March 26, 2024 | Healthy lifestyles, Prevention of Illness and Management of Chronic Conditions
Hearing loss, cataracts, back pain, and dementia are all health risks we anticipate as we grow older. Rarely discussed is thyroid health – despite its crucial role in maintaining overall well-being. The thyroid gland may be small, but its impact on our body is immense.
What is the thyroid?
The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system, a network of several glands that control hormones. It regulates and impacts several other functions within your body, including:
- The nervous system An underactive thyroid can cause depression, while an overactive one can create anxiety. Numbness, tingling, pain or a sense of burning can happen when the thyroid isn’t working properly.
- The digestive system The thyroid plays a role in how food moves through your body. If the thyroid is not working properly, diarrhea, bloating, malabsorption, constipation, chronic fatigue, and weight loss may occur.
- The cardiovascular system The thyroid helps control heart rate, as well as the amount of blood pumped and the strength with which it is pumped. Problems with the thyroid may lead to arrhythmias, vascular disease, and heart failure.
The prevalence of thyroid disorders increases with age and may contribute to decreased longevity. Individuals can live without a thyroid gland, but they will need to take hormone therapy for the rest of their lives.
How to support thyroid health
There are some simple changes to daily practices which will support the thyroid gland and promote better aging.
- Watch what you eat. Focus on whole foods, with about four servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Lightly cook cruciferous veggies like cauliflower, brussels sprouts, or cabbage before eating them. Dr. Ashita R Gupta from Mount Sanai Health System explained to Health, “Uncooked cruciferous vegetables contain natural chemicals called goitrogens (goiter producers) that can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis.” Avoid processed foods high in sugar, preservatives, dyes, or fat- and sugar-free substitutes. Remember: Iodine is a crucial component of thyroid hormones, while selenium and zinc aid thyroid function.
- Be aware of common toxins. Continued exposure to widespread toxins can eventually disrupt the entire endocrine system. Perfluorinated chemicals, often referred to as PFCs, are an example. They are water- and oil-repellent chemicals included in waterproof clothing, non-stick cookware, leather goods, and some carpeting. Triclosan, which is in some antibacterial soaps, has been found to alter hormone levels. Although it may be impossible to avoid all common toxins, trying to reduce exposure to them is important.
- Manage stress as much as possible. Chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid function. When stressed, the body slows the thyroid to control metabolism and conserve energy for the body’s overuse. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness to keep stress levels in check. Prioritizing relaxation and self-care can go a long way in supporting thyroid health.
Prioritizing thyroid health is essential for aging well and maintaining overall well-being. For more information on thyroid health and ways to support it, visit the American Thyroid Association.