Self-Care Tips for Managing Hypothyroid Disease
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, below the Adam’s apple, and in front of your windpipe. Its function is to release hormones which control many important functions of your body related to metabolism. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone. The result is basically a slowing down of all of the body’s systems. This condition is extremely common, affecting as many as 10 million Americans.
Typical symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Feeling cold
- Weight gain
- Dry skin
- Forgetfulness
- Depression
- Constipation
There are many different causes of hypothyroidism. One common cause is an imbalance of your immune system, which causes autoimmune activity in the body. This often leads to what is known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This disease is characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland due to your immune system becoming confused, and attacking the healthy thyroid tissue. This causes the thyroid gland function to decrease.
Some other common causes are:
- Treatment for hyperthyroidism by medication, which may cause your thyroid function to go the opposite direction and become too low
- Thyroid surgery
- Various prescription medications
- Radiation treatment, such as that for cancer
- Certain types of viral infections
- Congenital disorders
- Damage or loss of function of the pituitary gland
Along with taking MerryHerb’s Hypo-ThyD Support herbal formula (http://www.merryherb.com/HypoThyroidSupport-p/f-hypothyroid.htm ), dietary changes can help significantly. Below are some tips for foods to eat and foods to avoid:
- Avoid soy, which can interfere with thyroid hormone production
- Iodine-rich foods, such as seaweed, can be beneficial, but may also be harmful if you eat too much. When in doubt, check with your doctor
- Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cabbage, can interfere with thyroid function. They are OK in moderation and better if cooked
- If you are taking prescription thyroid medication, some foods may interfere with the medications effectiveness, so it is best to limit foods such as iron and calcium supplements, and foods high in fiber
- Gluten may irritate the intestines, causing inhibition of absorption of thyroid medication in the intestines
- Caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol can also interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid medication
- Processed foods and sugar
Foods that are recommended for hypothyroidism:
- Antioxidant-rich foods, such as blueberries, purple or red grapes, red bell peppers – usually any fruit or vegetable that has a bright or deep color
- Foods rich in selenium – Brazil nuts are a good source
- Foods rich in the amino acid tyrosine – meats, dairy, and legumes
- Eggs and seafood
- Contrary to popular belief, eating foods high in fat and cholesterol may not be harmful, but may actually help the body to produce thyroid hormones. Examples of healthy fats include coconut oil, avocados, nuts and seeds
Self-care lifestyle habits for hypothyroidism include:
- Gentle, restorative exercise, such as walking, yoga or tai chi
- Get plenty of sleep: the best hours are between 11 pm and 7 am
- Do whatever you can to decrease stress; massage, acupuncture, and meditation are particular effective
