On thyroid awareness month, here is a guide to reduce risks and identify symptoms

The month of January is about creating awareness about the condition of the thyroid. About 13% of the age of 60 with Indians and 5% under the age of 19, by 2021, some thyroid related disorders are being diagnosed, it is a serious issue in the country that needs to be addressed. In November last year, actor Arjun Kapoor revealed that he is working with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the butterfly -shaped gland. Like him, other celebrities such as model Gigi Hadid, actor Sophia Vergara and more have also opened up about the disorder.

The thyroid is a gland located in front of the neck under the Lenux (aka voice box). It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate and other physical functions. As a result, disorders associated with thyroid hormone abnormalities have a widespread effect on health. There are two hormones triadothyronine (T3) and thyroxin (T4).

There are two main types of thyroid disorders: hyper and hypothyroid.

Hypothyroidism is due to the underactive thyroid gland, which is caused by autoimmune thyroid disease (thyroiditis of Hashimoto), thyroid gland surgery, radiation risk, some drugs, iodine deficiency, etc. Mumbai, says, “Symptoms may include weight gain, fatigue, hair fall, brittle nails, swelling, lethargy, depression, irregularity of menstruation, deficiency in libido, infertility, increase in blood cholesterol and reducing heart rate. . “

Hyperthyroidism is caused by a highly active thyroid gland and is caused by grave disease, toxic adenoma, toxic multibodular goiter, thyroiditis and even some drugs. Symptoms are unexplained weight loss, excessive sweating, coordination, shocks, shortness of breath, hair loss, irregular duration, infertility and anxiety.

Thyroid in pregnant women

The National Family Health Survey IV, taken in 2022, reported an increase of 2.9% in thyroid cases between 2019-2021. They found that it is more than 2% prevalent in women and grows with age.

Overview and small-set studies have shown that there is a link between women and hypo or hyperthyroidism. Dr. Shweta Mendiratta, Associate Clinical Director and Head of Unit 2 – Maternity and Gynecology Marngo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, says, “Undented hypothyroidism can give rise to risk, with preterum births, low birth weight, pre -birth, or developmental problems Bacht. ” She also says that hyperthyroidism “may increase the risk of abortion or heart failure in severe cases”. This is because the unborn child depends on the mother’s thyroid hormone during the first trimester for the development of the brain.

A study found that you can control thyroid behavior

According to a study published in the Cell Journal in 2024, the thyroid hormone most likely control behavior. Reportedly, depressed states can be marked at a low desire from low levels of this hormone, which may be less than the desire to go about the discovery of the testing mice. People with hypo or hyperthyroidism face psychiatric symptoms, including depression or frenzy.

Here are 5 ways to keep hypo- and hyper thyroidism under control.

• Following the drug: It is important to manage the level of thyroid hormone prescribed by your doctor as taking thyroid medicine. For hypothyroidism, levothyroxin (T4) is usually prescribed, while hyperthyroidism may require anti-thyroid drugs or radioactive iodine.
• Dietary changes: Eating a balanced diet that includes foods rich in iodine, selenium and zinc can help support the thyroid function. Avoiding foods that can trigger thyroid problems, such as soy and cruciferous vegetables, can also be beneficial.
• Regular exercise: Being engaged in regular physical activity can help improve thyroid function and overall health. Target for at least 30 minutes of medium-split exercise per day.
• Stress management: Chronic stress can increase thyroid problems. Practicing stress -reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing practice can help manage stress levels.
• Regular health check-up: Regular health check-up with your doctor can help monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust treatment plans as required.

If you are suffering from a thyroid disease then foods to add to your diet:

For hypothyroidism:

• Iodine-rich foods: iodized salt, seaweed, and dairy products can help support thyroid functions.
• Selenium -rich foods: Brazilian nuts, fish and turkey can help protect the thyroid gland from damage.
• Zinc -rich foods: Seep, beef and chicken can help support immune function and thyroid health.
• Omega -3 rich foods: Fatty fish, flaxseeds and chia seeds can help reduce inflammation and support thyroid function.
• Tyrosin-rich foods: Lanning meats, fish and eggs can help support thyroid hormone production.

For hyperthyroidism:

• High foods in fiber: Fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help slow the absorption of thyroid hormones.
• Antioxidant -rich foods: Foods containing berries, leafy greens, and other antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Low foods in iodine: Avoiding high foods in iodine, such as marine algae and iodized salt, can help reduce thyroid hormone production.
• Thyroid health supporting foods: Foods such as coconut oil, turmeric and ginger can help support thyroid health and reduce inflammation.
• Hydrating foods: High foods in water content, such as cucumbers and melons, can help with hygiene and overall health.

  Dr. AK Jhingan, AAP and your Thyroid author, and director of diabetes, thyroid, obesity, and input of endocrinology at BLK-Max Superspeciality Hospital New Delhi