You might not even think that there is something that can affect thyroid function. Something we do on a daily basis. In this article, we have put together some tips on how to ensure normal thyroid function and thus overall health. However, please note that if you have health problems or already diagnosed thyroid diseases, you need to consult your doctor.
However, we would start with a description of what the thyroid gland actually is, what its function is and why we need it.
The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It plays an important role in regulating our body's metabolism and therefore in converting food into energy that we use.
The thyroid gland produces two main hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are like messengers that travel through the bloodstream to reach almost every cell in the body. These hormones regulate cell metabolism, which helps provide the energy the body needs. Therefore, their concentrations in our body vary depending on the state our body is in.
Thyroid function is essential for maintaining many bodily functions, including body temperature, heart rate, digestion, and calorie burning rate. When thyroid problems occur, it can lead to conditions such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), which can affect both your overall health and your metabolism.
However, this is a very simplistic explanation of thyroid function. If you have any concerns about your thyroid health, it is best to consult a doctor and possibly undergo an examination by an endocrinologist.
So let's continue with general tips that can help support thyroid health:
- Balanced diet: eat a varied and balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods. Focus on foods that are good sources of iodine, selenium, zinc and vitamin D, as these nutrients are important for thyroid function. Examples include seafood, seaweed, steamed nuts, lean meats, whole grains, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.
- Adequate iodine intake: iodine is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones. The general recommendation is to consume iodized salt, which is already common in stores. Adding iodine to salt will ensure sufficient intake of this substance. We can also include other foods rich in iodine, such as seaweed and seafood. However, be careful not to consume excessive amounts of iodine, as even this extreme can be detrimental to thyroid health. Direct iodine supplementation (in dietary supplements) is therefore not necessary.
- Stress management: chronic stress can affect thyroid function. Implement stress management techniques such as regular exercise, meditation, deep breathing exercises and take up hobbies in your free time to help regulate stress levels.
- Regular exercise: regular physical activity can support overall health, including thyroid function. Aim for a combination of aerobic exercises (such as brisk walking, jogging or cycling) and strength exercises (such as weight lifting) to maintain a healthy weight and musculature to support optimal metabolism.
- Make sure you get enough sleep: getting enough quality sleep every night is crucial for deep body regeneration. Aim for 7-8 hours of undisturbed sleep per night.
What should definitely be avoided
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect not only the function of the thyroid gland, but also other organs in our body.
Remember that these tips are general recommendations and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide you with personalized advice based on your specific health needs and circumstances
Instead of coffee or energy drink, try our Premium Bio Matcha which is a unique nutritional supplement. In a healthy way, you will boost your concentration, reduce cholesterol and accelerate fat burning.
