Thyroid is one such gland in the body which aids the metabolism of our body and keeps this energy alive. But sometimes when it not functioning well this metabolism get badly affected. In India more than four crores are suffering from Thyroid disorders. Further women suffer more than men. One in eight women will develop thyroid problems during her life time. This gland is situated at lower part of your neck and resembles a butterfly.
Disorders of Thyroid gland can be Hypothyroidism or Hyperthroidism
Hypothlyroidism
Hypothyroidism means slow functioning of the gland leading due to insufficient production of thyroid hormone leading to slowing of metabolism of the body. Commonly one starts feeling sluggish in activities without any obvious reason. Other symptoms are
1. Weight gain even though you are not eating more food
2. Constipation
3. Dry and pale skin
4. Thinning of hair
5. Slow heart rate
6. Hoarse voice Heavy bleeding during periods
7. Felling abnormally cold
Hypothyroidism can cause increase in bad cholesterol, increasing risk of heart disease. Treatment includes external supplements of thyroid hormone as prescribed by doctor.
Hperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism means overactive thyroid gland which produces excess amount of thyroid hormone causing metabolism to speed up.
Symptoms include
1. Eating more than usual yet losing weight
2. Palpitations
3. Feeling nervous or irritable
4. Trembling of hands
5. Increased sweating
6. Feeling hot abnormally
7. Muscle weakness
8. Diarrhea
9. Fewer and lighter menstrual periods than normal
10. Bulging of eyes
Hyperthyroidism increases the risk of osteoporosis significantly. Treatment includes anti thyroid medicines, certain medicine to slow down heart rate and sometimes surgical removal of thyroid.
Both the conditions are medically treatable. Both conditions can land into crisis if not treated timely
Tips to prevent malfunctioning of thyroid.
Here are some supplements that are helpful for keeping thyroid activity in control and those that are better avoided
Iodine
Insufficient iodine can lead to hypothyroidism. Common sources of iodine are iodised salts, seafood, some breads and grains Ideal requirement of Iodine is 150 mcg per day for young adult. It is higher for pregnant women
Selnium
It plays a crucial role in thyroid metabolism . Daily requirement is 55 mg. in non-pregnant adults. Some sources are grain, bread, meat eggs and fish
Zinc copper magnesium.
These minerals along with selenium can cause changes in thyroid hormone level. Some sources are fruits/ whole grains and poultry.
Gotrogens.
Gotrogens can cause goiter or enlarged thyroid gland an should be consumed in moderation. It includes cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cabbage, kale, turnips, cauliflower as well as soy products like tofu, soy milk, soy sauce etc
Fluoride
Excess fluoride exposure can exacerbate hypothyroidism, It is present in tea , processed foods sprayed with fluoride containing pesticides