Hypothyroidism is more common in India than Hyperthyroidism. 1 in 10 people suffers from it.
In the past, iodine deficiency was the main reason, but in past decades India has doubled its production of iodine. But still, there is iodine deficiency, which may be due to poverty and the inability to assess the sound quality of salt.
What is Hypothyroidism?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland situated in the neck. When this thyroid gland is underactive and produces fewer amounts of thyroid hormone, a condition is known as hypothyroidism.
Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Puffy face
- Hoarseness of voice
- Thinning hair
- Muscle aches
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Enlarged thyroid gland
- Impaired memory
Diagnosis
Your Physician may advise you to do a blood investigation for thyroid profile to detect hypothyroidism.
Treatment
Oral medication is the treatment for hypothyroidism.
Diet for Hypothyroidism
Along with medication, diet is essential in controlling any disease condition.
Food to include
- Iodine – Our body doesn’t produce iodine. But to control the thyroid hormone, you need to outsource it.
Iodised salt, seawater, fish, cheese, milk and eggs are good sources of Iodine.
- Zinc – Zinc benefits with a low level of the thyroid.
Yoghurt, pumpkin seeds, crabs and chicken are loaded with zinc.
- Selenium – Selenium is a micronutrient that helps produce the thyroid.
Oats, brown rice, chicken and shrimp help to fulfil your daily requirement of selenium.
Food to avoid
Some food can alter thyroid function, while some may interfere with thyroid medication.
The food you can avoid if you have hypothyroid
- Soy – Food containing soy like soy milk, soy sauce and tofu can hamper the production of thyroid. So, it’s better to avoid it as much as possible.
- Goitrogens – Goitrogens, when consumed in excess, can affect thyroid function.
Green cruciferous vegetables mostly contain goitrogens, for example, cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage.
- Processed food – Avoid processed and sugary food like carbohydrates drinks, cake, donuts and fast food.
Conclusion
- The thyroid can be controlled with traditional medicine, proper dietary habits and exercise.
- Always remember to take thyroid medication on an empty stomach.
- Thyroid medication takes 30-60 minutes to get absorbed, so avoid consuming anything for at least 30 minutes.
- And as always, consult your physician before starting any new regimen.