Natural ideas to help folks deal with issues including lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, skin problems. neuropathy, thyroid, Hashimoto's and other autoimmune diseases and associated health issues.
Having developed autoimmune sensitivity/disease early in adulthood, I have had to deal with more and more issues caused by the disease.
My skin has become a huge problem. When you have autoimmune sensitivity/disease your skin become sensitive to all dyes and perfumes, fragrances and chemicals. The immune system attacks the skin. Sensitive skin has been an issue with me since childhood. My first attack was after my best friends mom bought me my first eyeshadow assortment.
My eyes swelled shut overnight. Looked like two small pillows for eyelids.
I have been through every makeup product just about on the market. At first the sensitive skin makeups worked great.
Little did I know that was going to change as everything does with autoimmune issues.
I now have one makeup I can wear for about half a day when I need to go out in public or get my picture made.
This subject, like most of the others I will have to write about in multiple articles over time to cover the bases.
I was first diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis in my early 30’s. This is where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid.
This condition I will write many articles about in the future.
WE GOT A LOT TO COVER
Next came lactose issues and eventual lactose intolerance. This is something that took years to find as it gradually got worse. Causes intestinal issues if you get my drift. NO FUN!!!
I took so many Imodium I should have stock in the company.
Once we found out that it was lactose I of course started eating Lactaid. This worked for about 8 years.
I am now totally lactose intolerant.
Stay tuned, we will be posting many articles and tips and tricks on this issue in more detail as we build the website up.
Then I developed neuropathy where the nerves in the extremities start to die. My feet are numb but hurt, everyday.
After years of trying different shoes and socks I have found a combination that works rather well for me. I get wide shoes and I found some metatarsal foot pads for the bottom of the front of my feet. Also, found an insole that is very comfortably and a couple other things I do that I have found to work.
I will write a detailed article about my Neuropathy down the road.
Gluten sensitivity was next, that gradually got worse until I had to go gluten free.
Good news is there has never been a better time in the history of the world to be gluten sensitive.
Well, maybe good news/bad news. Many company’s have responded to the publics request for more gluten friendly foods and they are responding! Bad news is; it’s more expensive.
Natural-ideas.com is a website that my husband and I are making to help other folks with these issues come to grips with them along with tips, tricks and methods that we have developed to make my life a little more comfortable. All of this has required a lot of trial and error, research and plain old just trying stuff.
Its been a long (40 years+) and sometimes very uncomfortable process that we hope to make, just a bit easier for others.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
I used an AI program to give me the facts about the condition. Of course I am well aware, having the condition. The more technical parts of this post were AI generated and prof read for facts etc… Truth is I am not a very experienced writer and AI words stuff better than me. So if AI is going to invade our world, as it seems to be doing, I am going to use it for the good of mankind while I can.The Italicized sections of this article are my words so it’s easy to tell the difference.
Image Source: FreeImages
Introduction to Hashimoto’s: What is it and how does it affect the thyroid?
Hashimoto’s, also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. In Hashimoto’s, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and damage over time.
The exact cause of Hashimoto’s is still unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Women are more commonly affected by Hashimoto’s than men, and it often develops during middle age.
Understanding the link between Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism
Hashimoto’s is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. As the immune system attacks the thyroid, it gradually impairs its ability to produce hormones, resulting in a decrease in hormone levels. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and depression.
It’s important to note that not everyone with Hashimoto’s will develop hypothyroidism, but the majority of individuals with hypothyroidism have Hashimoto’s as the underlying cause. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is crucial for managing both Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism.
Common symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can present a variety of symptoms, which can vary in severity from person to person. Some common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, muscle weakness, depression, and constipation. Additionally, individuals with Hashimoto’s may experience swelling in the neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland, also known as a goiter.
It’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and management of Hashimoto’s can help prevent further complications and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Diagnosing Hashimoto’s: Tests and procedures to identify the condition
To diagnose Hashimoto’s, healthcare professionals typically rely on a combination of blood tests and imaging studies. The primary blood test used is the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test, which measures the levels of TSH in the blood. Elevated TSH levels are indicative of an underactive thyroid and can help confirm a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s.
In addition to the TSH test, doctors may also order blood tests to measure the levels of thyroid hormones, such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These tests can provide further insight into the functioning of the thyroid gland. Imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or a thyroid scan, may also be recommended to assess the size and structure of the thyroid gland.
Proper diagnosis is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan and managing the symptoms of Hashimoto’s.
