There has been a lot of talk about how coconut oil can help remedy the symptoms of hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism is very common and can occur at any age, but that chance increases as you get older. This thyroid disorder is more common than hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) and is three times more common in women than in men. Read on to know more about coconut oil health benefits, especially for those with hypothyroidism!
Coconut Oil Health Benefits You Can Get for Hypothyroidism
Let’s dive a little deeper and go over the potential causes and symptoms of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). The many potential causes of hypothyroidism are as follows:
- Hashimoto Thyroiditis (autoimmune disorder)
- A diet low in iodine
- Thyroid gland that has been surgically removed
- Radiation exposure from radiation cancer treatments
- Various medications used to treat psychiatric conditions, cancer, and heart conditions
- Genetics
There are many symptoms of hypothyroidism such as:
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Lack of appetite
- Hair loss and/or dry hair
- Dry skin
- Fatigue
- Brittle nails
- Depression
- Muscle cramps
- Slow heart rate
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Goiter (when the thyroid gland becomes inflamed)
- Constipation
- Cold sensitivity, especially in the hands or feet
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
How can coconut oil help remedy symptoms of hypothyroidism? Let’s take a quick glance at the 6 ways it can help:
- Helps Fight Inflammation
- Soothes and Treats Dry, Flaky, and Itchy Skin
- Helps with Weight Loss
- Helps to Relieve Constipation
- Gives Your Metabolism and Immune System a Boost to Help You Fight Fatigue
- Helps to Prevent Hair Loss
Also, I will answer these 3 commonly asked questions:
- How much coconut oil can I consume a day?
- What kind of coconut oil has the best results?
- How can I include coconut oil in my daily diet?
Let’s begin!
Helps Fight Inflammation
Joint and muscle pain, caused by inflammation, are very common symptoms in patients with hypothyroidism. Increased inflammation of the body is caused by low thyroid hormone levels.
Coconut oil is one of the most effective remedies for repairing muscle tissues and relieving joint and muscle pain caused by inflammation.
To help decrease joint and muscle pain, simply massage warmed coconut oil onto the affected areas. This can be done 3-4 times a day.
Soothes and Treats Dry, Flaky, and Itchy Skin
Dry, flaky, and itchy skin is a common problem which patients with hypothyroidism deal with. An underactive thyroid causes a slowed metabolism which, in turn, causes reduced sweating. This leads to the dry, flaky, and itchy skin.
Coconut oil is highly effective in treating this common problem. The fatty acids content helps replenish lost moisture and helps to improve the health of your skin.
To help soothe dry, flaky, and itchy skin, massage warmed oil over the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Leave on for 30 minutes, then bathe or shower as normal. This can be done once a day.
Helps with Weight Loss
Weight gain is one of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. This is so as thyroid hormones directly affecting your metabolism. Those who suffer from an underactive thyroid often have difficulty losing weight.
The benefits of coconut oil for weight loss is rooted in its high triglycerides content. These are fatty acids responsible for metabolism boost. These medium-chain fatty acids can greatly help with weight loss. Stay tuned for the question portion of this article for the right dosage to help you with weight loss.
Helps to Relieve Constipation
Low thyroid hormone levels slow the normal functions of the human body. This includes the digestive tract, mainly the small and large intestines. Low thyroid levels can also weaken the muscles that line the digestive tract. This makes it difficult for stool to move with ease which causes constipation.
The medium-chain fatty acids content provide energy to the cells of the intestines. This stimulates bowel movement by boosting their metabolism. Coconut oil also works as a laxative, which helps to soften your stool.
Add a teaspoon of extra-virgin coconut oil to 6-8 ounces of warm milk. Drink this mixture every evening at bedtime. This will help to keep your digestive system regulated.
Gives Your Metabolism and Immune System a Boost to Help You Fight Fatigue
An underactive thyroid can lead to fatigue, one symptom that is a constant battle for many. Fatigue is caused by a weak immune system and low metabolism. The medium-chain fatty acids content in coconut oil will help boost your immune system to help you fight fatigue.
Add extra-virgin coconut oil to your daily diet. Stay tuned for the question portion of this article for the proper dosage to help you boost your metabolism and immune system.
Helps to Prevent Hair Loss
A thyroid gland not functioning properly can cause hair loss, which is common. It can affect all hair growth on the body (your scalp, eyebrows, and body hair).
The lauric acid content of coconut oil is of great benefit for hair loss. Since it is able to penetrate deep into each hair shaft, it is a go-to remedy for hair loss for so many with an underactive thyroid.
In the evening before bed, massage warmed extra-virgin oil onto your scalp for 5-7 minutes. Leave overnight and wash your hair with a gentle shampoo the following morning. This can be done a few times a week.
Commonly Asked Questions About Coconut Oil in Regards to Your Thyroid
How much coconut oil can I consume a day?
For consumption (taken internally), you can consume a total of 2 to 4 tablespoons a day. If you like, you can start with 2 tablespoons and work your way up to 4 tablespoons.
What kind of coconut oil has the best results?
For thyroid conditions, you must only use extra-virgin coconut oil for best results.
How can I include coconut oil in my daily diet?
You can add extra-virgin coconut oil to coffee, warmed milk, or hot tea. Also, use it when cooking meals. You can add it to shakes or smoothies. You can also add it to your soups and/or salads.
As we have pointed out time and again, every thyroid case is unique. What can work for you may not work for others and vice versa. Always consult with your doctor for any changes in your diet.
Do you include extra-virgin coconut oil in your daily diet to help remedy the symptoms of hypothyroidism? We would love to hear from you! Share with us in the comment section below.
Up Next: Fish Oil And Thyroid Medication: How It Affects Your TSH Levels
Editor’s Note – This post was originally published on December 7, 2017, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.
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