Hypothyroid and Weight Loss

Make it Watercress Juice!

An ancient green, watercress is said to have been a staple in the diet of Roman soldiers, which they used for energy and brain power. It is a part of the cruciferous vegetable family along with kale, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

Hippocrates, the father of medicine, used watercress to treat his patients. It was widely available until the 19th century and watercress sandwiches were a staple of the working class in England.

Body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus, which secretes hormones via the thyroid gland. The thyroid controls how your body burns calories and uses energy. Hypothyroid develops when there isn’t enough thyroid hormone. If you have symptoms such as chronic fatigue, inability to handle cold temperatures, low body temperature, a slow heart rate,  you gain weight easily, have PMS or other menstrual challenges such as heavy periods, muscle weakness, muscle cramps, hair loss, loss of outer ends of eyebrows, constipation, droopy eyes, or low immunity, you may have hypothyroidism.

It is suggested that you should limit cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale and not eat them every day while you are healing your thyroid. However, watercress is the exception. It is actually healing for the thyroid.

You should also avoid all caffeinated products, sugar and sugar substitutes, diet sodas, sodas, diet foods, white flour, and dairy products. Go 100 percent gluten-free. The molecular composition of thyroid tissue is almost identical to that of gluten. So for those with Hashimoto’s, it can be a case of mistaken identity where your body attacks the thyroid gland instead of the gluten. In other words, eating gluten can increase the autoimmune attack on your thyroid.

Watercress juice can help heal the thyroid and prevent weight gain. Consuming foods higher in iodine like kelp and watercress, and ensuring that you get enough B-complex vitamins and minerals like selenium (Brazil nuts are high), copper and zinc is also important. Iodine is the number one healer of under-active thyroids, and getting it from natural sources is important.

When it comes to weight loss, watercress can help you lose weight. It’s been proven in scientific studies. But where do you get it? I get that question a lot. Trader Joe’s carries it. If you don’t have a Trader’s, order my juice powder Garden’s Best. If has a generous amount of organic watercress juice powder.

Watercress Thyroid Helper

• 1 bunch watercress
• 1 lemon, peeled
• 1 medium size cucumber
• 3 large carrots
• 1 handful parsley
• 1 inch chunk fresh ginger root

Juice all ingredients. Stir and enjoy!

Serves 1