Hypothyroidism: Symptoms, Causes and Diet to Be Followed

Hypothyroidism, (hypo: lack and thyroidism: thyroid hormone) as the name itself signifies lack of thyroid hormones is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. This gland is a small, butterfly like organ which is situated at the base of the neck. This organ plays a major role in producing hormones which is useful in regulating the metabolism, growth and repair. However, people suffering from hypothyroidism may experience weight gain, hair loss, feeling cold and lots more.

Hypothyroidism in Details

When the hormone level is low, thyroid gland receives a signal called TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) from the pituitary gland and it starts releasing the thyroid hormones into the blood stream. But, when there is enough amount of TSH, the thyroid gland doesn’t produce hormones which causes primary hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

In adults

Basically, the symptoms of hypothyroidism occurs very slowly. Women with age group more than 60 and men who are aging must look into the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Weight Gain
• Depression
• Dry skin
• Sensitive to cold temperatures
• Thinning hair
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty in concentrating
• Higher cholesterol levels
• Muscle weakness
• Constipation
• Pain or swelling in joints

In Infants

Though, hypothyroidism is most common in middle aged and older women, but, is also common in infants who are either born without a thyroid gland or the gland that doesn’t function properly. Some of the symptoms may include:

• Frequent choking
• Jaundice
• Constipation
• Puffy face

In Children and teens

Symptoms are as similar as in adults

• Delayed puberty
• Short stature or poor growth
• Weight gain
• Muscle cramps
• Dry hair and skin
• Delayed mental development
• In girls increased menstrual flow

Causes of Hypothyroidism

Though anyone can develop hypothyroidism, but, women with more than 60 years of age are on higher risk. Other risk factors include:

• Having autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis
• With a family history of thyroid disease
• Having undergone thyroid surgery
• Taking medication that affects thyroid
• Any exposure to radiation to neck or upper chest

Important Nutrients Intake During Hypothyroidism

Major nutrients that are extremely beneficial for maintaining the thyroid health are:

• Iodine: Iodine is an essential element to make thyroid hormones. People having deficiency of iodine are at higher risk of getting hypothyroidism. One must have intake of iodine table salt in meals as well as must consume iodine rich foods like fish, dairy, eggs and seeweeds.
• Selenium: It plays an important role in activating the thyroid hormones to be used by the body. Some of the selenium rich diets are legumes, eggs, tuna, sardines and Brazil nuts.
• Zinc: Like selenium, zinc also has the same role in activating thyroid hormones. Some of the zinc rich diets are beef, chicken, oysters and shellfish.

Foods to be eaten

• Eggs: Whole eggs containing both egg white and yolk.
• Meats: Lamb, beef, chicken
• Fish: All types of seafood including tuna, shrimp, halibut, salmon etc.
• Vegetables: All types of green leafy vegetables
• Fruits: All types of fruits including bananas, oranges, berries, tomotaoes and lots more
• Gluten free grains and seeds: Chia seeds. Buckwheat, flaxseeds, rice
• Dairy: milk, cheese, yoghurt etc
• Beverages: Water and other non-caffeinated drinks

Nutrients to be Avoided

Some of the nutrients that are harmful during hypothyroidism are:

• Goitrogens: Goitrogens are the compounds that restricts the normal functioning of thyroid glands. Some of the food that include goitrogens are soy foods like tofu, tempeh etc, cabbage, broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, peaches, strawberries, millets, peanuts, pine nuts etc.
• Gluten: Gluten rich diet is a big ‘NO’ to hypothyroid people. It is found in barley, rye and wheat.

Foods to be avoided

• Millets: All types
• Highly processed foods: Cakes, cookies etc
• Supplements: Iodine as well as selenium supplements
• Foods containing gluten: cereals, bread, pasta, beer
• Soy foods: Tempeh, tofu, beans, soy milk etc

Major tips for maintaining healthy weight

• Get ample amount of rest: Ensure to have 7 to 8 hrs of proper sleep during night time. Sleeping less than this will cause fat gain.
• Practice mindful eating: Pay attention on what you eat. Have better relationships with food.
• Practise yoga or meditation: Yoga and meditation can help to de stress as well as to improve the overall health condition.
• Consume low to moderate amount of carb diet: Eating low to moderate amount of carb diets is highly effective in maintaining proper weight.