The thyroid is a very important gland in the body that many people do not think about unless something goes wrong. And, usually, nothing happens. But when it does, it can have a lot of impact on the body.
The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland that is located at the base of the neck. It plays a critical role in regulating metabolism. It also controls the function of the heart and muscles, as well as the development of the brain and bone maintenance.
To do all of these functions, the thyroid secretes what are known as hormones. These hormones are meant to do specific tasks. When the thyroid is in a good state, it should produce the right amount of these hormones, which is just what the body needs.
But when things go wrong, it could under-produce (hypothyroidism) or over-produce (hyperthyroidism) these hormones. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are conditions associated with the thyroid, and one would need medical assistance to treat them.
While you treat them, it is very important that you observe certain important health tips that would aid your recovery. These health tips mostly include what you should eat and avoid, as your diet plays a significant role in your recovery.
1. Avoid adding table salt to your food
Now, while adding salt to your food is very important to help improve the taste, your body does not need salt every time. For example, if you use salt in the morning, you can avoid using it for the rest of the day.
If you must use salt at all, make sure you use it in very small amounts and in foods that are not naturally salty. This is particularly important if what you have is hypothyroidism (under-production of hormones).
Hypothyroidism also increases the risk of high blood pressure, and sodium, which is contained in salt, could make things worse.
In addition, you should reduce to avoid using seasoning cubes because they are high in salt.
2. Avoid processed foods
This tip is very important. Processed foods do not do your body any good. A lot of them contain bad fats, which would only increase your bad cholesterol levels. Hence thyroid patients are advised to limit to avoid processed foods.
They also contain empty calories that would add to your weight without having any nutritional impact. Not to mention that most processed foods have high amounts of sodium, which is something you do not want at this point.
3. Eat foods with the right nutrients
While every nutrient is essential, there are some nutrients the body needs more of when you have a thyroid problem. These nutrients include zinc, selenium, and iodine. Iodine deficiency is one of the causes of hypothyroidism. There are so many foods that are rich in iodine.
As long as you maintain a healthy, balanced diet, you should be supplying your body with all of these nutrients and more. And also, take note not to overdo the consumption of these nutrients as it could lead to another condition.
4. Do not eat too much food at once
When you have a thyroid condition, you should avoid eating too much food at a go. Choose to stop eating when you are full rather than looking to make the plate empty. You can divide your food to eat at different times of the day instead of having to eat too much at once.
5. Avoid tobacco, and alcohol
Another crucial health tip for thyroid patients is to avoid certain things such as tobacco and alcohol.
If you have a thyroid condition, it might be in your best interest to either reduce or abstain from alcohol. This is because alcohol causes direct cellular toxicity to thyroid cells and affects the thyroid function.
Furthermore, many studies have linked smoking tobacco to poor thyroid health.
Conclusion
The thyroid gland is an important organ that many vital functions in the body. However, for some reason, many people suffer from thyroid conditions that affect their health. If you’re dealing with any thyroid condition, the above health tips for thyroid patients can help you manage the condition and remain healthy.
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