Nervous System, Toxins, and Your Thyroid
Hey, incredible women! If you’re struggling with thyroid symptoms like fatigue or mood swings from Hashimoto’s or Graves’, your nervous system and environmental toxins could be key players. As a certified nutrition specialist and licensed nutritionist, I’m here to explain how your nervous system supports digestion and how reducing toxins helps your thyroid. Let’s dive into simple ways to optimize both, based on nutritional therapy principles.
Nervous System and Digestion
Your nervous system, especially the vagus nerve, is like a superhighway connecting your brain and gut. It’s part of the “rest and digest” system, boosting digestion when you’re relaxed. Stress triggers “fight or flight” mode, slowing digestion and nutrient absorption, which can starve your thyroid and worsen symptoms like brain fog.
The Vagus Nerve’s Role
The vagus nerve signals your stomach to produce acid and your intestines to absorb nutrients like selenium. When stressed, this signal weakens, reducing nutrient delivery. For example, low selenium can increase thyroid inflammation. Relaxing before meals strengthens this connection.
Toxins and Your Thyroid
Environmental toxins like BPA, phthalates, and PFAS (from plastics, cans, or receipts) disrupt thyroid hormones and increase inflammation. A 2019 study found home-cooked meals lower PFAS levels by 5%. Poor digestion can trap toxins, stressing your thyroid. Supporting digestion helps remove them via bile.
Why This Matters
A calm nervous system and low toxin exposure ensure your thyroid gets nutrients and stays less inflamed, easing autoimmune flares.
Common Issues
Stress or toxin exposure can:
Slow digestion, limiting nutrients.
Increase inflammation, worsening thyroid symptoms.
Disrupt hormone balance.
Practical Tips
Try these to support your nervous system and reduce toxins:
Deep Breathing: Take 5 deep breaths before meals to boost vagus nerve activity.
Eat in a Calm Space: Avoid screens while eating.
Reduce Toxins: Use glass containers and avoid canned foods.
Choose Whole Foods: Try salmon or nuts.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water to aid detox.
Try Supplements: Magnesium or NAC for detox at www.outofthewoodsnutrition.com/dispensary (consult your doctor).
Why It Helps
A calm nervous system and lower toxins improve digestion, fuel your thyroid, and reduce symptoms like fatigue.
Work With Your Doctor
I don’t diagnose, but I can guide you with diet. Work with your healthcare provider to monitor thyroid levels and discuss stress or toxin exposure.
Take Action
Try deep breathing this week. Book a consultation at www.outofthewoodsnutrition.com. Visit www.outofthewoodsnutrition.com/dispensary. Reply for a custom tip!
How do you relax before meals? Comment below!
About the Author: I’m a certified nutrition specialist and licensed nutritionist, helping women with thyroid conditions feel vibrant. Visit www.outofthewoodsnutrition.com for more tips.
