste.

When used as a supplement with one gram three times daily, white mulberry has been shown to help reduce fasting glucose levels by as much as 27 percent when used consistently for at least four weeks. The same effects don’t appear to happen if the berries are eaten directly.

12. Psyllium

Psyllium is a popular supplemental fiber, often used to relieve constipation. It comes from an herb that primarily grows in India, and can be purchased as husks, capsules, powder, or granules.

It is sometimes added to baked goods to increase fiber content.

Because psyllium doesn’t fully digest, it can help to decrease glucose levels and provide balanced digestive function.

Because it is a gentle food source, psyllium causes little side effects and is well tolerated by most individuals, especially when it is gradually eased into the diet.

Psyllium can help to reduce postprandial glucose levels by as much as 20 percent, in patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Psyllium can be taken in capsule or powder form. Because dosages can differ dramatically, it’s important to follow the product recommendations but to ease into the full amount by starting with a quarter dose, and then increasing over a week or two. Psyllium, regardless of the form, always needs taken with a full 8-12 ounces glass of water.

13. Glucomannan

Glucomannan is a dietary fiber derived from the konjac plant. When taken orally, it can help to reduce both cholesterol and glucose levels, especially in people with type 2 diabetes.

Beyond glucose control alone, glucomannan can help to improve sensitivity in pre-diabetic individuals as well as those with type 2 diabetes.

Glucomannan can also be found in foods, most notably in shirataki noodles, which are low-carb and Paleo-friendly.

14. Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that has an impact on more than 300 cellular reactions within the body. It has gained exposure in recent years for the positive effects it can have on sleep, stress, muscle cramps and pains, and constipation.

Magnesium can be found in many food sources, including broccoli, leafy greens, almonds, dark chocolate, and other seeds and nuts. Still, some people get far too little magnesium and are operating under a consistently low level, which can increase the risk of developing diabetes.

Improving magnesium intake can help to lower fasting insulin and can also reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Taking 100 mg daily can be beneficial, although as much as 300 mg is considered safe and effective.

Watch this video – How to Bring BLOOD SUGAR DOWN quickly. Lower blood sugar fast! Dr. Ergin gives tips! SUGARMD

Bottom Line

While these supplements can help balance glucose and insulin levels, they are often only effective when dietary and lifestyle factors, like exercise, are already in play.

It’s important to note that supplements can’t fix a bad diet, but can only add to what is already in place with a health-supportive lifestyle.

Written by Aimee McNew

Author Bio:

Aimee McNew is a Certified Nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, thyroid problems, infertility, and digestive wellness. She ate her way back to health using a Paleo diet, lost 80 pounds, and had a healthy baby after numerous miscarriages. She focuses on simple nutrition practices that promote long-lasting results.

A lot of people have gotten results from the Keto diet, and enjoyed the foods that it has to offer. However, many of the people who are following this diet have a hard time finding the recipes that they need, especially ones that are quick and easy to complete.

Fortunately, Kelsey Ale, noticed this problem, and decided to do something about it. She’s found that making recipes in a slow cooker gives you meals which are not only delicious, but also take very little time to make. Mostly you just put a few simple ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it do the rest.

To find out more, click on – Keto Slow Cooker Cookbook