5 Best Ways to Prevent Thyroid Problems :

Thyroid & it’s importance : 

Most of us must be aware or at least hear about the butterfly shaped gland called Thyroid situated at the base of neck. Thyroid is just two inches in size but, does extraordinary job of regulating the body temperature, heart rate, body weight & even the brain function. How this gland manages to perform all these functions simultaneously is because of its hormones (T3, T4 & TSH) which control all these metabolic activities and also even manage mineral intake in your blood. 

Thyroid problems :

1. Over active thyroid secretes excess of hormones leading to Hyperthyroidism 

2. Under-active Thyroid fails to produce enough of its hormones thus causing Hypothyroidism 

3. Malignant tumors can turn into thyroid cancer 

4. Formation of lumps on the normal thyroid can lead to thyroid nodules.  

Common symptoms of Thyroid Disorders: 

Hypothyroidism : Weight gain, memory loss, muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches, memory loss, depression, abnormal menstrual cycles, decreased libido, hair loss, weakness, fatigue, etc. 

Hyperthyroidism : Weight loss, increased appetite, rapid heart beat, profused seating, changes in menstrual pattern, nervousness, anxiety build up, difficulty in sleeping, skin thinning, fine and brittle hair, etc.

Know these easy ways to prevent your thyroid issues :

1. Replace nonstick cookware at your home : Nonstick cookwares are easy to wash & scratches free hence, these are preferred most of the times. But did you know food cooked in such cookware can contain nonstick chemicals which can alter your thyroid health. Hence, it’s recommended to use glass, stainless steel & American made cast-iron.   

2. Eat right : Avoid excess consumption of soy, peanuts, cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, sprouts as these foods can hinder with thyroid hormones production affecting thyroid functions. Incorporate food comprising of higher source of Iodine, Zinc, Iron & Copper as these act like fuel for thyroid to function properly.     

3. Undergo thyroid testing : In India 1 in 10 people suffer from thyroid disorders which is mainly because, the disorder goes unnoticed until severe symptoms and complications are experienced. Hence, it is advised to undergo thyroid testing to measure the levels of its hormones in your body. Also, if ignored it can increase blood pressure & cholesterol levels, causing cardiovascular complications & depression. Hence, earlier the disorder is detected easier will it be to address its complications.    

4. Ensure purity of your water : If you stay in area near to industrial zone then, there might be changes that your water supply can be contaminated by industrial effluents. For an example perchlorate (linked to thyroid diseases) is one of the by-product of rocket fuel production which can be found in contaminated water supply. Also, another water contaminants harmful for thyroid health are VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) so, carry out VOC water testing in order to avoid health hazards of it. Also, excess of  fluorides in your drinking water can lead to hypothyroidism.  

5. Say no to smoking : Most of us are well aware that, smoking is very harmful for health. It’s also destructive for thyroid health too. As it constitutes of various toxins such as thiocyanate which act as a trigger for thyroid problems. Also, smokers are more prone to develop eye complications related to an autoimmune thyroid disorder namely, Graves disease.  

Understand that thyroid health is very important for your wellbeing. Don’t risk health of the gland which takes care of your body. Know the best ways to prevent thyroid problems, implement them for healthy living & improve your quality of your life.