Thinking About Thyroid Health
By Brandi Goodman
Thyroid Awareness Month encourages people to learn more about thyroid health. A large percentage of people with a related disease aren't even aware they have one. Whether you suffer from an underactive or overactive thyroid there are things you can do to help yourself.
Get More Exercise
Exercise is good for health in many ways. If you perform high-intensity and aerobic exercises regularly, such as hiking, swimming, or running, you can help boost your thyroid. Hormone levels can be increased so your metabolism is then increased. A strong working metabolism helps you burn calories better so you do not experience such a severe weight gain.
Eat Helpful Nutrients
Certain nutrients will be more helpful for thyroid issues. If you have hypothyroidism, for example, then getting enough iodine will be important. It helps with hormone production. Eggs, dairy products, and fish can be good sources. Fish and eggs are also good sources of selenium, another helpful nutrients for activating thyroid hormones.
Avoid Certain Foods
Other nutrients and food options are going to weaken the thyroid and make your problems worse. Soy foods, starchy plants, peanuts, and even green vegetables may be harmful. They contain goitrogens compounds that can interfere with the function of the thyroid.
It's also wise to avoid eating processed foods and junk. Cookies, cake, and hot dogs are just a few examples of processed options. These high-calorie foods will be difficult for your metabolism to process and could result in rapid weight gain.
Start a Sleep Routine
Poor sleep can also cause weight gain in anyone, especially those with a poor functioning thyroid. You should start a sleep routine to help yourself get adequate rest each night. It's best to aim for at least 7 or 8 hours of sleep. Avoid being on your phone or watching television right before bed. The light can keep you awake. You also want to set a quiet, dark environment that doesn't allow light or noise to interfere with your rest. Dark curtains can help.
The hormones the thyroid produces affect all cells. Heart rate, body temperature, protein production, and more get impacted by the thyroid. Do what you can to improve your thyroid health and learn whether or not you have a related illness so you can get on top of your symptoms.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.