Fighting off Hypothyroidism

Thyroid disorders are very common in the women now-a-days, girls as young as 16 years of age are also facing the thyroid issues. Hormones produced by the thyroid gland control the body’s metabolism, which is the process by which the body uses energy. Low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism) can cause weight gain, while unexpected weight loss can signal that thyroid hormones are produced in excess (hyperthyroidism). Hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism.

Following are few symptoms of hypothyroidism: Changes in mood and energy, hair loss, constipation, changes in menstrual cycle, dry skin, brittle nails, tingling and numbness in the hands or fingers.

Untreated hypothyroidism can raise cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Treatment for hypothyroidism usually involves taking thyroid hormones in pill form, generally throughout the life.

Following proper diet and nutrition can ensure that the symptoms remain to the minimal level.

Here are the foods which you need to avoid or consume in less quantity when facing hypothyroidism:

• Soy, as the ingredient in soy interferes with the body’s ability to use thyroid hormone
• Vegetables like Cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli (cruciferous vegetables) as they can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones
• Gluten, as it may hamper the absorption of thyroid hormone replacement medication
• Fatty foods, as fats have been found to disrupt the body’s ability to absorb thyroid hormone replacement medicine. It is recommended that you cut all fried foods, mayonnaise, margarine and fatty cuts of meat
• Sugary foods, as the body’s metabolism is already slowed down so it is better to avoid excess calories coming from sugary foods
• Processed foods, as they tend to have lot of sodium which adds up to the risk of high blood pressure
• Excess fibre, getting enough fibre is essential but excess fibre can interfere with absorption of medication
• Coffee and alcohol also need to be avoided.

So what should you eat?

1. Fish, olives, flax seeds and walnuts with high omega 3 fatty acids are very much essential
2. Brazil nuts and hazel nuts which are high in selenium
3. Whole grains and beans for sustained source of energy
4. Dairy products for calcium and vitamin D
5. Iodine fortified salt
6. Fresh fruits and vegetables, specifically foods such as blueberries, cherries, sweet potatoes, and green peppers which are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that are known to lower risk for heart disease

Eat right and be fit !!