I haven’t always been as healthy as I am now. In fact, twice in my lifetime, I have suffered serious illness and I understand first hand, the feeling of being caught in a maze of mainstream medicine and the effort it takes to return to health. As a child, I developed a cardiac disorder (more about that here) and more recently an autoimmune thyroid disorder. I thought I’d share my story….
In May of 2004, my beautiful baby girl was born. I’m not exaggerating when I say she was the calmest, most easy going baby ever. She breastfed well, slept through the night from around 4 weeks of age, rarely screamed, spewed or became agitated. As a result, I didn’t really feel that adjustment that parenting brings – at least not right away. But this isn’t a story about babies and for the record my calm baby developed into the most ferociously strong willed toddler (and now a child)- so every rose has a thorn!
However this idyllic child made it very easy for me to fulfil a kind of ‘super mum’ fantasy – and for a while, I pulled it off. I took maternity leave from my naturopathic practice the week before she was due and because she was a great sleeper, I was back at work again when she was just 5 weeks old (pumping breast milk in my lunch break and between patients). ‘My patients need me, rely on me’ I told myself. You see, I am a very committed and loyal person, often to my own detriment. I was also mindful that, like many young families, we were struggling financially and needed my wage to pay the bills. My husband was working in a car yard 6 days (and almost 70 hours) a week and so wasn’t home much to help with raising our new bub. In hindsight, we were on a fast train to disaster (couldn’t see it then, but certainly do now).
My collapse
Not long before my daughter turned two, I got sick with a nasty virus called cytomegalovirus. I was still breastfeeding, working, mothering and doing everything I could do to hold it together. I dealt with the virus herbally and got better quickly, but I didn’t change my crazy lifestyle or consider what made me vulnerable to infection in the first place. As a result, soon after my health really fell apart. I felt exhausted, yet I couldn’t sleep. My heart was racing and I was so anxious all of the time. I managed to keep my focus at work but outside of that, my brain was in pieces. I felt apathetic and lost all motivation to keep going. I was losing weight but couldn’t stop eating. Most of all I felt intense shame and embarrassment- I was a naturopath, ‘we don’t get sick.’ I ate well, exercised regularly but I was still unwell and holding on desperately to my ‘healthy’ image. When I could no longer ignore the way I felt, I sought help.
Dealing with Graves
I had a heap of tests and discovered that I had an overactive thyroid, later diagnosed as an autoimmune disease called Graves Disease. My fast paced life had firmly bitten me on my butt and I was forced to come to a grinding halt. Now I’ve always maintained in life we are given warnings – illness is the greatest warning of all that we need to take stock of our lives, make necessary changes. So I really needed to sort my lifestyle out!
My husband had been offered a job with fewer hours, good pay but (here’s the catch) on the other side of the country. I had absolutely resisted the move, until my Grave’s diagnosis. You see I loved my work, friends and family, I really didn’t want to move. But I just knew I couldn’t keep up the pace and this move would mean I could focus on getting myself well. Without my health, my business, the money, friends, and family meant nothing anyway.
Informed choice…
So first off I saw a specialist, had heaps of tests and sorted through my options. I weaned my daughter, started beta blockers (my heart rate and a history of a heart disorder) were of real concern in the short term I then sought the opinion of my close friend (a naturopath). With all of my options explored, I made an informed decision to attempt to deal with my condition without thyroid medication and I cut a deal with my slightly miffed endocrinologist. We agreed I would do my thing, have blood tests every few months and, as long as my condition trended in the right direction, I would not start medication or any of the radical treatments he was advising I undertake. He told me that given the aggressive nature of my condition, the likelihood of me resolving it (without medication) was highly unlikely. But I had a goal and my main driving force was that I really wanted to have another baby and I wasn’t keen to risk taking any medication whilst pregnant. He had said that given my age and condition, having another child would be unlikely and that even if I did conceive, the pregnancy would tip me back into hyperthyroid. So it was really important to me that I got myself well – fast and permanently! I am a very determined person and I truly believe in the body’s ability to heal. Working with many chronically unwell patients over the years has taught me that the body can and does heal, given the right support.
Long story short…
We moved to QLD (from Perth) and it was a tough road of managing my illness whilst mothering a now determined little girl without any family support. My holistic treatment plan evolved as the months ticked by and included herbal medicine (tailored to my unique body), reiki, kinesiology and daily meditation. I tried to be kinder to myself.
A holistic treatment plan involves tailoring herbs and supplements to the individual and adjusting it through the various stages of healing – it is NOT a one size fits all treatment so what worked for me, won’t necessarily work for you. Even though I am a Naturopath, I consulted with a Naturopath for my ongoing treatment (even for a practitioner it’s impossible to be objective enough to formulate an effective treatment plan). Many systems of the body need to be addressed besides the thyroid, in my case a lot if work was done on supporting my nervous system, adrenals and liver. My treatment plan was tweaked each and every month. If you feel a holistic health plan is for you, please find a clinician to support you.
