Thyroid Awareness Month - Let's Discuss Constipation

Happy Thyroid Awareness Month! This year I want to discuss symptoms and how they relate to me. I encourage you to join a on the conversation and share dialogue with me. I'm going to throw the first symptom out there right now. 

Constipation. I said it. Things slowed considerably down for me when I began my struggles with hypothyroidism, and they never really picked back up. I'm lactose intollerant, so from time to time, I'd have a scoop of ice cream or yogurt and that would send me to the bathroom in a matter of seconds. That is no longer the case. That creamy goodness is horrible and wouldn't move for me even if I prayed, without a little stimulant boost.

When you have hypothyroidism, several of your body's functions slow down. I have days when I feel like I'm moving in slow motion. My mind even slows down. Constipation is one of those symptoms that has been long standing for me, I've come to terms with having it as a lasting symptom, but I try to fight it. Sometimes, it beats me. However, on the regular, no pun intended. Trust me, my regular is another woman's insanely irregular.

I try these things to get things moving:

Water - A lot, daily.

Exercise - Think about walking. If you walk for about 20 minutes, you can get things moving. Be regular in walking, or moving around, and that can spark something for you, something inside you!

Veggies & Berries - I love all vegetable. I am selective when it comes to fruits. Raspberries and blueberries are delicious and fiberlicious! Your colon will love you.

Spinach - I love spinach, whether it's served hot or cold. I usually eat it with salmon a few times a week, paired with a brisk walk and at least 72 ounces of water on those salmon and spinach days, and I get things moving, pun most definitely intended!

Fiber supplements or stimulant and herbal laxatives: Depending on what type of despair I am in, these are my alternative options. If I am feeling sick, bloated, and begin experiencing headaches and start having nightmares about toxic overload, then I reach for something in this selection. Don't overuse or abuse. Seek relief, and do so with discretion. Love yourself first and when you do, you will see that your body will love you in return, even on those days that it's a definite struggle.

Do what works for you. Tell me what you have noticed in your thyroid health in the area of constipation. I've read that people aren't talking about it. Let's make it a symptom that people start talking about. Excuse me, I need to run to the ladies room.

Good day!