Hypothyroidism and hypoglycemia are health conditions that may occur simultaneously in some individuals. In most cases, however, these two conditions occur independent of each other. According to PubMed Health, hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland does not create enough thyroid hormone, whereas hypoglycemia is a condition that commonly occurs in diabetics and may be associated with increased production of insulin in your pancreas. Before altering your diet to help treat your hypothyroidism or hypoglycemia, review all relevant diet-related topics with your doctor.
Hypothyroidism and Hypoglycemia Info
Hypothyroidism, notes Columbia University Medical Center, may be caused by numerous factors, including the use of lithium drugs, pregnancy, aging, thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, brain diseases and disorders of your pituitary gland or hypothalamus. The most common cause of hypothyroidism, however, is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of hypoglycemia. Possible non-diabetes-related causes of hypoglycemia include the use of certain medications, alcohol abuse, tumors, endocrine deficiencies and severe illnesses of your liver or kidneys, states MayoClinic.com. Starvation, including starvation associated with anorexia nervosa, may also lead to hypoglycemia.
Diet for Hypothyroidism
A proper diet for treating hypothyroidism includes certain dietary additions and subtractions. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that increasing your consumption of foods rich in vitamin B and iron -- whole-grain products, fresh vegetables, sea vegetables -- may be helpful in treating this condition. Cherries, tomatoes, squash and bell peppers may also be beneficial. Foods that may impair your thyroid function and that you should avoid include broccoli, cabbage, millet, cassava, sprouts and mustard greens.
Diet for Hypoglycemia
Certain dietary changes may be helpful in treating your hypoglycemia. According to Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and the author of "The Natural Pharmacy," eliminating refined sugars from your diet may be the most important dietary strategy in treating your condition. Eliminating alcohol may also prove effective in maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. High-fiber foods, such as legumes, vegetables, fruits, whole grains and nuts, may be helpful dietary inclusions in treating your hypoglycemia.
Additional Information
Hypoglycemia can be a dangerous condition if it is not managed by a skilled health care practitioner in an appropriate and timely fashion. Hypothyroidism, though not a health emergency, should also be treated by a qualified health care professional. If you develop the characteristic symptoms of either of these health problems, report to your primary care provider as soon as possible for a full and thorough evaluation. Some foods and dietary strategies traditionally used in treating these conditions may require further scientific scrutiny.
References
- PubMed Health: Hypothyroidism
- PubMed Health: Hypoglycemia
- Columbia University Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- MayoClinic.com: Hypoglycemia
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