Each blood test revealed a slow but steady improvement and my endocrinologist had no choice but to accept that I was remitting (though each visit he reminded me it wouldn’t last). About a year later I was back to normal. I conceived and carried my son without event and for the second time in my life, proved the medical establishment very wrong (I’ve written about my past heart condition here).
The monkey on my shoulder
It’s been almost 8 years since being diagnosed and I never want to go back to that place, even though I learned so much about myself and my body during that period of illness. When my stress levels elevate, I occasionally feel myself sliding or standing on that precipice. It will always be a monkey on my shoulder but one I’m willing to bear. It has ultimately shaped me professionally and personally, without a doubt, for the better.
Love for you to share your wellness journey and as always, I’d love to receive your questions.
Lucy says
I think you are an AMAZING person. So strong, so determined and just plain brilliant. And I haven’t even met you (yet!). I love this, thank you for sharing your story. xoxo
Lucy says
I think you are an AMAZING person. So strong, so determined and just plain brilliant. And I haven’t even met you (yet!). I love this, thank you for sharing your story. xoxo
Georgia Harding says
Aww thanks Lucy. I’m rather normal really, but yes very determined. In a strange way, I’m sort of grateful for the experience of being unwell. It has really shaped me personally and professionally for the better. G x
Lucy says
I think you are an AMAZING person. So strong, so determined and just plain brilliant. And I haven’t even met you (yet!). I love this, thank you for sharing your story. xoxo
Lucinda says
Thanks for sharing Georgia. I’d be interested to know more about your health plan back to balance. I have the opposite problem. Post pregnancy hypothyroidism. I have also resisted medication. Last year I had a few months of doing well and bringing my health back to balance. This year (particularly the last month) I’ve been sliding backwards again. It can be tough not having enough energy to even respond properly (or at times at all) to my daughters. The lethargy can be debilitating. Thank you for sharing your story.
Georgia Harding says
Hi Lucinda. I’d really recommend seeking the support of a good naturopath. Herbal medicine was an integral part of my recovery as was stress management techniques (I tried a lot until I found what felt right, in my case I found an amazing reiki practitioner). Your thyroid is your barometer of stress so lifestyle changes are a must. In my experience, hypothyroidism is also extremely responsive to herbal treatment. You really need to prioritise your own health, which I understand is hard for a busy mum. But you’re no good to your family feeling wiped out so get to it. It might not be easy, but it is entirely possible! All the very best Lucinda G x
Megan says
Hi Georgia – just wondering who your Reiki practitioner is/was? I am in Brisbane and would be interested in doing to someone too, no diagnosed thyroid but stressed and completely sleep deprived with two sleepless toddlers and wouldn’t be surprised if heading it that direction.
Georgia Harding says
Hi Megan. She was actually on the Sunshine Coast but moved back to the UK a while ago, sorry. Perhaps have your thyroid checked and also read my post on adrenal fatigue https://wellnourished.com.au/adrenal-fatigue/ Look after yourself G x
Mia says
Hi Georgia,
I just came across your post. Thank you for sharing and well done! Do you have the details of the naturopath in the UK, as I am based in the UK?
Many thanks.
Mia
Georgia Harding says
So sorry, I don’t know of any practitioners in the UK any more Mia. Ask around and see if you can get a word of mouth referral perhaps G x
Shelly Hammond says
i appreciate you sharing your truth.Can you please share exactly what herbal treatment helped you. ivr heard brazil nuts could help. Thank you
Well Nourished Team says
Hi Shelly, even though I’m a Naturopath, I did work personally with a Naturopath to treat my Graves. The herbs I took were unique for my condition/ past medical history etc and they changed each month as I healed. Holistic health care is not a one size fits all approach to healing. Lemon Balm and Bugleweed were two herbs that I took fairly consistently, but in combination with many other herbs in a customised liquid herbal tonic. I’d strongly recommend getting support and not going alone with this. It really was the key to me remitting so quickly and permanently (it’s been well over 15 years now since my Grave’s diagnosis). Georgia 😊
Sandy says
Thanks so much for this, my SIL has graves and has been on medication for over 12 months now, she is looking into having the more drastic options done soon. I suggested a naturopath ages ago and she wouldnt talk to me for weeks, offended her apparently. I wish I could share your story with her because its beautiful 🙂
Georgia Harding says
Thanks Sandy. As frustrating as it is, I’ve found sometimes you have to let others discover their own paths, especially when they aren’t looking for solutions or alternatives to their chosen therapy. Grave’s also messes with your mind and tests your will so you really need to dig deep to tackle it. So lovely of you to take the time to comment. I hope your SIL finds health, G x
Brigitte says
Thank you for sharing your story. Just another reminder to take life a little slower … which I’m starting to. I have a 2.5 year old, who now sleeps well but I was up every 2.5 hours until she was 22 months old (I breastfed until about 1.5 months ago) and have been working from home since she was born. I feel very fortunate to not have to go back to work (outside the home) but finances do put a strain on things so leaves me sometimes working until the wee hours of the morning (graphic designer) to get the work done for the following day. In those times, I am no good to anyone and find myself falling asleep by mid morning. Thank goodness for my daughter sleeping like an angel now as I sooo look forward to her naps where I’m often falling to sleep on the books I’m reading to her. At least i get to have a nap then. Small things like this from different areas in my life are just a reminder. slow down! Thank you.
