What is Thyroid and what you can do for its normal functioning?

Nowadays, one of the major causes of many diseases is our changed lifestyle and poor eating habits. Over the years, our way of living has posed some serious threats to our sound health and the rat race of our life has slowly started ailing us. One such disorder which has resulted in because of our careless approach to life is thyroid disorder.

Though, there are some factors like genetics which are beyond our control, but some other factors like stress and the food that we choose can lead to thyroid disorder. On the other hand, there are many healthy food options which can help your Thyroid in its smooth functioning.

What is thyroid?

Thyroid is a small gland which is situated in the middle part of your lower neck. Though thyroid gland is very small but it plays a very important role in our body. It is very important for the metabolism and development of our body. It regulates our body functions by producing a steady amount of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream.

What is thyroid disorder?

Any imbalance in the secretion of thyroid hormone leads to thyroid disorder. As thyroid helps in controlling growth, repairing cells and in metabolism, so any imbalance in the amount of hormone that is produced by thyroid gland leads to many symptoms affecting our body’s energy production and consumption. Hence, one may suffer from loss of hair, obesity and many other diseases.

What are the types of thyroid disorder?

Thyroid disorder can be classified into two types – hypothyroidism (lesser hormone production) and hyperthyroidism (production of more hormone). Whereas overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) causes more hormone production, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) causes less hormone production. These two types of conditions are caused because of different diseases which affect the way thyroid gland works.

How diet affects thyroid gland?

Diet plays a very important role in thyroid disorder. A diet which is balanced and full of nutrition not only treats thyroid problem but nutritious diet reduces the symptoms also, if it is paired with proper medicine. Foods rich in iodine, calcium and Vitamin D minimise the symptoms of thyroid to a great extent.

So, what to include?

Given below is a list of some fruits which should be a part of your diet if you expect Thyroid working normally:

1. Berries

Berries are an excellent source of antioxidants, so these are very good for thyroid gland. Berries stimulate hormones in thyroid gland and thus help in their smooth functioning. Besides, berries are good for you if you are suffering from diabetes and obesity, which are quite common if you have thyroid disease. Also, berries protect us from oxidative damage.

2. Pineapple

Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and manganese. These nutrients are good for you as they fight against damages by free radicals. Apart from these, Vitamin B, present in pineapple, fights against fatigue and this is quite common if you are suffering from thyroid disorder. Pineapple also fights off cancer, tumour and relieves constipation

3. Oranges

Oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. So, oranges fight against free radicals which cause inflammation in the thyroid gland.

4. Apple

Apart from many other benefits, apple keeps your thyroid gland in working state. As apple helps in detoxification, so thyroid gland functions well. Also, it is helpful if you have diabetes, heart disease, obesity or high cholesterol level.

What to avoid?

While, it is very important to include certain fruits, at the same time it is very important that you must avoid certain foods which work against smooth functioning of thyroid gland. Highly processed foods like cake, cookies and chips and beverages like coffee and alcohol should be avoided or taken in moderation for a better thyroid gland.

A word of caution

As there are separate foods for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, so it is very important that before going for any type of foods, you take the advice of a doctor. Whether you are suffering from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, only a qualified health care practitioner can guide you the best in this case.

A 360-degree overview

Thyroid disorder causes many symptoms like tiredness and weight gain. The good news is that if you eat nutrient-rich foods along with proper medicine, you will be able to reduce Thyroid symptoms and improve its function to a great extent. By adopting a thyroid-friendly diet and avoiding certain harmful foods, you can actually help your thyroid in its normal hormone secretion.

(The content of this article is for informational purpose only. It cannot be a substitute for advice from a medical practitioner. Read DISCLAIMER for more…)

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