Adopt These Simple Lifestyle Changes To Manage Thyroid Diseases Better

The symptoms of thyroid dysfunction are vague and non-specific. People with thyroid diseases often present unclear symptoms which is why the disease remains undiagnosed for a long time in a majority of the cases. Whether it is hypothyroidism (decreased thyroid function) or hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function) – each case has to be dealt with correct medications, regular check-ups, and lifestyle changes.

What You Should Know:

• What is a thyroid disease?
• Lifestyle changes to manage thyroid disease

What is Thyroid Disease?

Any dysfunction in the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck, known as the thyroid gland, is referred to as thyroid disease. The most common thyroid problems are associated with the abnormal production of thyroid hormones, including problems such as Grave’s disease, Goitre, and Subacute thyroiditis amongst others.

Lifestyle Changes To Manage Thyroid Disease

Along with the right treatment, there are a number of things you can do to manage thyroid problems. These include healthy lifestyle habits in your daily routine. Here are some healthy lifestyle changes that will help you overcome your thyroid woes faster.

• Manage stress

Stress makes your thyroid gland perform at sub-optimum levels. Thus, destressing with activities like yoga, reading a book, or taking long walks can help your thyroid gland perform better.

• Cut down on gluten and grains

This is advisable, especially if you are suffering from Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Excess intake of grains and foods that are rich in gluten steps up inflammation in the body. Opting for gluten-free but nourishing foods can thus give your body time to heal faster.

• Avoid raw goitrogenic vegetables

Certain vegetables like kale, cauliflower, broccoli, sprouts, cabbage, and turnip are known to suppress thyroid function, especially when eaten raw. If you cannot do without these veggies, cook them before eating to manage your thyroid disease better.

• Indulge in seafood

Seafood and sea vegetables contain iodine which is extremely beneficial for correcting thyroid function.

• Eat a diet rich in Omega-3

Foods that are rich in Omega-3 reduce inflammation and strengthen your immune system. Omega-3 can be found in foods like meat, fish, eggs, milk and milk products.

• Supplement vitamin A and D intake

Increasing the intake of both vitamins A and D is beneficial for thyroid function. Adding cod liver oil supplements to your diet is also greatly beneficial.

• Exercise

Moderate exercise is immensely helpful for thyroid patients. Choosing an exercise regime wisely is important. One can opt for yoga, brisk walks, Pilates, Zumba, swimming etc.

• Add saturated fats to your meals

There are numerous benefits of saturated fats when they come from the right sources. They are known to reduce inflammation and help in nourishing the body. Therefore, do not forget to include the right amount of butter, oil, and ghee in your diet.

• Eat fermented foods

Fermented foods contain millions of probiotics and nutrients that are essential for optimal thyroid function. Make yogurt and buttermilk a part of your daily dietary intake.

• Cut down on caffeine

If you wish to reduce the stress over your thyroid gland, cutting down your daily caffeine intake is helpful. It is advisable to drink no more than one cup of coffee in a day.

Following the above-mentioned health tips will not only ensure the optimum functioning of your thyroid gland but will also complement the thyroid treatment you are taking. Stay active in the Activ Living Community to find more details on nutrition and fitness.

Credits: Welcome Cure