Georgia Harding says
So pleased to offer a reminder to you to slow down. You know I had treated so many burnt out, stressed out, sick mums over the years – and I still didn’t realise the potential for me to end up in the same boat. I really thought I was bullet proof, then it was to late. So glad your daughter is sleeping well now – sleep is SO important for wellness. G x
Humaira says
Hi Georgia
I really came across your story for a reason today as I got another blood test to tell me my hyperthyroidism is getting worse. I came off medication 4 months ago in hope my positive mind would help heal.
Do you by any chance remember what kind of herbal medicines you took to help heal and if this has been a permanent fix for you? X
Georgia Harding says
Humaira the herbs and supplements I took varied a lot throughout the course of my treatment. A holistic approach customised treatments to the individual and stages of healing. It’s not a one pill for one condition kind of medicine. A good naturopath will be able to help you find your fix, all the best G x
Fatma says
Hi. My son was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism last year. He’s 10 now. We only had him take meds once but have been resisting since then. I want a cure, not a bandaid. I’m glad I came across your blog. We are told that there’s no cure for this and that but i don’t believe that. Really happy for you that you arrived at a better place. I will look into naturopathy and energy healing which i understand is similar to reiki…i sometimes use essential oils to help him. Thnx once again!
Well Nourished Team says
Hi Fatma, so glad you found the content useful 🙂
Sharon Peters says
Hi Georgia. Thanks for sharing your story. I was diagnosed with graves in 2000. I took medication for 18 mths and was well for 10yrs. Graves returned twice in 2 yrs so I reluctantly had radioactive iodine treatment 18 mths ago – worst thing ever!! I’m back on medication but really want to get off it. I’ve just started my food journey. Tried a few naturopaths but haven’t found the right one so I’m reading as much as I can. Which foods do you think are important to remove from your diet? I am interested to hear why you started eating meat again. Thanks 🙂
Georgia Harding says
Hi Sharon, I haven’t actually removed a lot of foods at all. I strictly limit sugar (especially fructose), moderate gluten and grains, I have loads of variety of good quality whole foods in my diet. My focus is on the quality and wholeness of the food I eat. I also support and nurture my gut health every single day.
I started eating meat more out of intuition really – it has been a gradual process, but I do feel better with a little quality sources of animal based protein in my diet.
Stress management is the key for my wellness, my nervous system is my personal weakness.
I hope you find the right person to work with. Even with my years of experience treating many people with Graves, I still sought a Naturopath to work with. It’s hard to be impartial and end up going around in circles treating yourself. Ultimately I think it also costs more too.
All the very best on your wellness journey, take care, G x
Cel says
Your story is inspiring. We have found out my husband is developing an autoimmune disease and I’ve booked him in to a naturopath straight away. I think this will help prevent his symptoms worsening. I wish to see him healthier than ever and have all the energy to chase after 2 little boys
Georgia Harding says
Thanks Cel. I wish your husband all the very best. I truly believe with determination and commitment to your own wellness, the body can and does heal. G x
Maria says
Hi Georgia, I was diagnosed with Graves 4 months ago. We have also discovered that I am allergic to both prescription medicines for Graves. Can you recommend a Naturopath in the perth area? I am not familiar with any and don’t have money to spare trying to find one that has experience with this. Thanks for sharing your story. I too believe I have the power to overcome this naturally 🙂
Georgia Harding says
I feel for you Maria, I have heard of allergies to meds a lot lately. You’re in luck, my own Naturopath (Chevonne Clasen) has a clinic in Perth. She is on maternity leave but has a lot of awesome practitioners that work for her. Perhaps explain your diagnosis when booking so they can pare you with the best clinician. She is at Remede (Glyde street in Mosman Park). All the very best, G x
Alysha says
Hi Georgia. Have just come across your inspiring story of getting your health back to normal without medication. I was diagnosed with Graves disease Aug 2016 on a trip back to Sydney (was living in China at the time) and had 24hrs to stop breastfeeding and start medication as my condition was so bad. I have been on medication since which has got me back to normal and I believe at my next appointment my doctor will be suggesting I stop medication altogether. I never want to go back to the way I was and cannot afford to do so as I have 5 children who I need to care for. I would love to sit down with a really good naturopath to look at my lifestyle and what changes need to be implemented. Do you have a recommendation for a Sydney based naturopath? thank you
Georgia Harding says
Hi Alysha, sorry for the late reply, I somehow overlooked your comment. Yes I understand it is an awful way to feel, I remember it all too well that’s for sure. Certainly Naturopathy has a lot to offer when coming off meds, it’s a great support. I have it on good authority the Leah Hechtman and also Melanie Koeman are fabulous Naturopathic practitioners in Sydney. Wishing you all the very best G x
Addisons says
Know anyone in Melbourne?
