🔄 5 Simple Things You Can Do to Avoid Spiking Your TSH (and 5 That Help Lower It Naturally)
By A.L. Childers, The Hypothyroidism Chick
If you have hypothyroidism like I do, then you already know the struggle of chasing “normal” lab results while just trying to feel human again.
Your TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is kind of like that overbearing friend who means well but doesn’t know when to back off. When your thyroid slows down, TSH rises as your pituitary gland tries to push your thyroid to do more—but too much TSH can leave you bloated, foggy, cold, depressed, constipated, and just plain worn out.
Over the years (and many labs later), I’ve learned a few tricks that actually help keep TSH in check—naturally, gently, and without losing my mind.
🚫 5 Things That Might Be Spiking Your TSH Without You Realizing
1. Taking Your Meds with Food or Coffee
Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally with water only. Food, especially coffee or calcium-rich meals, can block absorption and make your TSH climb.
2. Skipping Doses or Taking It at Different Times
Consistency is key. Your thyroid is sensitive to routine. Taking your meds at the same time every day helps keep your hormone levels steady.
3. Ignoring Stress and Cortisol Levels
Chronic stress increases cortisol, which messes with your thyroid and can cause TSH to rise. Unchecked stress is like a silent saboteur of your progress.
4. Consuming Too Much Soy or Gluten (Especially If You’re Sensitive)
These can interfere with thyroid function in people who are sensitive. Some studies suggest that gluten, especially in those with autoimmune thyroid disease, may cause inflammation that pushes TSH higher.
5. Overdoing Cruciferous Veggies Raw
Yes, broccoli is great—but raw cruciferous vegetables in large amounts may inhibit thyroid function, especially in those with iodine deficiency.
🌿 5 Natural Ways to Gently Lower Your TSH
1. Support Your Adrenals
Herbs like ashwagandha, holy basil, and rhodiola can help balance stress and cortisol, which in turn supports better thyroid regulation.
2. Prioritize Selenium and Zinc
These minerals are thyroid superstars. Selenium helps convert T4 into T3, the active thyroid hormone. Brazil nuts (just 1–2 a day) are rich in selenium. Zinc supports TSH regulation and immune health.
3. Get Consistent, Gentle Exercise
Walking, stretching, or yoga boosts circulation, mood, and metabolism without overtaxing the thyroid. Overexercising can backfire and increase cortisol.
4. Improve Gut Health
A healthy gut = better hormone conversion. Incorporate probiotics, fermented foods (like sauerkraut or kefir), and avoid foods that bloat or inflame.
5. Get Real Sleep
Your thyroid resets during sleep. Poor or inconsistent sleep raises inflammation and cortisol—both of which can drive your TSH up. Aim for 7–9 hours of deep, restorative snoozing.
💬 Final Thoughts from The Hypothyroidism Chick
Managing hypothyroidism isn’t just about a pill. It’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your whole system, including your nervous system, gut, hormones, and soul.
I’ve learned through trial, error, and a lot of journaling that small changes really do add up. So be gentle with yourself, take one step at a time, and remember—you are not alone on this journey.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication, supplements, or lifestyle. What worked for me might not be perfect for you—your body deserves personalized care.
🖋 About the Author:
A.L. Childers, affectionately known as TheHypothyroidismChick.com , is a wellness writer and survivor of both Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. After years of frustration, misdiagnoses, and feeling like a walking zombie, she put her condition into remission through natural methods, lifestyle changes, and relentless research. She’s now the author of over 200 books and is on a mission to help others reclaim their energy, self-worth, and health—one hormone at a time.
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