Underactive Thyroid Symptoms and Diet
Symptoms of Underactive Thyroid
An under active thyroid gland, is what is responsible for causing hypothyroidism. This condition is caused when a person’s thyroid gland does not produce a sufficient amount of the thyroid hormone. The hormones that are secreted by the thyroid gland are largely responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism. Thus, when there is reduced quantity of hormones being produced, the body’s metabolic activities tend to get directly affected. This condition can be caused either when there is a problem with the thyroid gland itself or when some pre-existing condition in the body begins to hamper with its normal functioning. Reduced levels of the thyroid hormone leads to a decrease in metabolism and also increases the risk of heart diseases, and other health problems. Some of the symptoms associated with this condition are; weakness and fatigue, muscle aches and cramps, weight gain, constipation, lack of appetite, rough and dry skin, goiter, memory loss, depression, heavy or irregular menstrual cycles, swelling of the face or eyes, and an increase in blood cholesterol levels. Although this condition is fairly common, a large number of people may be unaware of its existence, and it may thus go untreated for several years.
Diet for Underactive Thyroid
A change in one’s lifestyle and dietary habits may help this condition to some extent. A person suffering from this condition needs to reduce the intake of salt. A diet that is high in fiber would be beneficial as it will reduce constipation; a very common symptom associated with this condition. Oatmeal, whole grains, rice and beans all have high fiber content. Opt for complex carbohydrates such as whole grains. Go in for several small meals a day instead of just three large ones; this will help in balancing the sluggish metabolism. Increase the intake of fruits and green vegetables, a large part of the carbohydrates should come from these foods.
Drinking plenty of water would also prove to be beneficial. Primarily you will need to avoid foods which tend to hamper the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, these would include; mustard greens, wheat, dairy products, refined foods, peanuts, pine nuts, millet, soybean, turnips, spinach, kale, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. A diet which contains the vitamins A, B, C, E, zinc and selenium, will help improve the functioning of the thyroid, simply because they promote production of the thyroid hormones. Examples of such foods would be; sea food, poultry, tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, fortified cereals, carrots, green and red peppers, strawberries, kiwis and citrus fruits.