Georgia Harding says
These practitioners come highly recommended to me:
Galia Atteslander (Caulfelid Natural Health)
Wendy Richards (Vital Chi, Blackburn)
Mandi Azoulay (Chinese med/naturopath – Caulfeild)
Joanne Davis says
Hi finding your site was just what i was looking for.
After my Dad passed away in September 2013 I became my Mothers fulltime carer until she passed away in May 2017. After feeling absolutely awful for months and thinking it was just grief and carers burnout, my Dr requested a thyroid panel on a hunch as I wasnt your typical hyperthyroid as I was not losing any weight.
I was diagnosed with Graves disease in November 2017 and have been on medication since.
It has been a bumpy ride so far trying to deal with the Graves and also my grief. I despererately want to get my health back as I feel it is impacting all areas of my life for the worse and I am only 47 years old.
I live in northern nsw close to Byron Bay.
Can you recommend a good naturopath and Reiki therapist either in this area or I am willing to travel to the Gold Coast for treatment.
Georgia Harding says
Oh Joanne, you’ve had such a tough time. I’m so, so sorry for your all your loss, it doesn’t surprise me your thyroid has been giving you trouble. I can recommend Jules (http://julesgalloway.com) and I’m sure she will know a good reiki therapist if needed in the area. It’s not the easiest condition to treat, but with the right support, I have no doubt you can get your health back on track. Meditation is certainly something you need to invest a little time in too. I love a free app called ‘insight timer’ – it has thousands of guided meditations to choose from.
Sorry for the slight delay responding (I have a school holiday backlog on everything). Wishing you all the very best G x
Mariana says
Hi!
Do you recommend any naturopath in Perth?
How about The Lucy Rose Clinic? Are they good?
Thank you!
Georgia Harding says
Hi Mariana. My own wonderful Naturopath that helped me with my own Graves treatment plan is in Perth. Chevonne Clasen at Remede in Mosman Park. She is on maternity leave at the moment but has many great practitioners in her practice. G x
Mandy says
Hi Georgia, I’ve just found your site (and quickly subscribed) and what a breath of fresh air it has been to me to read of your determination and resolve to find a natural treatment for an over active thyroid. I’ve started my own journey to do as many natural treatments as possible to avoid the pharmacological route that has been set out for me. I believe that – “I am fearfully and wonderfully made”, and therefore my body naturally wants to be well. I am addressing my stress levels and out of control diet….(vegetarian, but with a sugar and wheat addiction)….slowly….we can’t rush a lifetime of bad habits and a lifetime of constantly being in “flight mode”. I’m seeing a lovely naturopath who is in leasion with my equally lovely GP. Between them they want this to be resolved as naturally as possible.
I started out with the easiest part, diet WILL be sorted very soon. I’ve been putting a castor oil poultice around my neck for well over a month. Castor oil is “the digger”. It digs into the toxins. I can attest to the fact that something is happening to the benign growth on my thyroid. I started massaging in the residue oil each morning and I woke up one day to find I had “broken out”. Hard lumps all over my throat and neck area. It’s been approx 2 weeks and none of them have formed heads – even after two days of potato poulticing. (Potato draws) Half of them have subsided and the other half are still well and truly just hard lumps. My naturopath says my body will deal with them for me. They haven’t been sore or itchy at all.
Hehee! Had to laugh, my adult children thought it was “gross”, I was ecstatic….and my husband just doesn’t understand…..I am taking medicinal mushrooms, getting my gut in order, having colonics and infrared sauna’s, working out and starting to remember what it’s like to have energy – that’s ancient history – but definitely happening every now and then.
I also had to laugh…..my GP said given my diagnosis…..I should be as skinny as a rake…..ppppfffttt! My body didn’t get THAT memo!
I know once I can quit the sugar, dairy and wheat (gluten) then I should have a positive review for the endocrinologist in July. And maybe some coverted weight loss?
The stress factor is always an issue. My Mum has Alzheimer’s and even though now in a wonderful Nursing Home, it still takes its toll….and there are the other life long stressors that majorly impact my day to day living. My faith has kept my head above water, as does a sense of humour and 4 amazing children and now five grandchildren. So blessed!
Oh my….just thinking about the path ahead….that’ll mean I will be a gluten free and sugar free vegan!
