Hypothyroidism — Causes, Signs & Diet

INTRODUCTION

Basically an endocrine system comprises of glands which produces hormones. These hormones play a key role in regulating the body functionality and various metabolic activities. For e.g.: Insulin is a hormone released by pancrease, and helps regulating blood glucose levels. Excess or deficiency of these hormones can cause imbalances and disorders. For diagnosis, your health expert may ask you to get your Thyroid Function Test (TFT) done. In case of abnormalities, medication and diet must be followed as per the doctors advice.

MECHANISM

Hypothalamus (a part of the brain) is responsible for the regulation and production of various hormones. TRH ( Thyrotroin Releasing Hormone) released by hypothalamus, stimulates the production of TSH ( Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) which is released by the pituitary gland. Pituitary gland is another small endocrine gland located at the base of hypothalamus. This hormone ( TSH) further regulates the production of thyroid hormones — T3 (Triiodothyronine) , T4 ( Thyroxine) which are produced by thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones are released into the blood and then transported to the target tissue. Let us look into a graphical representation to understand the above mechanism better.

TRH (produced by hypothalamus )— — — — — — — → TSH ( produced by pituitary gland) — — — — — — — →T3 & T4 ( produced by thyroid gland)

FUNCTIONS OF THYROID HORMONES

• BMR

Basal Metabolic Rate can be defined as the number of calories required when your body is at complete rest. Thyroid hormones help to increase BMR, and hence crucial for maintaining body weight.

• Nutrient Metabolism

Thyroid hormones plays a vital role in carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. They enhance metabolic cycles like glycolysis, gluconeogeneis and lipolysis which help to maintain optimum energy levels .

• Bone Growth

Apart from the macro nutrients, thyroid hormones are essential for uptake and metabolism of numerous vitamins and minerals. Hence they are important for bone maturation and muscle growth.

• Cardiac Health

They help to increase cardiac output, heart rate and systolic volume which are the key parameters of healthy heart functioning.

• Body Temperature

They increase oxygen consumption and body temperature which helps to keep your body warm. Studies show, some patients suffering from hypothyroidism are cold intolerant.

CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM

There are many reasons which can cause hypothyroidism. Listed below are few of the possible causes of hypothyroidism

• Impaired functioning or insufficient production of thyroid hormones
• Iodine deficiency
• Removal of thyroid gland — Thyroidectomy
• Autoimmune disease — in which immune system attacks the healthy cells of the body
• Drug mediated inhibition of thyroid hormone

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Thyroid hormones have a wide rage of functionality and targets almost all the tissues of the body. Hence we may observe numerous signs and symptoms but not mandatorily every patient exhibits all of them. Listed below are some of the commonly observed signs

• Weight gain or hypercholesterolemia
• Hair loss and dry hair
• Constipation or digestion disorders
• Poor memory, hoarseness of voice
• Muscle stiffness and pains

DIETARY MANAGEMENT

FIBRE

Include gluten free whole grains like oats, wheat, buckwheat, quinoa which are good source of fibre. Also 2 servings of fruits and vegetables everyday can add significant amount of fibre to your diet. Considerable amount of fibre intake will help you in weight management and keep you away from fatigue.

NOTE: Excess fibre intake can cause constipation and other ill effects.

CARBOHYDRATES AND SUGARS

Avoid taking simple sugars to cut down your calorie intake. Complex carbohydrates can enhance your digestion and help you cure constipation. Reduce the intake of tubers like, potato, sweet potato, beetroot, etc to cut down sugars.

PROTEIN

Try to add wide range of protein sources like diary products, poultry to include all the essential amino acids. Amino acids acts as co factors in metabolic activities and helps nutrient uptake.

FATS

Low fat intake is highly recommended to keep LDL low and enhance your cardiac health. Reduce the intake of processed food and limit the usage of cooking oil.

LIQUIDS

Intake of good amount of liquids like water or vegetable smoothie or soups can keep you hydrated and can also keep your gut healthy. Fluid intake can help you get rid of constipation and enhance your digestion ability.

FOODS TO BE AVOIDED

Goitrogens are the substances which interfere with the uptake of iodine. Deficiency of iodine can lead to the enlargement of thyroid gland and eventually cause impaired functioning of thyroid hormones.Therefore it is essential to avoid all those foods which contain goitrogens

• Soya Products like tofu, soya sauce, soybean oil, soya milk, etc
• Cruciferous Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, etc
• All the varieties of Millets like sorghum, finger millets, foxtail millets, pearl millets, etc. Studies show people having high intake of millets have high prevalence of hypothyroidism

Apart from the above dietary guidelines, it is essential to keep a check on your body weight parameters like BMR, WHR ( Waist Hip Ratio) and BMI to manage your weight. Everyday exercises and workouts can improve your cardiac health and reduce your fat weight. Consult your gym trainer or physiotherapist for effective workout plans.

NOTE: People diagnosed with Hypothyroidism should not take supplements or medication without consulting Endocrinologist/Doctor