Living with an underactive thyroid

NAIROBI: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid disease) is a disorder that comes up when the gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone.

The thyroid hormone performs different functions including regulation of metabolism, body temperature, nervous system, skin integrity, the menstrual cycle and respiration.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include great sensitivity to cold, weight gain with little appetite, dry skin, dry hair, changes in the menstrual cycle, constipation, depression, fatigue and slow heart rate.

Worldwide, the most common cause of hypothyroidism is inadequate iodine intake. In countries where iodine consumption is adequate, the most common cause is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, whereby the body’s antibodies attack the thyroid gland and cause it to produce less thyroid hormone. Other causes include thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine treatment and injury to the hypothalamus.

However, living with hypothyroidism does not have to be a problem since there is treatment that involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine. But, for this treatment to work well and reverse the symptoms of hypothyroidism, one has to be careful about their diet.

Intake of iodized salt is highly recommended as well as other rich sources of iodine such as sea vegetables, cod, cow milk, yoghurt, salmon and eggs. Avoid supplemental iodine since too much iodine might worsen the condition, especially if one’s hypothyroidism is caused by an autoimmune reaction.

One needs to avoid soy products since soy contains oestrogen which interferes with the body’s ability to use thyroid hormone.

For people with iodine deficiency, restriction of cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli will be beneficial as they block the thyroid’s ability to absorb iodine for use. However, cooking these vegetables helps to reduce this effect.

Avoid fatty foods since too much fat interferes with the thyroid’s ability to produce the hormone. Due to a slowed metabolism, weight gain might result, and so it is important to avoid empty calorie foods such as sugar and alcohol.

January is thyroid awareness month and our nutritionist will be at hand to answer any questions you have. Email: [email protected]