Never ever thought that would happen…..just goes to show…..”never say never”!
Yup! I can ramble…..
Thank you for sharing your inspirational journey. We all have one and I’m feeling very positive and pro-active about mine.
??
Georgia Harding says
Hi Mandy, thanks for sharing your own journey too. Yes stress is inextricably linked to the development of any auto immune disease, especially thyroid disease – I’m so glad you’ve identified that. All the very best, I’m always so thrilled to hear your resolve and proactive approach. Well done for taking control of your health. G x
Dr. Wayne Gard says
Great story Georgia, you didn’t give up for many challenges that you been through. When you look back 8 years ago, you are much better now. You doing well, you have a nice and great family, I truly believe family is very important.
Georgia Harding says
Yes my family always motivates me
Kate says
Hi Georgia,
Thank you for your story! Would you say the removal of Gluten and Dairy from the diet is absolutely necessary to heal the thyroid? I have just been diagnosed with Hypothyroidisn and as a Mum with two little ones (and running off not as much sleep as I’d like due to breastfeeding and a wakeful baby!) I believe a huge part is lifestyle and stress. It’s just a little daunting dealing with food and lifestyle (and everything else) with a young family!
Love your site and all the wonderful information you share.
Thank you 🙂
Georgia Harding says
Hi Kate, I really believe it’s really important to have professional support, especially when you already have so much on your plate. Thyroid disease is tough to deal with and yes, in every case I’ve seen stress has played a huge role. Removing gluten and dairy is often but not always advisable. I personally moderated both but didn’t totally eliminate (I try to have as much variety as possible). All the very best Kate, G x
Tara says
Hi Georgia
Thanks for sharing such an inspiring story. I have just been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, most likely Graves. I am really determined to try natural methods first but of course my Endocrinologist whilst open to natural medicine does not want me to try this alone as the my blood levels are quite high. I feel like natural methods will work better and be more successful if I don’t jump in the medication roller coaster at all (which I am so reluctant to do) and wondering if you think this would be true?
Also I have a lovely naturopath who I trust but wondering if it would also be beneficial to see one that ‘specialises’ in thyroid health? I am in the Blue Mountains but can travel to Sydney if you can recommend anyone.
Many thanks in advance 🙂
Georgia Harding says
So sorry for the delay responding Tara. I’m currently on holiday in Sri Lanka and the past two weeks I’ve been staying in a small town where I haven’t been able to get a good enough wifi connection to log into my site to respond to comments.
I feel for you – Graves is such a challenging condition. I can only speak based on my own personal experience with treating Graves, which as you’ve read worked out very well for me. I too had very high blood levels and my treatment wasn’t a quick fix, but with each blood test, they trended in the right direction until, finally my TSH registered and normalised. The rest they say is history.
Working with a skilled Naturopath is very important (as is finding your best way to manage stress) – perhaps speak with your Naturopath as you trust her. He/she will understand the importance of having an effective treatment plan and be able to gauge if she feels able to help you. I do know a few practitioners in Sydney (but no one that I know of specifically specialising in Graves). Email me if you do decide to go with a new practitioner and I can send you contact details so you can enquire with them.
All the very best, G x
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alis says
SO grateful I found your site! I’m currently in Australia on the working holiday visa from the UK. I’ve suffered with CFS for 8 years and more and more symptoms, so just really want to find the answers now. I’ve recently found out I have hyperthyroidism (although weirdly my antibodies for graves came back negative?) I’m seeing an endocrinologist on friday but I know already that they’re going to say medicine is best! I’m going to try to see the naturopath that you saw!
how long did it take before you felt like you were improving?
Which tests do you recommend definitely having?
Do you see a naturopath in the UK? I’m wondering if I need to go back home to the UK to get better.
<3 <3
Thanks!!!
Georgia Harding says
Hi Alis. Sorry for the delayed response, I’ve been on holidays. I feel for you, nothing worse than not feeling at your best. So it took me a full year of dedication to my healing (supplementation but also meditation, adressing some emotional baggage, managing my stress levels closely) to fully remit. I then waited 8 months, weaning myself off herbs contraindicated in pregnancy before conceiving my son (i wanted to make sure I could function of them before conceiving).
My Naturopath is actually in Perth, West Australia (not the UK). Whoever you get to help you, you are within your rights to question them about their experience in treating hyperthyroidism. I initially tested negative to antibodies, then later +ive. All the very best, it’s a tough journey, but in my case, one I learned a lot from. Georgia x
Sheenie says
Wow, thank you for sharing your story- it really resonates with me and I am sure many other super mums out there too! Staying well through pregnancy and when you have a newborn is so important, and it doesn’t take much to ‘tip the scales’.
Georgia Harding says
Your welcome, yes, it’s so tough to get the balance right (but so important) G x
Nilima says
Hi Georgia
I’m so grateful to God that I bumped into your blog.
