Douglas Husbands which is a chiropractor and a clinical nutritionist in California defines the thyroid glands as a gland which is located below the Adam’s apple and it has a shape of a butterfly.
He explains that our metabolism is regulated by this thyroid. So, when hypothyroidism occurs which is an underactive condition of the thyroid, our body temperature, energy level, and rate at which body burns the calories are slowed down.
Whereas in the case of hyperthyroidism which is an overactive thyroid, all of this rates higher.
Mary Shomon, an author of Living Well With Hypothyroidism, claims that 59 million Americans suffer from hypothyroidism, and many of them do not get diagnosed.
Hypothyroidism is a common condition at both men and women older than 60 years old. Iodine deficiency is considered as the major cause of hypothyroidism.
The symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
- Depression
- Dry Hair and Skin
- Fatigue
- Heavier periods
- Forgetfulness
- Weight gain
- Mood swings
- Hoarseness and constipation
- Intolerance to cold
If you have noticed some of these symptoms, we recommend you to make a test for your thyroid hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. Then, you should start consuming synthetic thyroid hormones. Also, vitamins and minerals can be of great help for improving the thyroid function.
Selenium
Your body requires selenium in order to change the thyroid hormones into a dynamic structure. 200 mcg of selenium on a daily basis can improve the wellbeing of the thyroid.
Zinc
In order to work effectively, thyroid hormones also require zinc. Scientist conducted a study at the University of Massachusetts which proved that 4 months of treatment with 26.4 mg zinc on a daily bases enhance the thyroid hormone levels in zinc-insufficient individuals.
But it is recommended to take 10mg of zinc on a daily basis along with 1-2mg of copper.
Iodine
Iodine also has a part in the creation of thyroid hormones. But, it can be a danger component for hypothyroidism, due to the fact that it can exacerbate the existing conditions and irritate the thyroid.
You should take 150mcg of iodine on a daily basis. There are different sources for taking iodine including kelp, eggs, fish, and dairy. And if you are eating these foods, you should not take supplements because the excess amount of iodine can lead to some issues.
In order to keep your thyroid health you need to start consuming these important nutrients. A healthy thyroid is of great importance for maintaining your overall health.
