Preventing Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism or low levels of thyroid are a very common condition in the sub-himalayan belt and many people in Delhi have this condition. It is also the most common disease among women and if not treated in time it can lead to severe health problems.

What is Thyroid?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland just below the Adam's apple (the slight projection at the front of the throat). This gland plays a very important role in controlling the body's metabolism, that is, how the body functions. It does this by producing thyroid hormones (T4 and T3), chemicals that travel through the blood to every part of the body. Thyroid hormones tell the body how fast to work and use energy.

What is Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormone. Since the main purpose of thyroid hormone is to "run the body's metabolism", it is understandable that people with this condition will have symptoms associated with a slow metabolism. Women, especially those older than 50, are more likely to have hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism upsets the normal balance of chemical reactions in your body. It seldom causes symptoms in the early stages, but over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.

What causes Hypothyroidism?

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Normally, antibodies produced by the immune system help protect the body against viruses, bacteria and other foreign substances. With Hashimoto's thyroiditis, antibodies attack the thyroid and keep it from producing enough hormones.

Other causes include:

• Reactions of medical treatments
• Congenital (birth) defects
• Radiation to the gland
• Excessive Stress
• High Fluoride levels
• High Chlorine level

What are the symptoms of Hypothyroidism?

The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary widely, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. At first, you may barely notice the symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as:

• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Depression
• Muscle cramps and joint pain
• Arthritis
• Goiter
• Dry, itchy skin
• Thin, brittle hair
• Weight gain and water retention
• Constipation

How can one prevent Hypothyroidism?

• An excess consumption of sugar and junk food in the diet should be avoided as it leads to depletion of vital nutrients from the body.
• Avoid excess of alcohol, caffeine (as in fizzy drinks) and smoking as it decreases the immunity and nutrient level of the body which may lead to hampering of the thyroid function.
• The fat content of the diet must go down and some amount of coconut oil is beneficial to the hypothyroid.
• Other toxins like too many prescriptions and over the counter medications should not be irresponsibly consumed. 
• Often consumption of raw foods diet like sprouts, salads, vegetable juices, fruits also go a long way in helping the body to heal and recover.
• Fish, kelp, seaweed, raw nuts are beneficial is Hypothyroidism.
• Goitrogens like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, soya should be consumed in very small amounts only.
• Foods used in the treatment of low levels of thyroid, besides seafood and sea  vegetables should be rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, B complex, vitamin C, zinc, iodine etc.
• Besides foods, regular walk is a must to lift the mood and decrease water retention.

As with any disease, it is important that you watch for the early warning signs. Check if you think you might be having any of the symptoms of Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. With proper treatment, people with a decreased metabolic rate are able to lead completely normal lives.