7 healthy tips for hypothyroidism

There is an effect named the 'Butterfly Effect'. This effect generally talks about how everything is connected to each other and a very small change caused in the starting point will create some serious issues at the end. The same effect can be observed in the case of our thyroid gland. Thyroid gland of our body is considered as the master of our metabolism. The activities (crucial body functions) controlled by the production of hormones from this gland are regulation of temperature, production of energy and management of weight. When the gland is compromised, it sends certain signals and effects (in and on our body) which are very easily ignored, mistreated or misdiagnosed and can be written off as signs of aging and stress rather than looking at it as a thyroid disorder.

Hypothyroidism is a generally occurring condition in which the creation and release of thyroid hormone from the thyroid into our blood stream is not sufficient. This leads to slowing down of our metabolism. This is also known as underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism can make you feel tired, gain weight and make it difficult for you to tolerate low or cold temperatures. To treat hypothyroidism your main focus should be on hormone replacement therapy. 

There is another condition called myxedema in which the thyroid levels go very low and cause severe symptoms (low body temperature, anemia, coma, confusion and heart failure). This is a very severe kind of hypothyroidism which is life threatening. 

Hypothyroidism is generally caused in women who are over the age of 60 but can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnicities. It's particularly observed in woman's after they have reached menopause not early in their life.

Hypothyroidism can have two different types of causes : a primary cause or a secondary cause. 

Primary cause of hypothyroidism: 

• Hashimoto's disease

• Thyroiditis

• Iodine deficiency

• Hereditary conditions

Symptoms of hypothyroidism: 

• Feeling tired (fatigue)

• Constipation

• Weight gain

• Numbness and tingling in our hands

• Depression

• Decreased sexual interest

• Having heavy and frequent menstrual periods.

• Become more forgetful. 

Tips to deal with hypothyroidism: 

• Eating a balanced diet:

This is recommended by all the dietitians and doctors to have a balanced diet which will provide your body all the nutrients that it needs. Having a balanced diet becomes more critical for a person who is suffering from fatigue or has low energy. This also helps us not gain much weight and this is also associated with an underactive thyroid. You should be very much focused regarding your meals including veggies, fruits, lean, protein, whole grain and healthy fats, so that you have the nutrients in adequate amounts. You should try to eat smaller meals instead of having three large ones throughout your day which helps you to keep your energy levels constant. Your nutritional needs can be completed with the help of inclusion of multivitamin and other dietary supplements. 

• Avoid iodine in your diet:

Iodine deficiency is regarded as the main reason for the cause of hypothyroidism. There are many sources which tell or suggest that people who suffer from hypothyroidism should increase the intake of iodine from sources like iodized salt, seaweed and fresh ocean fish. But if you are able to get enough iodine in your diet then you should avoid taking any extra of it. You should consult your doctor about this and what your body needs.

• Curbing the soy intake:

There are some people who take soy excessively which affects the functioning of their thyroid gland effectively. If you are habitual of eating soy on a regular basis you should let your doctor know about this. There may be chances that you might need to increase your medication. While talking thyroid hormone if you are eating soy too there are chances that it may affect the absorption of the thyroid in our body. If you want to have soy products then you should probably wait for at least three hours after taking the medications.

• Selenium:

A lot of studies show that small amounts of selenium are very helpful in reducing the inflammation found in different areas because of Hashimoto's disease (when the immune system attacks the thyroid). This leads to delay in the progression of hypothyroidism. A naturally occurring source of selenium is Brazilian nuts. Discuss with your doctor about the intake of this whether it is right for you or not. If he permits the intake of it you should know what amount is required in your diet.

• Exercise:

We should consider exercising an important part of our daily life. Let me tell you, people having hypothyroidism should start practicing exercising as it can be very beneficial for them. This can help them boost their energy, decrease stress and help to maintain a healthy weight. You might ask your doctor to suggest a proper exercise routine and make sure the routine has three crucial elements involved: cardio (aerobics), weightlifting (strength training) and flexibility. 

• Proper way of taking medicine:

Medicine for hypothyroidism works best when eaten on an empty stomach. The medicine best works when we wait about 1 hour before taking any other medications and 4 hours before taking any other supplements such as fibre, protein, calcium etc.

• Yoga:

Yoga can prove to be very helpful to many people who suffer from hypothyroidism. One pose in yoga called the sarvangasana (a shoulder stand), is very helpful in increasing the circulation of the thyroid. You have to lie on your back, then lift your legs and lower part of the body at a right angle to the floor which concentrates the weight of your body to the upper arms, head, neck and shoulders. Your hands should be placed under the mid-back and then you should look up in the direction of your toes. Try to hold this position for five minutes a day on a daily basis. This position is not advisable to perform when you are menstruating or pregnant. 

For curing hypothyroidism there are no other exercises or dietary tips. But following these tips would surely reduce the effect of hypothyroidism. When you follow a healthy diet incorporated with exercise, proper sleep, relaxation and proper medication you will start to feel well. Thus, you will recognise the importance of healthy lifestyle.