The thyroid gland performs an essential function in the body, and the thyroid hormone is responsible for the regulation of the metabolism, the growth and the energy of the body.
However, the issues related to the work of this gland are common. Namely, its high or low activity leads to illnesses like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
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It is of vital importance to know all about these terms, the symptoms, causes and treatments in order to successfully prevent health issues. According to statistics, 1 out of 20 people is susceptible to develop some kind of thyroid issues in their life. Moreover, women are more likely to develop these illnesses.
Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism
These two health issues are a result of the imbalance of the thyroid hormone. Its production should not be deficient nor excessive, in order to prevent hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a result of a deficiency of the thyroid hormone in the body. In the case of hypothyroidism, the individual experiences the following symptoms: cramping, muscle pain, dry skin, trouble in concentration, excess fluid in tissues, thinning of hair, tiredness, as well as sensitivity to cold temperatures.
By contrast, hyperthyroidism occurs in the case of excessive production of this hormone and leads to symptoms like an acceleration of heart rate, diarrhea, irritation, anxiety, unexpected weight loss, sleeping trouble, nervousness, and heat sensitivity.
In some cases, when the thyroid gland works too hard, it causes the formation of a large lump in the throat, as a symptom of lack of iodine, and it is called goitre.
However, your lifestyle is a determining influence on the incidence of these conditions. Namely, its most significant triggers are the following:
- Deficiency of Iodine
- Accumulation of toxins
- Metal buildup
- Chronic stress
Furthermore, conditions such as toxic adenomas, thyroiditis, or Graves’ sickness can cause the occurrence of hyperthyroidism, while hypothyroidism may be triggered by overexposure to iodine or lithium, thyroid removal or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Prevention and treatment
- Proper nutrition
Your diet is of fundamental importance in the treatment of these issues. Therefore, you should avoid or reduce the consumption of sugar, processed foods, and refined flours, and increase the intake of iodine, zinc, omega-3 fats, and selenium, as they promote thyroid health.
- Exercise
Regular exercise supports the thyroid function, so they can help you substantially re-balance the production of this hormone.
- Stress management
Prolonged stress causes exhaustion of the adrenal which leads to thyroid related issues. Therefore, you should engage in some relaxing activities, and stress management programs, like meditation, yoga, walks in nature or breathing exercises which will significantly reduce tension and provide calmness and peace of mind.
- Heat therapy
Thyroid issues may also be treated with a heat therapy or sauna session, as these methods detox the body and eliminate the toxins which lead to problems with the thyroid.
- Nutritional supplements
Before you decide to use some alternative products to treat these issues, you need to consult your doctor or holistic practitioner. However, you can find numerous effective products to maintain a proper thyroid metabolism.
- Thyroid hormones
In order to treat or prevent these issues and support the thyroid health, your doctor may inform you about some effective thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
- Prevent thyroid issues by preventing their causes
In order to successfully prevent thyroid problems, you need to prevent the major causes of their occurrence. Therefore, you should reduce stress, and treat allergies, heavy metals and nutritional deficiencies on time. Moreover, you should avoid dairy products and gluten, which cause digestive distress.
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