Thyroid gland is an important organ that is found in front of the neck. Its role is to release and control thyroid hormones that is responsible in the regulation of the metabolism, a process that transforms food into energy that is used by the body for its daily activities.

There are several types of thyroid diseases. These include hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.  Hyperthyroidism is a condition when the thyroid gland produce excessive amount of thyroid hormone. This condition is usually caused by excessive iodine in the body and inflammation of the thyroid. Person who has hyperthyroidism may experience anxiety, irritability, nervousness, weight loss, goiter or enlarged thyroid gland and muscle weakness. Whereas hypothyroidism occurs when there is too little amount of thyroid hormone in the body. This is caused by iodine deficiency, non-functioning thyroid gland and inflammation. People with low thyroid hormone may experience fatigue, excessive weight gain and hoarse voice.

Furthermore, thyroid diseases may greatly affect pregnant women and their infants. Women with thyroid disease have difficulty in being pregnant and they also have a higher risk of miscarriage. They may also give birth to an infant with a low birth weight, poor cognitive performance and sometimes, with physical disabilities. These consequences would be a burden to children until they become adult. Thus, it is important to prevent having thyroid diseases before getting pregnant. Here are some important nutrients to maintain a healthy thyroid gland:

Iodine

It is an essential nutrient that is important in the production of thyroid hormones. It is important especially to pregnant woman as it helps in the development of the baby’s brain during pregnancy early life. Iodine can be found in seafoods such as shellfish, shrimps, seaweeds and others. Also, as stated in Kumainment no. 7, people must always remember to use iodized salt in cooking.

Selenium and Zinc

These nutrients help in activating thyroid hormones so it can be used by the body. Selenium is also an antioxidant which may help protect thyroid glands from free radicals which damage healthy cells. Selenium can be found in nuts, tuna, sardines, eggs and legumes. Where zinc-rich foods include shellfish, beef, chicken, and others.

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is an amino acid that helps in maintaining the health of thyroid gland. Tyrosine can be found in nuts, soya, milk and protein rich foods such as fish and meat.

Vitamin C

Just like Selenium, Vitamin C is also an antioxidant which prevents healthy cells from damage. Fruits such as oranges, apple, mango, and vegetables are rich in vitamin C and essential nutrients that also helps the body to regulate and function properly.

People can get these important nutrients through eating variety of foods. Thyroid diseases have long term impact to individuals especially children and pregnant women. Thus, it is important to keep the thyroid gland healthy. A healthy diet combined with regular physical activities would help people not just to ensure a healthy thyroid but also maintain a healthy and strong body. ###FVV