I’ve recently been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. I saw an endocrinologist a few days ago but she scared me when more, by saying that if meds don’t work, surgery is our next option. I am quite stressed and it doesn’t help.
Do you know any good naturopaths here in Sydney who has experience in treating hyperthyroidism/graves.
Please continue your beautiful work.
Thank you so much for writing this blog.
❤❤❤
Nilu
Georgia Harding says
Hi Nilima, so glad to help. I have been in contact with a friend (my own Naturopath) who is a mentor and very well connected in Sydney and she has said Leah Hectman or Melanie Koeman are both very experienced practitioners. I feel for you, it’s a rotten condition when you are in the midst of it. All the very best G x
jan says
HI Georgia I hope you aren’t getting annoyed that there are ppl STILL commenting on this old post!
I have been hyperthyroid twice now, not autoimmune related and because I go ‘back to normal’ levels within a few months, Im finding DRs arent really giving me the time of day to work out why this keeps happening to me. Because I don’t need treatment in the long run at least (I avoid any medication anyway and prefer to treat things naturally). The first time was after my 3rd child, the second time was another stressful relationship event. So what I find is I have a stressful situation I get all the debilitating hyperthyroid symptoms which you know all about.. insomnia, racing heart, sleeping hot, anxious, irritable, etc, and am just left to deal with it until it go aways and returns again which can be months. I also have adrenal fatigue although Im not aware if this can be a cause.
Do you have any tips on how I can tackle this? Or how to better care for myself when something gets triggered?
Ive seen integrated GP, naturopath, endocrine specialist (they said the same things to me as they did you!) etc but I haven’t got much help.
The symptoms are just awful and I dont want to have to deal with it forever.
Thanks for reading,
Georgia Harding says
It’s no problem at all Jan.
I find that 100% of autoimmune disease have stress/ nervous system disorder as an underlying cause. Adrenal fatigue absolutely impacts on endocrine function too. From what you’ve said, stress management is absolutely your priority. For me this was a massive part of my treatment and recovery. You have to prioritise rest and self care.
Wishing you all the very best, it’s a terrible condition to deal with. Look after YOU! G x
Libby says
I’d love to know more about how you got back to normal! I was diagnosed with Graves 3 years ago, on meds for 18 months then cleared, conceived our daughter 6 months later and am now 3 months postpartum and my graves has reared its ugly head again! I am absolutely devastated! If I go back on meds I can’t continue breastfeeding and I am definitely not ready to stop! (Sam as you I have an angel babe who sleeps and feeds with ease – looking forward to the ‘energetic years’).
Any advice would be ever so greatly appreciated. XX
Libby says
If you could also please recommend a Sydney based naturopath specialising in graves that would be amazing!
Georgia Harding says
Hi Libby,
I really feel for you, it’s such a tough condition to navigate. My daughter was 2 and I was still breastfeeding when I was diagnosed. I can remember the devastation at the thought of weaning her too.
My recovery was a process that pivoted between various herbs and supplements. The thing is with a holistic approach is that every individual is very different – for me a lot of the initial focus was supporting my nervous system. I also meditated a lot and worked with a reiki practitioner.
I haven’t had personal dealings with these practitioners, but the Naturopath that I worked with (in Perth) one of my best friends, and a very connected practitioners has recommended Leah Hectman and Melanie Koeman as two reputable practitioners in sydney. Perhaps contact them and ask about their exp with Graves. All the very very best G x
Kero says
Hi Georgia, your post reminded me so much of myself having hyperactive thyroid when I returned to work after I had my first baby. I am a nurse, living on the GC as well. I resonate so much the mentality of trying to be a supermom, breastfeeding, doing shifts, moving house, looking after the household, with no family in the country. Until one day, I had this horrendous palpitation, nausea, vomit and collapsing on the ward at work. Work mates had been commenting how skinny I look, and actually a bit concern with the weight loss (think about clothes looking loose in size 6!!) It took me not one, but two hospital trip to convince myself I need to stay overnight and rest, because you know “I’m the nurse, I know what to do”, which was really silly. Luckily, I was able to recovered from the illness and the hyperthyroidism was only short-term. But this taught/forced me to slow down and ask for help if needed.
Fast forward 3 years later today, I have my second child who is 3 months now. I’m a lot more relax, take my time to heal my body and enjoy raising this baby and my toddler. Thank you so much amazing website, while on mat leave, I don’t think I have any excuse not to follow a few of your recipe to feed my family.
Georgia Harding says
Hey Kero,
So glad you are well now and most importantly, have listened to your body and found a new way of being. It’s sometimes hard to learn the lessons but no one benefits from you being exhausted and sick! Enjoy your new bub, they grow up soooooo fast! G x
divya says
the above information about Thyroid is very useful. people suffering from thyroid can also use this information. my mother had also gone through hyperthyroidism but from starting to end she took an Ayurvedic medicine of Jain’s cow urine and it is really herbal therapy with no side effects. so it was great that my mother didn’t go to any doctor or something, she had gone in the right way.