We found that the primary blood test is not very accurate. I was suffering from quite a few symptoms, but the test showed my thyroid levels being within acceptable readings. My doctor sent me for an ultrasound and imaging because of the symptoms matching and she felt nodules. They found nodules all over the thyroid showing I had Hashimoto’s. My doctor also raised my hormone prescription once, even though the blood test came back normal, I was still suffering pretty bad with symptoms. This worked! So please talk with your doctor if your symptoms are still present. The treatment may not completely eliminate symptoms but it should vastly improve them.
You may have to find a doctor who is more open-minded and willing to work with you! They work for you; so, insist on getting what you pay for. God knows healthcare is expensive. Some doctors are just not willing to work with patients and its their way or the highway.
Be specific when speaking to a doctor about what you are looking to accomplish.
Hashimoto’s and autoimmune disorders: Exploring the connection
Hashimoto’s is classified as an autoimmune disorder, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are also known to coexist with Hashimoto’s.
The exact relationship between Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune disorders is not fully understood. However, researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of multiple autoimmune conditions. It’s important for individuals with Hashimoto’s to be aware of the potential risk of developing other autoimmune disorders and to discuss any concerning symptoms with their healthcare provider.
This is what I have found has happened to me. Hashimoto’s was the first sign of an autoimmune issue. As I have aged other autoimmune disorders have shown up. This is not what happens to everyone. So take heart.
Managing Hashimoto’s: Medications and treatment options
The management of Hashimoto’s typically involves a combination of medications and lifestyle modifications. The primary goal of treatment is to restore and maintain normal thyroid hormone levels in the body.
The most commonly prescribed medication for Hashimoto’s is synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This medication, usually taken orally, supplements the deficiency of thyroid hormones and helps alleviate the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Regular blood tests are essential to ensure that the dosage of the medication is appropriate and adjusted as needed.
I found out with my own experience, that which ever thyroid medication you are prescribed to begin with you will most likely need to continue for life. My doctor prescribed the name brand Synthroid and my body quickly adjusted to this. I tried, several years later when medications got expensive and insurance started to suck to switch to a cheaper generic and my body revolted. I quickly went down hill developing all the symptoms again. My doctor put me back on the name brand and I went back to where I was.
In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications can also play a significant role in managing Hashimoto’s. These may include adopting a healthy and balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress levels, and prioritizing adequate sleep. Working closely with a healthcare professional can help individuals develop a personalized management plan that addresses their specific needs.
Lifestyle changes to support thyroid health with Hashimoto’s
Incorporating certain lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on thyroid health and overall well-being for individuals with Hashimoto’s. Here are some key lifestyle modifications to consider:
Dietary choices: A nutrient-rich diet that includes foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can support thyroid health. Additionally, limiting the consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and caffeine can help reduce inflammation and promote optimal thyroid function.
Regular exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve metabolism, boost energy levels, and support overall well-being. It’s important to choose exercises that are appropriate for individual fitness levels and preferences. Consultation with a healthcare professional or a certified fitness instructor can provide guidance on developing an exercise routine that suits individual needs.
Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid health and exacerbate symptoms of Hashimoto’s. Exploring stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and engaging in hobbies can help reduce stress levels and promote emotional well-being.
By incorporating these lifestyle changes, individuals with Hashimoto’s can take an active role in supporting their thyroid health and overall quality of life.
Hashimoto’s and diet: Foods to eat and avoid
A well-balanced diet is essential for individuals with Hashimoto’s to provide the necessary nutrients and support thyroid health. While there are no specific dietary restrictions for Hashimoto’s, certain foods may be beneficial to include or avoid.
They have found if you drink grapefruit juice or eat walnuts or high fiber that these inhibit the absorption of the drug.
Foods to eat: Include foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc, as these nutrients play a crucial role in thyroid function. Good sources of iodine include seaweed, seafood, and iodized salt. Selenium-rich foods include Brazil nuts, eggs, and sunflower seeds. Zinc can be found in foods such as beef, poultry, legumes, and nuts.
Foods to avoid: Some individuals with Hashimoto’s may benefit from avoiding certain foods that can potentially exacerbate inflammation or interfere with thyroid function. These may include gluten, soy, and processed foods. It’s important to note that the elimination of these foods should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure a balanced diet is maintained.
It’s important to remember that dietary recommendations may vary depending on individual needs and response to specific foods. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance on dietary choices for individuals with Hashimoto’s.
Alternative therapies for Hashimoto’s: Exploring natural remedies
While conventional medical treatments are the mainstay for managing Hashimoto’s, some individuals may seek alternative or complementary therapies to support their overall well-being. It’s important to note that these therapies should not replace medical treatment but can be used in conjunction with conventional approaches.
