April 2023

Health issues can affect children too, and while medication may be necessary, natural remedies for thyroid can complement treatment and support overall well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore natural remedies for thyroid health in kids, including healthy eating, exercise, and stress management.

Thyroid Functioning in Kids

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces hormones essential for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. In kids, thyroid issues can affect growth, development, and cognitive function. There are two primary types of thyroid issues in kids: hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Symptoms of hypothyroidism in kids may include fatigue, weight gain, sluggishness, poor concentration, dry skin, and constipation. On the other hand, symptoms of hyperthyroidism in kids may include hyperactivity, weight loss, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and frequent bowel movements.

While medication is often necessary, natural remedies can complement medical treatment and support overall well-being. Here are some natural remedies for thyroid health in kids:

Healthy Eating

Nutrition is essential for supporting thyroid health in kids. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods into their diets can help support optimal thyroid function. Foods that are rich in iodine, selenium, zinc, and vitamins A, D, and E are especially beneficial for thyroid health. Some kid-friendly foods that are rich in these nutrients include:

• Iodine: iodized salt, seaweed, shrimp, tuna, eggs, and milk
• Selenium: Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, fish, turkey, and eggs
• Zinc: beans, nuts, and seeds
• Vitamins A, D, and E: milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, salmon, and fortified cereals

It’s essential to ensure that kids are getting adequate nutrition from a balanced diet. Some kids may benefit from working with a pediatric nutritionist or dietitian to ensure that they’re getting the nutrients they need to support thyroid health.

Exercise

Exercise is beneficial for thyroid health in kids, as it can help improve energy levels, support a healthy metabolism, and reduce stress. Some fun exercise ideas for kids include:

• Running, walking, or biking
• Dancing, Zumba
• Playing sports like soccer, basketball, or swimming

It’s essential to encourage kids to be physically active and incorporate regular exercise into their routines. However, it’s also crucial to ensure that kids are engaging in safe and age-appropriate activities.

Stress Management

Stress can have a significant impact on thyroid function, so it’s essential to help kids manage stress effectively. Some stress management techniques that can benefit kids with thyroid issues include:

• Meditation or mindfulness exercises
• Deep breathing or relaxation techniques
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Expressive art activities like drawing, painting, or journaling
• Regular communication with friends and family to reduce feelings of isolation

It’s important to help kids understand the importance of stress management and provide them with tools and resources to manage stress effectively.

Acupressure

Acupressure is a non-invasive and natural way to support thyroid health in kids. Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Some acupressure points that can benefit thyroid health in kids include:

• CV22: located at the base of the throat, this point can help balance the thyroid gland and support healthy hormone production.
• BL13: located on the upper back between the shoulder blades, this point can help improve respiratory function and support thyroid health.
• K27: located just below the collarbone, this point can help regulate thyroid function and support healthy metabolism.

Acupressure can be done by a trained practitioner or at home with the guidance of a professional.

Supplements

Supplements can help support thyroid health in kids. Some supplements that may be beneficial include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: these essential fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support healthy thyroid function.
• Vitamin D: low levels of vitamin D have been linked to thyroid disorders, so ensuring adequate vitamin D levels can support thyroid health.
• Probiotics: a healthy gut microbiome can help support overall health, including thyroid function.

It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before giving children any supplements to ensure safe and appropriate dosing.

Conclusion

There are many natural remedies that can help support thyroid health in kids. From healthy eating and exercise to stress management, acupressure, and supplements, there are many ways to support the thyroid gland and promote healthy hormone production.

If you suspect that your child may have a thyroid disorder, it’s essential to talk to a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. However, incorporating these natural remedies can help support overall thyroid health and may provide additional benefits for your child’s overall wellbeing.

Now, we would like to hear from you. Have you tried any natural remedies to support your child’s thyroid health? What has worked for your family? Let us know in the comments below.