Sofia Ribeiro says
Hello, I have been diagnosed with graves disease for 6 months after having my first child. Started with medication and 3 months ago decided i was going to cure this naturally. I would like to know how many months til your TSH normalized? Mine is still below 0,008 and i thought it would be better by now. I do feel much better in terms of my symptons. I wanted to have a second child but can’t seem to get pregnant due to my thyroid and so really want to normalize my values.
Georgia Harding says
Hi Sofia, it took me the better part of a year to normalise my thyroid. It was very gradual, my T3 and T4 normalised first and my TSH didn’t normalise until towards the 12 month mark. I also wanted to get pregnant but I didn’t try to conceive until a good three months after I tested within range. I’m glad you’re feeling better, it is worth being patient, it’s a pretty serious condition that needs time to correct. All the best G x
Skye says
I have just been diagnosed with Graves Disease and I too believe in the body’s!ability to heal. Of course, the endocrinologist prescribed some meds which has hair loss and liver damage listed as side effects. I don’t do drugs…not even paracetamol so taking these meds doesn’t feel right. I have always been a healthy person but stress is a huge factor in my career that I love as well.
Thank you for sharing your story. I’m going dissolve this imbalance my way.
Georgia Harding says
All the very best Skye, I’d really recommend getting support from your health care team G x
Gail says
I have just had the doctor advise me I have overactive thyroid which a year ago was not to be seen in my readings – I was all good in that area. I have had HUGE stresses for over 15years and I asked could this be the trigger as all my other bloods etc have come back fine. I work all the time and never anytime to relax and smell the roses. I am sure this is stress related and feel that if I take some time out for myself and eat a bit better this will subside. What would your opinion be? As I am very anti drugs and don’t take pannadol – I do like my Cappuccino’s (every day) and the occasional Bourbon to destress 🙂
Georgia Harding says
Gail, I just can’t offer you individual advice, but you paint the classic picture of many women diagnosed with hyperthyroid (stress, overworked etc). Managing my stress and addressing my lifestyle was a huge part of my own recovery (along with great supplements from my Naturopath to support my nervous and endocrine system). Whatever you decide to do, managing your stress/ work is critical for your longterm health G x
C says
Hey,
I have the same issue, and my doctor has prescribede lots of medication. And i feel worse as it as caused be Gain weight, more than i have ever been. Its not too much just 1 kg more but i feel anxious about it increasing evryday even when i workout 6 days a week.
I am really looking for naturopathy options so please share your plan if possible.
If you dont mind pls share your tsh levels too as i am confused about mine and my doctor doesn’t seem to forthcoming to explain me what exactly is happening. He just wants to give medication and bring my tsh level normal, where as i get anxious and depressed with the increase in weight.
Georgia Harding says
I worked with a Naturopath to develop a plan that suited MY body – the only way a holistic approach will bring results is if it is tailored to suit the person it’s treating. Plus my treatment plan changed and evolved as I did over the year it took to heal – so there was no one plan rather a series. A good naturopath will be able to support you best and develop a treatment plan to treat the underlying cause of your hyperthyroidism. All the best G x
Frances Williams says
Hi
Thanks for your great info.
I’ve been diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism in the last 7 months. I am trying to treat it naturally with diet and supplements from a Naturopath. My Endocrinologist wants me to have a biopsy on my thyroid as I have a hot and cold nodule. Should I have the biopsy?
Georgia Harding says
You’re welcome Frances. I’m sorry I’m not able to offer medical advice, your Naturopath/ Endocrinologist are best placed to as they have first hand knowledge of your specific case. All the very best G x
Frances Williams says
Hi Georgina,
I had the biopsy on my thyroid and nodules are benign.
Thanks again for your great site!
Georgia Harding says
Great news Frances, ?? G x
Catherine says
This gave me hope thank you! I have had CFS and hashimotos but most recently got covid in December and now have Graves/ hyperthyroidism. I’ve been put on beta blockers as my levels are so high and heart issues like yourself. Tomorrow I’ve an app with endocrinologist – everyone is telling me to take the drugs to normalize things and treat it behind the scenes. I was working with a functional practitioner but she said take the drugs too and then we can do stuff to figure it out. I’m 37 and want to have children in the next couple of years with my partner Greg. I feel overwhelmed atm to be honest and will see what the endo says tomorrow. Have you any advice of specialists to see that practice holistically and can help? Thank you so much!! Catherine collins
Georgia Harding says
I feel you Catherine – where are you based? My naturopath is Perth based (in West Australia) G x
Heather Daniels says
Hi Georgia,
I live in Wellington New Zealand. I have Graves disease. Carbimazole [the medication I am on] can interfere with white blood cells and if I get my thyroid nuked and become hypothyroid I have no thyroid so would love to find a naturopath or some such person
qualified in treatment of Graves disease.
