Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of certain crucial hormones. It’s an autoimmune condition in which your body’s immune system starts attacking the thyroid gland, 88% increase in risk factors for hypothyroidism because of obesity. Hypothyroidism signs and symptoms may include fatigue, increased sensitivity to colds, Constipation, Dry skin, Weight gain Puffy face, Muscle weakness, Elevated blood cholesterol level, stiffness or swelling in your joints, Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods, Thinning hair, Depression and Impaired memory. It happens because of Food sensitivity, stress, chronic infections; Nutritional deficiency in key nutrients like selenium, B12, Vitamin D, iron, and zinc may affect the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
Thyroid gland regulates metabolism and appetite. When thyroid levels are low, your metabolism slows and you burn less energy, additionally, you are less likely to burn fat for energy, which can lead to weight gain. Thyroid hormones interact with many of your tissues, including your brain, fat cells, muscle, liver and pancreas .Body composition and thyroid hormones appear to be closely related. Thyroid hormones regulate basal metabolism, thermogenesis and play an important role in lipid and glucose metabolism, food intake and fat oxidation. Thyroid dysfunction is associated with changes in body weight and composition, body temperature and total resting energy expenditure and has also been shown to correlate with a higher body mass index (BMI) and a higher prevalence of obesity. There is clinical evidence suggesting that even mild thyroid dysfunction in the form of subclinical hypothyroidism is linked to significant changes in body weight and represents a risk factor for overweight and obesity.
It’s important to get the recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals in your diet. Making sure you have enough healthy nutrients in your diet can also contribute to a healthy thyroid functions. Low levels of iodine can also contribute to hypothyroidism, so be sure to use iodine-enriched salt (most table salts) and iodine-rich food. Zinc,Selenium,Calcium,Vitamin D and Iron can improve thyroid function may help restore your metabolism and ideal bodyweight.
Foods, rich in iodine and zinc, include cheese, Iodized table salt, fish whole eggs, eat at least 3-5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day, include beans, pulses, fish, eggs, and other proteins, choose unsaturated oils, drink plenty of fluids (at least 6 to 8 glasses a day). Fibre-rich foods include whole grains, fruits, and veggies. Make sure to get plenty of nutrients, and look to proteins from lean sources such as fish, or plant-based options like beans or nuts. Consider also eating healthy fat sources, such as olive oil or omega-3 fatty acids.
First and foremost, focus on eating a nutritious diet, since this will keep delivering benefits even after your thyroid hormone levels have been normalized following medical treatment. One great way to promote thyroid healing and health is to support your overall well-being through a healthy diet. If you stick to the basics of nutrition, and follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions regarding your individual thyroid condition, you may be well on your way to a symptom-free lifestyle. Make lifestyle changes that will naturally support your thyroid functions.