THYROID: GLAND AND HORMONE

Thyroid is a condition which affects the butterfly shaped gland called Thyroid Gland. Different types of Thyroid disease have different type of affects on its functioning and structure.

Thyroid gland uses Iodine to produce its vital hormones. Thyroxine (T4) is the main hormone produced by the gland, when it is released into the bloodstream some of it gets converted into Triiodothyronine (T3).

When the Thyroid hormones are decreasing, Hypothalamus in the brain produces a hormone –Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH). This further leads to the secretion of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) by the Pituitary Gland. This TSH releases more T4.

Since the thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, disorders of these tissues can also affect thyroid function and cause thyroid problems.

HYPOTHYROIDISM: When the production of thyroid hormone is below normal.

SYMPTOMS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM:

• Weight gain
• Slow metabolism
• Constipation
• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Dry and rough skin
• Swelling of legs

FOODS TO AVOID DURING HYPOTHYROIDISM

• Soy
• Gluten
• Edamame
• Tofu
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Sugary foods
• Processed foods
• Excess fiber
• Alcohol

HYPERTHYROIDISM: When the production of thyroid hormone is above normal.

SYMPTOMS OF HYPERTHYROIDISM:

• Weight loss
• Fast metabolism
• Tremor
• Nervousness
• Increased bowel movements
• Increased sweating
• Fast heart rate

FOODS TO AVOID DURING HYPERTHYROIDISM

• Egg yolks
• Fishes
• Shellfishes
• Crabs
• Prawns
• Sushi
• Milk and dairy
• Cheese
• Food colourings