Thyroid ! An Organ to Care For

As we all know our body is a complex system consisting of many organs one of which is Thyroid. Each of the organs perform a unique function. The interconnection of the organs makeups the organ system which is also known as endocrine system. The organs our classified into secretary and non-secretary. Glands are those organs which are secretary in nature. Each gland produce a unique hormone. A hormone is a chemical compound which performs a specified function. These hormones travel through the body using blood as a carrier. These hormones are responsible for regulating our metabolism. Metabolism is the process in which our body breakdown the food that you eat and derive energy from the breakdown of food. Among these glands there is one very essential gland present known as Thyroid. It is a butterfly shaped gland located in the front part of our neck. When you look at it, it consist of two lobes and is about 2 inches.

What is hypothyroidism?

In some individuals due to certain reason it starts malfunctioning. The malfunctioning is can be of 2 type, it can either stop producing the thyroid hormone or it may produce very large amount of the hormone.

When you consider the first case where the production of Thyroid hormone is reduced, the situation is know as Hypothyroidism. In the second case when thyroid produce excessive thyroid hormone it is known as hyperthyroidism.

In hypothyroidism your metabolism rate slows down and you feel fatigued. Although many medications can treat hypothyroidism but proper nutrition can restore the default functioning.

Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid organ malfunction and results in a reduced amount of thyroid hormone. Several health problems arise due to hypothyroidism. The health problems main include obesity, joint pain, heart disease and in some rare cases infertility.

The relation between my diet and my hypothyroidism

Your nutrition Play a vital role. Your nutrition can help in avoiding the escalation of your hypothyroidism. There is a direct linkage between Nutrition and amount of Thyroid produced.

There is a list of food that you may add in your diet. For example, foods containing high quantity of iodine, selenium and zinc may help your thyroid functioning. On the other hand, there are certain foods that you should avoid which can worsen you are symptoms of hypothyroidism. This foods work as a catalyst and our capable of escalating the situation.

Nutrients that Thyroid friendly:

The major nutrients r iodine, selenium and zinc. These nutrients will help you maintain a healthy thyroid hormone level in your blood stream.

Iodine:

Your body use iodine as a source for Thyroid production. As your body is not capable to synthesizing iodine you should add it in your diet. Cheese, milk, iodize salt, Salt water fish, sewed, whole eggs consist of iodine.

Selenium:

It is a micronutrient which activates thyroid hormone so that it can become usable by our body. When you include selenium in your diet. All the inactive thyroid present in your body is being converted to its active form by selenium. You selection for high selenium food must include Brazil nuts, tuna, BF, chicken, eggs, shrimp, brown rice and oatmeal.

Zinc:

Zinc play a vital role in overall functioning of thyroid hormone. It can also help in regulating TSH. Pork, chicken, yogurt, pumpkin seeds, legumes, crabs and oysters should be your preferred zinc content

Foods that I should be avoiding: For a healthy Thyroid !

There are certain nutrients and foods that can interfere with the medication of hypothyroidism. Individuals suffering from hypothyroidism must avoid these foods.

• Goitrogens: These are the compounds that interfere in the overall cycle of thyroid production as well as it’s Functioning. There are several vegetables which contain goitrogen compounds. If taken in moderation it may benefit the overall health. But when consumed in mass it may create problems related to thyroid functioning. Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, Russian kale, and cabbage contains goitrogens. If cooked properly these goitrogen may become inactive.
• SOY: There are several researches and evidences that show the potential interference of soy in the production of thyroid hormone. Soy milk, soya sauce, tofu, miso and other soy products RA great source of soy.
• Gluten: A very common scenario with hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s disease. and in 90% of cases patients suffering from hypothyroidism may suffer from Hashimoto’s disease as well as celiac disease. The research is show that whether an individual is suffering from celiac disease or not, eliminating gluten from diet may prove beneficial for thyroid functioning.
• Processed foods: Person suffering from hypothyroidism must exclude processed foods from his or her diet. To detect heavily processed food you should look for high added sugar content. Such foods include hot dogs, cookies, cakes, soda and donut.

Medications that interfere with your Thyroid treatment?

You should take your thyroid medication on empty stomach. For an instance if you are taking iron rich or calcium rich foods, avoid taking your medication before 4 hours.

Some common medicines that may interfere with your thyroid medication includes antacids, calcium supplements, iron supplements, highly iodised food, fiber supplement, soya-based protein supplement.

These nutrition regarding tips will not cure your hypothyroidism but will definitely help you with maintaining your optimal thyroid hormone level. Your medication should go alongside with your nutritious diet. In any case if you are uncomfortable reach out to your healthcare provider.