6 Best Natural Remedies For Hyperparathyroidism

Hyperparathyroidism is when one or more of the parathyroid glands in the neck produce too much parathyroid hormone. This can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, bone pain, and kidney stones. While medication and surgery are the most common treatment options, natural remedies can also help manage hyperparathyroidism symptoms. These remedies include diet changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications. This article will explore some of the most effective natural remedies for hyperparathyroidism.

Types Of HyperparathyroidismPrimary Hyperparathyroidism

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which one or more of the parathyroid glands in the neck produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH) due to a non-cancerous growth or tumor called an adenoma. This can lead to an elevation of calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia). It can also cause damage to the heart and blood vessels over time. The main treatment options for primary hyperparathyroidism are surgery to remove the affected parathyroid gland(s) and medication to control the symptoms and calcium levels.

Causes Of Primary Hyperparathyroidism

The most common cause of primary hyperparathyroidism is a non-cancerous growth or tumor called an adenoma on one or more parathyroid glands. These adenomas can cause the glands to overproduce parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to increased calcium levels in the blood. Other causes of primary hyperparathyroidism include

• Hyperplasia: an enlargement of all four parathyroid glands caused by a benign overgrowth of cells.

• Parathyroid carcinoma is rare cancer affecting the parathyroid glands.

• Inherited conditions such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1(MEN1) and familial isolated hyperparathyroidism.

• Chronic kidney disease or long-term use of certain medications, including lithium, can also increase the risk of primary hyperparathyroidism.

It is worth noting that most cases of primary hyperparathyroidism are caused by adenomas, while other causes are relatively rare.

Symptoms Of Primary Hyperparathyroidism

The symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the length of time it has been present. Some common symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism include

• Fatigue and weakness

• Bone pain, particularly in the bones of the spine, hips, and wrists

• Kidney stones

• Depression

• Abdominal pain and constipation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Increased thirst and urination

• Confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive changes

• Irritability and depression

• Osteoporosis

• Fractures, even with minor trauma

Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

It is a condition in which the parathyroid glands overproduce parathyroid hormone (PTH) as a response to low levels of calcium in the blood. This can occur due to an underlying condition or disease that affects the body's ability to absorb or regulate calcium.

Causes Of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

The most common causes of secondary hyperparathyroidism are:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD): As the kidneys become less able to filter the blood and produce active vitamin D, it leads to lower levels of calcium in the blood, which triggers the parathyroid glands to overproduce PTH in an attempt to increase calcium levels.

• Malabsorption syndromes: Conditions that affect the body's ability to absorb nutrients, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and cystic fibrosis, can cause secondary hyperparathyroidism.

• Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D helps absorb calcium from the gut. Low levels of vitamin D can lead to low levels of calcium, which can cause the parathyroid glands to overproduce PTH.

• Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids, anticonvulsants, and thiazide diuretics, can also lead to secondary hyperparathyroidism by affecting calcium metabolism.

• Other causes: Hypoparathyroidism, Pseudohypoparathyroidism, Chronic Liver disease, Hemodialysis.

Symptoms Of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism

The symptoms of secondary hyperparathyroidism can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include

• Fatigue and weakness

• Bone pain, particularly in the bones of the spine, hips, and wrists

• Kidney stones

• Depression

• Abdominal pain and constipation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Increased thirst and urination

• Confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive changes

• Irritability and depression

• Osteoporosis

• Fractures, even with minor trauma

Symptoms can also be related to the underlying condition that is causing the secondary hyperparathyroidism such as

• Chronic kidney disease: anemia, fatigue, muscle cramps, and itchy skin.

• Malabsorption syndromes: diarrhea, weight loss, and anemia.

• Vitamin D deficiency: muscle weakness and bone pain.

Foods To Avoid With Hyperparathyroidism

There are certain foods people with hyperparathyroidism should avoid helping manage the condition. These foods include

• Foods high in oxalates: Oxalates are naturally occurring substances in many foods, including spinach, beet greens, rhubarb, nuts, chocolate, and tea. High levels of oxalates can increase the risk of kidney stones in people with hyperparathyroidism.

• Dairy products: Consuming large amounts of dairy products can increase calcium levels in the blood, exacerbating hyperparathyroidism symptoms.

• Sodium-rich foods: Sodium can cause the body to retain calcium, leading to increased calcium levels in the blood. Foods high in sodium include processed foods, fast foods, and canned soups.

• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of bone loss, which can be a complication of hyperparathyroidism.

Diet For Hyperparathyroidism

A diet for hyperparathyroidism should focus on reducing the symptoms and complications of the condition by controlling the levels of calcium and other minerals in the blood. A diet for hyperparathyroidism should include

• Low-oxalate foods: Oxalates are naturally occurring substances found in many foods, including spinach, beet greens, rhubarb, nuts, chocolate, and tea. High levels of oxalates can increase the risk of kidney stones in people with hyperparathyroidism.

• Low-dairy products: Consuming large amounts of dairy can increase calcium levels in the blood, exacerbating hyperparathyroidism symptoms.

• Low-sodium foods: Sodium can cause the body to retain calcium, leading to increased calcium levels in the blood. Foods high in sodium include processed foods, fast foods, and canned soups.

• Adequate Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps absorb calcium from the gut. Low vitamin D levels can lead to low calcium levels, which can cause the parathyroid glands to overproduce PTH.

• Adequate protein: Hyperparathyroidism can cause bones to lose calcium, weakening them. Eating enough protein can help the body build and maintain strong bones.

• Adequate fluid intake: Drinking enough fluids can help prevent kidney stones, a common complication of hyperparathyroidism.

It is important to note that everyone's nutritional needs are different, and it's best to work with a dietitian or a healthcare professional to create a personalized eating plan that fits your specific needs.

Natural Remedies For Hyperparathyroidism

Several natural remedies for hyperparathyroidism can help manage the symptoms and improve overall health. Some natural remedies for hyperparathyroidism include

• Diet changes: Eating a diet low in oxalates, sodium, and dairy products can help reduce the risk of kidney stones and lower calcium levels in the blood. A diet that includes adequate amounts of Vitamin D, protein, and fluids can also help prevent complications of hyperparathyroidism.

• Vitamin D supplements: Vitamin D helps absorb calcium from the gut. Low vitamin D levels can lead to low calcium levels, which can cause the parathyroid glands to overproduce PTH.

• Calcium supplements: Calcium supplements should be avoided or used with caution as they can increase calcium levels in the blood. It is best to have a healthcare professional monitor your calcium levels while taking these supplements.

• Magnesium supplements: Magnesium is necessary to properly function the parathyroid glands. Low levels of magnesium can cause the parathyroid glands to overproduce PTH.

• Vitamin K2: Vitamin K2 is important for bone health and helps deposit calcium in the bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

• Herbs: Some herbs like Nettle leaf, Turmeric, and Holy basil have been traditionally used to help reduce symptoms of hyperparathyroidism.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which one or more of the parathyroid glands in the neck produce too much parathyroid hormone. This can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, bone pain, and kidney stones. While medication and surgery are the most common treatment options, natural remedies can also help manage hyperparathyroidism symptoms. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment and to use these natural remedies as support, not as a replacement for medical treatment.

I am Justen Beers, and my goal is to provide you with the safest and healthiest ways to overcome any ailment without harsh chemicals/medicines.