How to make summer bearable when you're hyperthyroid
Noticed that your thyroid symptoms are worse when summer kicks in? If your thyroid is overactive, you’ll be more prone to symptoms during the warmer months. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence - there are steps you can take to make the season more bearable.
Hot weather tips for hyperthyroidism
GET YOUR THYROID LEVELS CHECKED
Yes, even if you were ‘within range’ just a couple of months ago! If your heat intolerance is more noticeable than usual, it could be an indicator that your thyroid hormones are running too high.
It may also be worth checking your antibody levels, as you may be experiencing a flare if your thyroid issues are autoimmune in nature.
Exercise sensibly
Physical activity is a balancing act when you have an overactive thyroid. Over summer, it’s critical that you are sensible about exercise and err on the side of caution. That means:
Working out in an air-conditioned space if possible e.g. a gym
If you don’t have access to air-con, exercise when the temp is the lowest (early morning is best, as late evening may be too stimulating before bed)
Opt for lower-intensity exercise options - skip the HIIT and hectic Crossfit sessions until it cools down!
Watch out for your warning signs - learn more about those here
Wear light, loose-fitting clothes
What you wear can make a big difference to your temperature regulation! Your best bet? Wear lighter colours as much as possible. These reflect the sunlight, whereas darker colours can absorb heat and make you feel much hotter.
Loose-fitting garments are also best, as it improves ventilation.
Cool down with ice
Ice is going to be your best friend over the warmer months! There are several ways you can use ice to keep yourself at a comfortable temperature.
First up, there is ice in your drinks. You may like to add ice to your water bottles and beverages, and you could invest in a bottle that is insulated to maintain the cold temp.
Frozen foods can also be a nice way to cool down. For example, frozen fruit is a great way to get your fibre & antioxidants in, while also staying cool! Frozen grapes, cherries and mango chunks are a few popular options to snack on.
I don’t recommend going overboard with ice cream or icy poles that are packed with sugar. If possible, make your own with fresh fruit.
Ice can also be applied topically if you’re overheated. Apply ice (cubes, packs or even frozen peas) to areas such as your wrists, the back of your neck and your feet. This can help to cool you right down - and quickly.
have a chill night routine
After a day of feeling overheated, you may struggle to cool down enough to get a good night of rest. But we also know that sleep is crucial for hyperthyroid management! So what can you do?
Try these tips:
Take a cool shower before bed to lower your core temperature
Use a light blanket or sheet, rather than a heavy doona
Opt for cotton or bamboo bedding, as they are more breathable and stay cooler
Invest in a cooling design pillow or a cool mat to remove some of your body heat
Cool the room as much as possible before bed with either a fan or air-con
NEED SOME GUIDANCE TO MANAGE YOUR HYPERTHYROIDISM?
I cover what you need to know to manage an overactive thyroid naturally in my course, the Hyperthyroid and Graves’ Disease Recovery Program.
This comprehensive program includes:
6 modules covering the most important information you need to understand your overactive thyroid and how to support it naturally
Resources on thyroid testing and which tests will give you the best overview of your thyroid function
Steps to help you identify triggers and avoid thyroid flares
6 restorative Naturopathic Yoga sessions
Thyroid meditations
A BONUS 4 step gut healing protocol (because many of the triggers for your thyroid are found in the gut!)