World Thyroid Day- 6 Tips To Help You Lower Your Risk Of Hypothyroidism

World Thyroid Day (WTD), 25th May, is dedicated to the global thyroid community, to our patients, physicians, and researchers who are committed to the care of thyroid patients and the treatment of thyroid diseases. In this year of war in the middle of Europe, when our hearts are with the many victims, with all those who have lost loved ones and/or their homes, the ETA is moreover arranging to offer humanitarian aid and, for this purpose, we are in contact with our partners and other organizations.

Hypothyroidism and other types of thyroid disease are generally not preventable as they are, most of the time, autoimmune. But in cases not relating to genetic makeup, there are risk factors that can predispose one to hypothyroidism.

They are preventable though. The following are best practices to help keep a healthy thyroid:

# Manage Stress

Chronic stress can trigger thyroid dysfunction as excess cortisol from it prevents your thyroid from making more hormones.

On top of that, stress can worsen the condition’s symptoms if you already have an underactive thyroid. This is why it’s important to know how to manage stress to prevent thyroid problems.

Practice self-care to control stress. You can try these activities:

- Book reading
- Walking outside
- Taking a bath with essential oils
- Having a massage
- Performing meditation

It’s crucial to make time to relax each day. If it’s difficult for you to do so, start with two or three times a week and then increase the number of days as you go until you can finally make it to every day.

# Minimize Sugar Consumption

Too much sugar may trigger yeast overgrowth which has been linked to Hashimoto’s disease, the most common cause of hypothyroidism.

Aside from that, your thyroid is also responsible for regulating the metabolism of carbs. If there is low hormone production or central hypothyroidism, your body will have a difficult time balancing your blood sugar levels, leading to metabolic issues, weight gain, or fatigue.

# Avoid Gluten in Your Hypothyroidism Diet

Gluten is a type of protein present in grains like rye, barley, and wheat. It may cause damage to your gut lining, interrupting thyroid hormone activities and causing inflammation that can reach your thyroid.

The manufacturing of gluten includes bromide, which takes over iodine. You can ask your doctor how you can go gluten-free in your hypothyroidism diet plan to keep your thyroid healthy.

# Watch Out for Perchlorates

Perchlorates are a type of odorless and colorless salt used in making fireworks and explosives. They can contaminate water systems in the U.S.

High levels of this chemical can lower your TSH levels as it blocks your thyroid from absorbing iodine. Consider having your water tested for perchlorates.

# Quit Smoking

Smoking is never good for your health as it leaves various types of toxins in your body. The chemical thiocyanate in cigarettes can interfere with your thyroid’s absorption of iodine, blocking the production of thyroid hormones.

Quitting smoking may be difficult, so you might need your doctor’s involvement to help you with this. If you’re a non-smoker, it’s best to not try smoking at all.

# Perform a Thyroid Neck Check

A thyroid neck check is a test you can do at home to see if there are bumps in your thyroid area that may be a symptom of the condition.

To do the test, follow these steps:

- Use a mirror and hold it in your hand, reflecting the lower front area of your neck where your thyroid is.
- Tip your head back while you take a look at your neck in the mirror.
- Drink water and watch your neck closely as you swallow.
- Check if you see bulges in the area of your neck closer to your collarbone upon swallowing the water.
- If you see something, consult your doctor right away as it may indicate inflammation in your thyroid.