Georgia Harding says
It’s certainly worth investigating Heather. I personally don’t know anyone that practices there sorry. All the very best G x
Stacey says
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Can you also share the herbal and other natural treatments that you used during that year to heal naturally. I am currently using Bugelweed, lemon balm, L-Carnitine, and trying to increase my vitamin D naturally as I am a bit low. I believe that I am hyperthyroid and am also currently on Propranolol to block the awful symptoms.
Georgia Harding says
You’re so welcome. The herbs and treatments I used varied a lot over the time it took for me to heal – Bugelweed, lemon balm, L-Carnitine were often part of my regime, but I worked closely with my naturopath to pivot when needed. There’s not one treatment protocol for Graves (or any health condition really) – treating the individual with a holistic approach is key. All the very best G x
Humaira says
Hi Georgia
I really came across your story for a reason today as I got another blood test to tell me my hyperthyroidism is getting worse. I came off medication 4 months ago in hope my positive mind would help heal.
Do you by any chance remember what kind of herbal medicines you took to help heal and if this has been a permanent fix for you? X
Stacey says
Can I ask how long you were on beta blockers? I am concerned about fallout from them creating a whole different problem that I will have to deal with. Diabetes runs in my family. Did you slowly wean, and if you don’t mind, which beta blocker were you on.
Thanks a bunch!!
Georgia Harding says
Stacey, I can’t remember which but it was only for a few weeks while the herbs kicked in G x
Steph Stanton says
Hi – I was inspired by your story. I was just diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and need direction regarding a natural treatment that works. I would love to talk with you about what worked for you. If you are open to a call please email me at [email protected]. Blessings, Steph
Georgia Harding says
Hi Steph, I’d really recommend finding a good naturopath to work with. I’m no longer in clinical practice sorry and what worked for me may not for you (holistic healthcare is very personalised). But a good practitioner will spend many hours refining a treatment to suit you best over the course of your treatment. G x
Sean Shipway says
Thanks I am in the same boat but unfortunate I got the hyperthyroidism and graves disease in its advanced stage and a very deadly stage. Been on betta blockers and that but soon is the big choices remove it or use radioactivity. Very grateful others know what I what I am going through 6 months after cancer removal.
Georgia Harding says
All the very best
Kath Reuben says
I have been a fan of your pastitsio which I came across a while back and made again last night. I loved it so much that I thought I’d take some time to look at the rest of your site before I came across your Graves story – especially poignant given I have just been diagnosed with Graeves and not wanting to go down the medicine route, have been wondering what my options are. I will be booking in with a naturopath soonest! Many thanks
Georgia Harding says
Ah meant to be Kath. Good luck on your journey and so pleased the Pastitsio is a winner G x
Monica Bennett says
HI
I’ve just been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism but it’s not an autoimmune condition as it’s caused by nodules and goitre. Even so I want to try a natural approach rather than take meds etc. I live in the UK so I wonder if you could give me the name of the female naturopath who helped you? I have already made radical changes to my diet (I’m following the Dr John McDoughall diet) and am seeing a Reiki practitioner who is wonderful. Your help would be invaluable. Many thanks.
Georgia Harding says
I’m in Australia, but the naturopath who supported me is Chevonne Clasen at Remede Wellness https://remede.com.au/ All the best G x
Paola says
Hi there,
I was diagnosed with graves when my som was 3. I realized i was very stressed and overwhelmed, been on medication since adjusting. 3 months ago it was stable but now i retested and is low again. The doctor switched me to the other pill that is supposely better for pregnancy. I have been trying anyways to conceive for the past months and nothing has happened. Its been 3 years for me. I did work with a holistic doctor but he doesnt test you on anything just recommended removing gluten and sugar. Just feel i was wasting money. I kept the diet but i sometimes cheat with sugar. Its been a long journey for me sometimes i think i will never be a mom again but i continue to have faith in God that i will and it will be a healthy baby. Any recommendations to supplements
Well Nourished Team says
Hi Paola, it’s super tricky healing the thyroid. It’s fairly normal from what I understand for the thyroid to swing high and low with pharmaceutical medications. It’s a shame you didn’t feel the holistic doctor helped? Is there another practitioner you could try? You’d certainly need more than dietary support to heal – I took a lot of different supplements (mostly herbs) at different times. Holistic healthcare is not a one size fits all system – so what worked for me, may not suit you at all (in fact it could be detrimental). Herbal medicine was a super important part of my treatment which in my case, involved supporting my thyroid, nervous and immune system (as my condition developed out of a post viral syndrome/ high stress levels). I’d really encourage you to seek individualised treatment with someone skilled in herbal medicine. There was no one supplement I took, but many and they changed monthly as my condition and health evolved. G x