An underactive thyroid occurs when the body does not produce enough thyroid hormone. As with any hormone in the body, the thyroid gland is responsible for a number of physiological functions. Therefore, hypothyroidism can result in weight gain and fatigue. Eating the right foods and avoiding others may reduce symptoms, promote weight loss and enhance feelings of overall well-being.
The Thyroid Gland
The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that the thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, below the larynx. The thyroid gland is made up of follicular and parafollicular cells. The follicular cells secrete iodine-containing hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyroine (T3). The parafollicular cells secrete the hormone calcitonin; iodine is needed as a precursor. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating the body's metabolism and calcium balance. The T4 and T3 hormones stimulate the body's tissues to produce proteins and increase the amount of oxygen used by cells.
Hypothyroidism
Medline Plus defines hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid as a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the important T3 and T4 hormones. This condition alters the normal balance of chemical reactions within the body. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is inflammation of the thyroid gland which damages the cells. Other causes include: postpartum thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, radiation treatment, radioactive iodine and certain pharmaceuticals including lithium and methinazole. Hypothyroidism is especially prevalent among women who are age 50 and older.
Symptoms
Mayo Clinic reports that the symptoms of an underactive thyroid vary depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency and develop gradually over a number of years. Symptoms begin with fatigue, sluggishness, increased sensitivity to cold and progress as the body's metabolism continues to slow. Dry skin, puffy face, hoarse voice, elevated cholesterol, unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, brittle hair, heavy menstruation and depression are all symptoms of hypothyroidism. If hypothyroidism is left untreated, more severe symptoms may develop.
Foods to Avoid
The Low Thyroid Diet website says that the foods which put stress on the body also impair thyroid function. Therefore, avoiding certain foods boosts the body's overall health as well as thyroid function. Caffeinated beverages, artificial sweeteners, processed snack foods, processed meats, pre-packaged meals and alcohol cause a hormonal imbalance that prevents proper functioning of the thyroid in addition to providing little or no nutritive value. Foods containing goitrogens, including peaches, strawberries, peanuts, pine nuts, broccoli, kale, cabbage, corn, turnip and rutabaga, also suppress thyroid function.
Healthy Thyroid Foods
According to Your Body Can Heal, a healthy diet for hypothyroidism is one that emphasizes natural foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, poultry and seafood. Adequate fiber intake aids in weight loss efforts as it promotes increased satiety. Consuming five or six small meals spread out throughout the day will enhance the body's metabolism. The key to a thyroid diet is to provide the body with clean, healthy foods. Eating a variety of unprocessed, natural foods will provide the body with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals that it needs.
