When one has hypothyroidism, diet plays an important role so that they do not put on unnecessary amounts of weight. While diet cannot solely rollback the condition, it can help maintain a proper weight and prevents the onset of other conditions. Consult the best thyroid specialist in Kolkata to know in detail how to control and manage the disease.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is the lowered presence of the thyroid hormone in your body. It means the thyroid gland which is present at the base of your neck does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone.
What are the types of hypothyroidism?
There are 2 types of hypothyroidism. They are primary and secondary hypothyroidism.
-
Primary Hypothyroidism
This type of hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland ceases to release the thyroid hormone even though there are plenty of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone in the bloodstream. Around 90% of primary hypothyroidism occurs because of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
Other causes of primary hypothyroidism are:
- Iodine deficiency
- Genetic disorder
- Taking certain medications
- Surgery that removes part of the thyroid
-
Secondary Hypothyroidism
Secondary hypothyroidism occurs when the pituitary gland is not working properly and fails to secrete the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) responsible for controlling the thyroid hormone levels in the body.
What is the effect of hypothyroidism on metabolism?
Following is the effect of hypothyroidism on metabolism. The thyroid hormone controls the rate of metabolism. If you have a faster metabolism then you burn more calories while at rest. Consequently, people with hypothyroidism burn fewer calories at rest. A slow metabolism makes it harder for a person to lose weight, increases blood cholesterol levels and leaves the person feeling tired.
Which are the important nutrients to consume in case of hypothyroidism?
The nutrients to consume in case of hypothyroidism are:
- Iodine
- Selenium
- Zinc
Which are the nutrients to avoid in case of hypothyroidism?
The nutrients to avoid in case of hypothyroidism are Goitrogens.
Goitrogens are compounds that interfere with the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Soy foods like tofu, tempeh and edamame, vegetables like cabbage, broccoli or kale, nuts and seeds like pine nuts and peanuts are some sources of goitrogens.
What are the foods to eat if you have hypothyroidism?
The foods you can eat when you have hypothyroidism are:
- Eggs
- Meat
- Fish
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Dairy products
- Beverages
- Gluten-free grains and seeds
The diet of a person who is suffering from hypothyroidism should be based on vegetables, fruits, and lean meats.
Conclusion
To know more about how you can live your best life possible despite suffering from thyroid, visit the best thyroid specialist in Kolkata, Dr. Amitabha Saha. With proper guidance on nutrition and care, you will have your weight and life under control in no time! Consult with him today!