Thyroid
These hormones control the body's metabolism, i.e. how the body uses energy, regulate body temperature and help regulate heart rate. Deficiency or overproduction of thyroid hormone can cause a variety of problems in the body, such as hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormone) and hyperthyroidism (excess secretion of thyroid hormone).
What are the problems with thyroid?
Dry skin and hair loss: Lack of thyroid hormones slows down the body's metabolism, which affects the normal cell regeneration process of skin and hair. As a result, the skin becomes dry, flaky, and thin, which can sometimes cause problems like flaking. Similarly, the rate of hair growth also slows down, and the hair starts thinning. Hair color can become dull and the risk of hair breakage increases due to increased dryness.
Cold intolerance: Thyroid hormones play an important role in body metabolism and temperature regulation. When thyroid hormone is deficient, metabolism slows down and the body is unable to produce enough heat. As a result, the body cannot adapt to the cold weather and starts feeling unusually cold. Symptoms can include chills even in hot weather, cold hands and feet, and shivering in cold weather. Cold intolerance interferes with patients' daily life and increases physical discomfort.
Memory loss: One of the symptoms of hypothyroidism is memory problems or dementia. Lack of thyroid hormone reduces the function of nerve cells in the brain, thereby reducing brain function. As a result, patients often experience forgetfulness, lack of attention, and problems storing or retrieving information. Problems such as not being able to remember daily tasks or finding the right words when speaking can also occur. Memory problems negatively affect a patient's self-confidence and ability to work and increase stress.
Constipation: Lack of thyroid hormone slows down the body's metabolism, which affects the function of the abdominal muscles. This slows down the digestion process and causes food to move slowly through the intestines. This slow bowel movement makes stool hard and dry, leading to constipation.
Menstrual cycle problems: One of the most important symptoms of hypothyroidism is menstrual cycle problems. Lack of thyroid hormone affects the overall balance of hormones in the body, which directly affects female fertility. This can cause the menstrual cycle to become irregular and the menstrual cycle can become heavy or heavy, which is called menorrhagia. Sometimes the frequency of menstruation may decrease or menstruation may occur irregularly, which is known as oligomenorrhea.
Decreased heart rate: Thyroid hormones play an important role in regulating the body's metabolic rate as well as heart function. A lack of thyroid hormone slows down the contraction and expansion of the heart muscle, resulting in a slower than normal heart rate. Patients with this condition may suffer from weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath and feelings of fatigue. A decrease in heart rate also decreases blood flow, which can negatively affect the functioning of the brain and other vital organs.
Swelling of the face, legs, and hands: A lack of thyroid hormones slows down the body's metabolism, which increases the tendency to retain water in various cells and tissues of the body. As a result, puffiness may appear in the face especially around the eyes, ankles and fingers. These swollen areas are often tender and can cause pitting to the touch, known as “pitting edema”.
What is
good for thyroid?
Certain foods may be beneficial in controlling thyroid problems and maintaining proper functioning of the thyroid gland. These foods can be helpful in both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism conditions. However, certain food recommendations may vary depending on the type of thyroid problem and individual health. In general, some foods that are beneficial for the thyroid are:
Foods
rich in iodine: Iodine
is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency can
cause hypothyroidism. Therefore, seafood, seaweed, iodized salt, and dairy
products can serve as excellent sources of iodine.
Foods
rich in selenium: Selenium
helps maintain the function of thyroid hormones and protects the cells of the
thyroid gland. Nuts, fish, eggs, and poultry are rich sources of selenium.
Foods
rich in zinc: Zinc
helps in the production and conversion of thyroid hormones. Red meat, poultry,
whole grains, nuts, and seeds are good sources of zinc.
Foods
rich in vitamin D: Vitamin
D improves thyroid hormone function and reduces the risk of autoimmune thyroid
problems. Seafood, egg yolks, and sunlight are good sources of vitamin D.
Foods
rich in fiber: Foods
rich in fiber, such as green vegetables, fruits, grains, and legumes, improve
digestion and help reduce constipation in hypothyroidism.
Foods
rich in antioxidants: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, spinach, tomatoes, and
broccoli, reduce damage to body cells and protect the thyroid gland.
Healthy
Fats: Healthy fats
found in olive oil, almond oil, and avocados help maintain good thyroid health.
