Hypothyroidism has become a much more common ailment in recent years, particularly in women over 60, according to Dr. Karen J. Carlson in "The New Harvard Guide to Women's Health," published in 2004. The exact reasons why this condition has become more prevalent haven't been pinned down, though doctors know that stress, trauma, diet and lack of exercise have an impact on thyroid function. Changing your diet is one component of healing your thyroid and returning it to normal, although you may still need thyroid medication. Check with your doctor if you have any concerns about your thyroid before beginning a hypothyroid diet.
Identification
The thyroid is a gland located at the base of the neck below the Adam's apple. It is responsible for secreting the hormones which oversee energy and metabolism in the body. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive, which leads to a shortage of thyroid hormones. Weight gain, cold temperatures, slower heart rate, dry and brittle hair and nails, and fatigue are all possible symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.
Diet
According to M. Sara Rosenthal, Ph.D. in her book, "The Thyroid Sourcebook," you should consume a low glycemic index, low-fat, high fiber diet if you suffer from hypothyroidism. High glycemic foods break down quickly as sugar in your body, and impact insulin levels, as well as the adrenals and the thyroid gland, making them work harder to deal with the sharp rise in blood sugar levels. High fat foods are harder to digest than low-fat foods, making the thyroid expend more energy to handle the process. Hypothyroidism also often leads to bloating, with which a high fiber diet can help. Specific foods to avoid include soy, uncooked cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts as they are goitrogens, which inhibit thyroid function.
Other Lifestyle Factors
Diet is not the only important factor in treating hypothyroidism. Lifestyle changes like moderately increasing exercise and decreasing stress are also very beneficial for the thyroid. Dr. Diana Schwarzbein notes in her book, "The Schwarzbein Principle II: The Transition" that getting more sleep, participating in cross-training exercises, removing toxic chemicals and getting enough essential fatty acids are necessary in healing the thyroid. Bodywork and meditation also are purported to be helpful for the thyroid.
Considerations
It is very important to get tested by your doctor to determine if you suffer from hypothyroidism before you begin self-treatment. Thyroid medication may be necessary, or you may be suffering from a different ailment. Treating the thyroid properly is essential for both current and future health, and should not be evaluated lightly. Be sure to incorporate diet as well as lifestyle factors when treating hypothyroidism, and have the thyroid tested consistently.
References
- "Prescription for Drug Alternatives"; James Balch, M.D.; 2008
- "The Thyroid Sourcebook"; M. Sara Rosenthal, Ph.D.; 2008
- "The Schwarzbein Principle II: The Transition"; Diana Schwarzbein, M.D.; 2002
- "The New Harvard Guide to Women's Health"; Karen J. Carlson, M.D.; 2004
