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.

Know Your Thyroid!

Today is celebrated as ‘Thyroid Day’ in many parts of the world, and here’s what you need to know about your “Thyroid Gland” a tiny butterfly shaped organ that rests in the front and at the base of your neck.

The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine organs (organs that secrete hormones) that produces hormones responsible supporting the numerous activities that are carried out by you to stay healthy and fine!

What are the hormones produced by the Thyroid gland?

The thyroid gland produces two important hormones namely - Triiodothyronine (T3 hormone) and Thyroxine (T4 hormone). The production and regulation of their level is very well-managed by yet another hormone called Thyroid stimulating Hormone (TSH) which is produced by the ‘Master gland’, the “Pituitary gland”.

What are your thyroid hormones responsible for?

Your thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating and managing your -

-  Heart rate

-  Body weight

-  Cholesterol levels

-  Body temperature

-  Menstrual cycles in females

-  Muscle strength

-  Nervous system and many more...

Are there any conditions or disorders that can affect your thyroid gland?

Yes! Your thyroid hormones can fluctuate to extremes and can give rise to two important conditions; these two conditions are Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

When your thyroid gland fails to produce enough levels of its hormones is termed as Hypothyroidism. If you are suffering from this low level of thyroid hormone condition, it will be quite visible in your body activities such as,

-  Weight gain

-  Tingling in the fingers

-  Constipation

-  Low heart rate

-  Loss of hair

-  Memory problems

-  Infertility, miscarriages, etc.

When your thyroid gland fails to control and regulate the production of its hormones it gives rise to Hyperthyroidism. This condition can give rise to,

- Increased heart rate

- Nervousness & irritability

- Trembling hands & breathlessness

- Scanty or complete absence of menses in females

- Weight loss & weakness, etc.

What is Goiter?

It is the enlargement of the thyroid gland and is caused due to deficiency of iodine, an important element responsible for thyroid hormone production. Presence of goiter can give rise to either of the conditions i.e. Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism.

Can your thyroid gland be affected with Cancer?

Yes, it is one of the most uncommon types of cancers and well manageable at its early stages. It initially starts in the thyroid gland itself and presents itself in the form of nodules or lumps that can be felt in the gland. The cancer is quiet non-invasive and majority of the treatment strategies work well. In extreme cases, total removal of the thyroid gland is also carried out. 

How do I check if my thyroid is working fine?

Test the levels of your thyroid hormones! That’s a best way to analyse if the gland is working all fine. Besides that, physical evaluation of the gland for detecting presence of any nodules or lumps is yet another way to evaluate its health.

So this Thyroid Day ensure to get yourself tested and keep thyroid disorders away!