As seen on Collective Evolution, thyroid-related problems have become very common in recent years and this has led to the creation of numerous questions about the thyroid, for example, what is the role of the thyroid, where it is located, what are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, etc.
If you are also interested about your thyroid health of if you are suspecting a thyroid-related health problem, continue reading this article to learn more.
What Does the Thyroid Do?
As explained on Collective Evolution, the thyroid is a gland which releases hormones that regulate several metabolic processes, including energy and growth expenditure. In case it becomes slower or faster, it will impact the metabolism accordingly, and thus, lead to numerous symptoms. Although both sexes are prone to thyroid complications, the risk is higher in women.
Hyperthyroidism vs. Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by an excessive production of the thyroid hormone
- Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient levels of the thyroid hormone
What about Symptoms?
- Hypothyroidism is often manifested by sluggishness, poor focus and concentration, dry hair and skin, muscle ache and cramps, fluid retention, and cold sensitivity
- Hyperthyroidism is characterized by loss of weight, faster heart rate, insomnia, irritability, anxiety, and heat sensitivity
The Main Causes for Thyroid Problems
- Too many toxins in the body
- Chronic stress
- Lack of iodine
- Buildup of heavy metals
- Some autoimmune illnesses
- Grave’s disease
- Toxic adenomas
- Subacute thyroiditis
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Thyroid removal
- Excessive exposure to lithium or iodide
How to Best Avert Thyroid Problems
First and foremost, it is pivotal to lead a healthy lifestyle that will maintain the thyroid healthy and the metabolism optimal. In case you have been diagnosed with some thyroid condition, you may need to be more caution to your way of life, especially your diet.
Check out these 7 best tips on how to better your thyroid function and the metabolism.
- Address the underlying problem
You need to consult a doctor to discover the cause of the thyroid-related problem and adequately address it. Some potential causes are lack of iodine, too much stress, allergies, some foods causing digestive stress, etc.
- Manage stress
Nowadays, stress is all around us and since we cannot entirely prevent it, it is pivotal to find ways to manage it, for example, exercise, yoga, meditation, breathing techniques, spending time outdoors, etc.
- Thyroid hormones
In some cases, patients may be prescribed a hormone replacement therapy to support the thyroid gland health.
- Heat therapy
According to some, saunas and heat may be helpful in expelling the toxins accumulated in the body.
- Take the adequate supplements
There are a lot of supplements and nutrients onto which you can rely to better your thyroid health. Consult a naturopath or a holistic doctor to find the best option for you.
- Follow a quality diet
Proper nutrition is crucial in supporting your thyroid function. So, make sure you enrich your diet with foods that have zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and selenium, as well as other important vitamins and minerals. Avoid refined sugars, flours, and all other processed foods due to the abundance of sugar present in them and other unhealthy ingredients.
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