Herbal supplements: Some herbs, such as ashwagandha and guggul, have been traditionally used to support thyroid health. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any herbal supplements, as they may interact with medications or have potential side effects.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Some individuals with Hashimoto’s report improvement in symptoms, such as fatigue and pain, after acupuncture sessions. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of acupuncture for Hashimoto’s.
Mind-body practices: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and tai chi can help reduce stress, improve relaxation, and promote overall well-being. These practices may be beneficial for individuals with Hashimoto’s by supporting emotional and mental health.
It’s crucial to discuss any alternative therapies with a healthcare professional to ensure their safety and effectiveness in managing Hashimoto’s.
Coping with Hashimoto’s: Emotional and mental well-being
Living with a chronic condition like Hashimoto’s can have a significant impact on emotional and mental well-being. The symptoms of Hashimoto’s, such as fatigue, depression, and weight gain, can take a toll on an individual’s quality of life. Here are some strategies to support emotional and mental well-being:
Seek support: Connecting with others who have Hashimoto’s or joining support groups can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences, struggles, and successes can help individuals navigate the challenges of living with Hashimoto’s.
Practice self-care: Engaging in activities that promote self-care and stress relief, such as taking time for hobbies, practicing mindfulness, and prioritizing rest, can help improve overall well-being.
Consider therapy: Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can provide a safe space to process emotions, develop coping strategies, and address any underlying mental health concerns.
Remember, it’s essential to prioritize emotional and mental well-being alongside physical health when managing Hashimoto’s.
Hashimoto’s and pregnancy: Considerations for women
For women with Hashimoto’s, pregnancy can bring unique considerations and challenges. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can impact thyroid function and potentially worsen symptoms of Hashimoto’s. It’s crucial for women with Hashimoto’s to work closely with their healthcare provider to ensure optimal thyroid health during pregnancy.
Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is essential, as the dosage of thyroid medication may need to be adjusted throughout pregnancy. Adequate prenatal care, including routine check-ups and blood tests, can help ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Women with Hashimoto’s who are planning to conceive should discuss their plans with their healthcare provider to optimize thyroid health before pregnancy. By working closely with medical professionals, women with Hashimoto’s can have a successful and healthy pregnancy.
Support groups and resources for those with Hashimoto’s
Finding support and reliable resources is crucial for individuals with Hashimoto’s to navigate their journey and stay informed. Here are some sources of support and information:
Support groups: Joining local or online support groups can provide a sense of community and a platform to share experiences, ask questions, and receive support from others living with Hashimoto’s.
Patient advocacy organizations: Organizations such as the American Thyroid Association (ATA) and the Thyroid Foundation of Canada offer valuable resources, educational materials, and support for individuals with Hashimoto’s.
Online communities: Engaging with online communities and forums dedicated to Hashimoto’s can provide a wealth of information, personal stories, and support from individuals who have firsthand experience with the condition.
Remember, while these resources can provide valuable support and information, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment.
Conclusion: Living well with Hashimoto’s
Living with Hashimoto’s can present challenges, but with proper management and support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. By understanding the condition, seeking appropriate medical care, making lifestyle modifications, and prioritizing emotional well-being, individuals with Hashimoto’s can take control of their health and thrive.
If you have any personal experiences or tips for living with Hashimoto’s, we encourage you to share them in the discussion/comments section below. Together, we can create a supportive community and help others facing similar challenges on their Hashimoto’s journey.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
Please, if you have any ideas for foods, natural tips or tricks, or other ideas or stuff that works for you, leave in the comments section. I will look at each one and post to the site, so we can all help each other.
We had this the other night for desert. They were fantastic! With a low sugar content and its all gluten and milk free. What more can you ask for?
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
I have always had sensitive skin, but as I got older it has become more and more sensitive. Now I can put very little on my skin, without some sort of irritation. Allergy! Wish I had never heard of that word.
Years went by, as I grew up with occasional breakouts or rashes that we had no explanation for.
My first known skin reaction to makeup was when I was 13, my mom said I could start wearing eye makeup. My best friends mom, bought me a whole set of every color of eye shadow you could think of. The next morning my eyelid’s looked like two puffy marshmallows. This was when I knew I was going to have problems with some makeup.
As things got worse I started getting irritation in the female areas and I was getting yeast infections and UTI’s all the time, it seemed. I found that if I used betadine to clean myself off during every shower. This helped prevent most yeast infections and urinary track infections.
