The thyroid gland resembles a small butterfly. It is located at the base of the neck and works by absorbing iodine and converting it into hormones, of which the main two are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help regulate multiple functions in your body, including your metabolic rate, body temperature, heart rate, and the production of proteins. The thyroid gland also produces calcitonin, a hormone that helps to regulate the amount of calcium in the blood.
A dysfunctional thyroid gland can speed up or slow down the metabolic process and cause health problems. There are two types of thyroid gland disorders:
Hyperthyroidism – overactivity of the thyroid gland that results in a rapid heartbeat and an increased rate of metabolism.
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is the autoimmune disease Graves’ disease, which often results in an enlarged thyroid.
Hypothyroidism – the thyroid gland functions abnormally slow which results in retardation of growth and mental development in both adults and children. A shortage of thyroid hormones at an early age can lead stunted growth and mental retardation.
One example is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack thyroid tissue. The tissue eventually dies and stops producing hormones.
What are the risk factors for thyroid disorders?
Iodine Deficiency: Found in seawater and soil in coastal areas, iodine is essential for proper functioning of the thyroid gland as it converts the iodine to T4 and T3.
People living in mountainous areas, which lack iodine, are at a higher risk of developing hypothyroidism.
Age: Thyroid disorders are common after the age of forty, especially among women.
Genetics: Thyroid disorders tend to run in families.
Pregnancy and menopause: For reasons that are not quite clear, thyroid problems are likely to occur during pregnancy and within 6 months after menopause.
Specific Medications: Some medications, including certain heart medications and lithium (prescribed for psychological problems), can increase the risk of getting this disease.
Exposure to radiation: The risk of thyroid hyperplasia increases if you undergo radiotherapy in the neck or chest area.
What are the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction?
Swelling in the neck: A slight swelling might appear in the front area of the neck accompanied with some pain, and the sound of the voice might roughen.
Weight gain or weight loss: Since thyroid hormones regulate the body’s metabolism, hyperthyroidism causes weight loss, while hypothyroidism causes weight gain.
Change in the body’s temperature and irregular heart rate: While hyperthyroidism causes an increase in body temperature and heartbeat, hypothyroidism causes a drop in body temperature and heartbeat.
Changes in psychological state and impact on activity: Lower levels of thyroid hormones can result in fatigue, as well as feeling depressed, stressed, or lazy. On the other hand, an increased level of thyroid hormones can lead to hyperactivity and feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and tension. It is may also affect memory.
Irregular menstrual cycle: Irregular cycle, painful contractions, and severe bleeding may be signs of hypothyroidism. A short menstrual cycle and low blood flow, on the other hand, are signs of hyperthyroidism. Low levels of thyroid hormones can also interfere with ovulation and impair fertility.
Hair loss and nail breakage: Chronic hair loss, nail breakage, and dry skin can all be signs of hypothyroidism.
Constipation and diarrhea: Frequent constipation and swellings are among the symptoms of hypothyroidism, while diarrhea can be an indicator of hyperthyroidism.
How to care for your thyroid’s health
Although their effects can be uncomfortable, most thyroid problems can be managed well if properly diagnosed and treated.
Healthy eating
According to the Mayo Clinic, there’s no evidence that eating or avoiding certain foods will improve thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism. However, adequate dietary iodine is essential for normal thyroid function, and avoiding dietary extremes will ensure thyroid health.
If you have hypothyroidism, take thyroid hormone replacement medication as directed by your doctor — generally with an empty stomach. It’s also important to note that too much dietary fiber can impair the absorption of synthetic thyroid hormones. Certain foods, supplements and medications can have the same effect.
Avoid taking your thyroid hormone at the same time as:
Antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium
Calcium supplements
Cottonseed meal
Iron supplements or multivitamins containing iron
Soybean flour
Walnuts
Watch iodine levels
Keep an eye on your iodine levels! Thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are named T4 and T3 because of the number of iodine molecules they possess. Without iodine, your body can’t make these hormones resulting in health issues.
Iodine rich foods include seafood, seaweed, and fortified dairy products such as cheese and milk.
The recommended daily intake for a healthy adult is 150 mcg per day, while pregnant women need 250 mcg daily and lactating women need 290 mcg daily.
Many countries have implemented health and policies mandating salt fortification with iodine in attempt to reduce iodine deficiency.
However, if you get too much iodine you can experience some of the same symptoms as iodine deficiency. Always consult with a doctor to establish your iodine levels, agree on any required supplementation, and consider any other medications you may be taking as iodine can interfere with some medications.
Exercise
Regular physical exercise that is moderate or high in intensity – even if performed for just 3 minutes at a time – will help your thyroid gland continue to produce enough thyroid hormone to keep your metabolism at a healthy level.
Quit smoking
Yet another reason to give up smoking! Cigarettes contain cyanide, which prevents the absorption of iodine in the body.
Protection from X-rays
When having X-rays taken of areas near the neck such as your teeth, always as your radiologist for an X-ray neck shield and use it to protect your neck.
If you suspect that your thyroid is not functioning optimally, do consult with your doctor.
Keep your body in top shape, take care of your thyroid’s health!
