Interrelation Between Thyroid Disorder and Healthy Lifestyle

Thyroid is a gland located in the front of the neck. It plays a crucial role in regulating various metabolic processes in the body by producing thyroid hormones.
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are two common thyroid disorders. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This deficiency can lead to a slowdown in the body’s metabolic processes. Fatigue, rapid weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, and depression are some common symptoms of hypothyroidism. When the thyroid gland produces an excess amount of thyroid hormones, that condition is called hyperthyroidism. That can affect one’s basic metabolic rate. Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are rapid weight loss, rapid heartbeat, heat intolerance, sweating, nervousness, shiver and difficulty in sleeping. Both hypo and hyperthyroidism can effects on overall health and well-being if left untreated.
These are not curable disease but one can control these through health diet and lifestyle.

Beneficial nutrients and food source for thyroid patients

Iodine: Iodine is an essential nutrient for the synthesis of thyroid. It incites the metabolism. It helps maintaining hormonal balance.
Seafoods are the great source of iodine. It is also found in dairy products like milk and yogurt, eggs, and iodized salt.

Selenium: Selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting the thyroid gland from damage caused by oxidative stress.
Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, fish, shellfish and beef are some selenium rich food.

Zinc: Zinc plays a role in thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation. It improves immune function and helps protect the thyroid gland from damage caused by free radicals.
Oysters, beef, chicken, nuts, seeds contain a high amount of Zinc.

Iron: Iron is good for the production of thyroid hormones and it helps to maintain a healthy thyroid function. It also works on oxygen transport in the blood.

Lean meats, organ meat, beans, lentils, fortified cereals contain Iron.

Vitamin D3 & D4: Vitamin D plays a role in immune function, calcium absorption, and bone health. It may also have a role in regulating thyroid function and reducing the risk of autoimmune thyroid disorders.
Fatty fish, fortified dairy products, sunlight exposure are some sources of vitamin D.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation associated with thyroid disorders.
Fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, hemp seeds are omega-3 fatty acid rich food sources.

Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Beta-carotene): Antioxidants work to protectthe thyroid gland from oxidative stress and inflammation. They also support immune function and overall health.
Vitamin C rich food sources are citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes.
Vitamin E rich food sources are nuts, seeds, spinach, avocado etc.
Beta-carotene found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, apricots.
A variety of these nutrient-rich foods into the diet can improve thyroid function.

Restricted food for thyroid disorder

Goitrogenic Foods: Goitrogens are compounds found in certain foods that can interfere with thyroid function by inhibiting the uptake of iodine or interfering with thyroid hormone production.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower, as well as soy products like tofu and soy milk are some goitrogenic food sources.

Highly Processed Foods: Highly processed foods often contain high levels of refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives, which can contribute to inflammation, weight gain and exacerbate symptoms of thyroid disorders.

Excessive lodine Intake: Iodine is essential for thyroid health and hormone production but excessive intake can interrupt thyroid function and lead to hormonal imbalancement.

Soy Products: Soy contains compounds called isoflavones, which can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis and absorption. Soy products like soya chunk, tofu, soy milk and soy sauce.

Excessive Caffeine: High caffeine intake can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption incite thyroid disorders, especially in hyperthyroidism.

Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can affect thyroid health. Thyroid patients should maintain a moderate lifestyle. Should do some light exercise and keep the body weight controlled.