One doctor told me it was all in my head. He was the man who delivered my first son and my gynecologist.
These are other stories for another day.
My regular doctor was seeing more and more of this problem with women and male doctors. She started researching and attending conferences all over the country, learning about all the different medical ideologies and seeing what was working for her patients and what wasn’t.
She has saved my life or at least my sanity. Well, maybe life anyway?
I’m going to try and talk her into writing some articles for the website. Wish me luck! She’s between a rock and a hard place when so many folks in our area will not look at anything that’s not being pushed by the modern medicine mindset.
Anyway I digress, where were we? Something else that happens more often with age.
After non-stop irritation in the private areas and infection, after infection my doctor realized, after considerable research, that I had a yeast infection that had gotten in my blood!
She gave me an antibiotic that I had to take a low dose of for several months along with enough Monistat to float a battleship to fight the external yeast.
This finely cured the problem but not why it happed and how can we stop it from every happening again?
We had no Idea?
My doctor recommended I start wearing loose fitting pants etc… to let the private area breath a little. Too warm and wet of an environment is a breeding ground for yeast.
After all this, I was willing to do darn near anything to not repeat the mess I had just been through.
I got loose fitting pants.
I hate dresses.
I got all cotton underware; as I found out I was also sensitive to some synthetic or animal fibers.
Everything I tried helped just a little but didn’t stop the irritation from nearly driving me mad! Maybe it did come to think of it.
Got to laugh a little when life throws the stuff in the fan.
I don’t remember if it was my idea or my doctors but we thought about using some different detergents to wash clothing in.
This was about the time when All Free and clear and Tide Free and clear (gentle now) started hitting the market! Perfect timing!!
It WORKED!!!!!!!……..For about five years…….
Well I knew at this point what to look out for. I have had to really listen to my body, experiment and unfortunately suffer through many failures.
As the old sensitivities begin to raise their little ugly heads again, years later, I went on the hunt with my husbands help looking for alternatives.
I got lucky when I married this aggravating man as he became a chemical technician. Using his experience with chemistry and research methodology, we went on the hunt for the specific chemicals responsible for my skin issues and allergies.
We quickly realized that most detergents, at the time, had so many added chemicals that it would be darn near impossible to determine which ones were a problem.
I went online and started doing my own research into more natural alternatives to replace and experiment with to see if I could find something that didn’t drive me out of my tree with itching and hives.
After a couple of tries I stumbled on a recipe that I use to this day that doesn’t irritate me in the slightest. I can’t remember exactly where I first saw it but I just did a quick online search and found the exact recipe.
I have no idea if this is where I got it to start with but I hate to take credit for something that I looked up somewhere else.
Recipe I use makes one gallon – see pictures of products below –
Take 4 cups of water and heat in microwave for 3.5 minuets.
Add 4 tablespoons of each of the following
Doctor Bronners unscented baby soap
Arm and Hammer Washing Soda
20 Mule Team Borax
Mix until dissolved and pore in gallon jug and fill with water
The above makes a super saturated liquid that after cooling will form solids so make sure to shake before each use.
We use 1/4 cup per load which is 4 tablespoons. Funny how that number keeps coming up.
I see after looking at their above page; they originally shared the recipe in 2014 and its the exact one I use. Please go to the above link. It has to be the one I found to start with. It will open in a separate tab. Don’t want you to click away out of our site.
Every homemade recipe for laundry and cleaning that I use, I got somewhere else and I will always try to give credit, even if its the wrong site. We are all in this life together and we need to work together to make our lives a little better each day.
Remember; everyone is different and what works for me may not work for you.
Good news about this recipe is that it’s CHEAP to use!
I did a quick and dirty comparison with a national brand detergent that is “Free and Clear” it wasn’t the most expensive one so my husband’s math shouldn’t be skewed.
Major detergent using my local Walmart prices came to .14 cents per load
Homemade, itch free detergent came to .05 cents per load!!!! Almost 300% cheaper!
If I had used that large container of Castile soap that I can by at Amazon in the calculation, it would have been ever cheaper.
By the way. I use about 4 oz. per full load and 2 oz. per half load. I used 4 oz for every load in my calculation of the price for each.
I have to use Doctor Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Baby unscented Pure-Castile soap.
DISCLAIMER: THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. The purpose of this website is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
We are fast at work on building the website but the webmaster (me) is out of practice and its taking longer than I thought. Please be patient with us we think you will really like and find useful what we have found to help with a variety of health issues. Check out our home page for my wife’s story (as soon as I can get it written up). You may learn something from reading about her discoveries.
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