We often don’t spare much thought for the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of our throat that produces thyroid hormone.
But it does an all-important job of controlling a host of metabolic functions of the human body, including the heart rate, blood pressure, body weight, and temperature.
Plus, thyroid-related disorders are increasingly common — according to experts, 30% of women worldwide are likely to be affected.
Two of the most common dysfunctions of the thyroid gland are hypothyroidism (underactive gland) and hyperthyroidism (overactive gland).
Besides these two conditions, inflammation or enlargement and cancer of the gland are also common thyroid problems.
The signs of a dysfunctional thyroid include muscular weakness, respiratory distress, fatigue, menstrual issues in women, etc.
If left untreated, dysfunctional thyroid may raise cholesterol levels to cause heart ailments and other health issues.
Sure, there are cures for dysfunctional thyroid. But, prevention is always better than cure. So here’s a compilation of preventive care that ensures a healthy thyroid.
A balanced diet
A diet complete with daily helpings of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and fatty fish, good fat including nuts, and unsaturated oil will aid in the optimal absorption of essential minerals and vitamins in your body.
That said, the thyroid gland needs digestible iodine for proper functioning.
So, make sure to consume the daily-recommended amount of iodine to prevent a thyroid malfunction.
Ditch processed and fast foods
Processed and fast foods cause numerous health issues, including disrupted thyroid function.
Packed with refined sugar, trans fat, preservatives, processed food leads to intestinal inflammation and poor gut health that eventually compromises your thyroid health.
Avoid soy products
Soy products like soya bean, tofu, and soy dairy, abound in compounds that slow down thyroid hormone production. If eaten in moderation, soy will probably not interfere with thyroid function.
But if you go overboard, it might act as a possible trigger.
Consume cooked crucifers
Anti-oxidising crucifers like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, watercress, bok choy, and Brussels sprouts are powerhouse reserves of vitamin C and folate.
However, the raw form of these vegetables contains goitrogen that hinders thyroid hormone synthesis. Cooking neutralises the compound, making it safe for the gland.
Say no to smoking
Smoking exposes you to toxins like thiocyanate that affect your thyroid gland and interfere with iodine absorption.
Moreover, smoking raises thyroxine (T4) levels and lowers Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), leading to a disbalance in hormone production.
Minimising exposure to environmental toxins
Certain chemicals in daily-use products can disrupt the human endocrine system hindering thyroid hormone production.
These include perfluorinated chemicals found in flame-resistant and waterproof clothing and non-stick cookware.
Phthalates present in fragrances and soft plastics, and bisphenol-A, found in some hard plastics, are other examples of thyroid disrupting chemicals.
Triclosan, an essential ingredient in anti-bacterial soap, alters thyroid hormone production.
X-ray imaging exposes your thyroid gland to radiation that can cause lead to cancer.
If you need a dental X-ray or an X-ray of the spine, head, neck, or chest, ask for a thyroid collar to protect the gland from the harmful rays.
Despite the preventive steps, if you feel any of the symptoms indicate a dysfunctional thyroid, please consult an endocrinologist at a reliable thyroid clinic for a faster prognosis.