Thyroid Treatment

How can thyroid be treated with diet and exercises?
(March 13, 2009)

Thyroid is an endocrine gland. Diseases associated with the thyroid gland are nodules, thyroid eye disease, thyroid cancer and goiter. Goiter is one of the common forms of thyroid complications, which is accompanied by enlargement of the gland. Thyroid disease is caused due to improper replacement of thyroid replacement, iodine deficiency disorder, and abnormalities in the thyroid gland. Symptoms of thyroid problems are abnormal menstrual cycle, weight loss or gain, memory loss, deafness, poor concentration, high appetite levels, fatigue, constipations, muscle cramps and so on.

Foods containing goitrogens interfere or inhibit the effectiveness and functioning of the thyroid gland. Cruciferous vegetables and soy associated foods affect the thyroid hormone synthesis. Cabbage, mustard, broccoli, turnips and cauliflower belong to the group of cruciferous vegetables. Certain other foods that contain goitrogenic substances are spinach, peach, millets, strawberries, tofu, peanuts and radish.

Iodine in supplements, metabolic boosters and multivitamins are not recommended for such individuals. Shell fish, processed foods, red food dyes and dairy products are foods that hinder the absorption of iodine. Include lean meats, fruits, vegetables, dairy products and nuts for a balance in the diet. Certain antioxidants such as vitamins E, C and A, selenium and zinc help in the elimination of free radicals. Calcium supplements are recommended due to the decrease in bone mass.

Exercise is an important measure to prevent further complications. A forty minute exercise session, about thrice a week proves beneficial. Losing the extra pounds makes one healthy by improving metabolism. It also reduces insulin levels. Any activity, such as biking, walking, rowing and dancing is useful. Spend the majority of time of the workout session on pushups, leg raises and lunges for less time. These exercises do not call for any sophisticated equipment.

Leg raises help the lower back and the abdomen, whereas pushups provide benefits to the shoulders, back and upper arm. Lunges make the legs strong and firm. Leg lunges are performed by standing with feet apart and hands on the sides. Put your left leg behind, as you take a deep breath. Look straight ahead and gradually bring the left leg to the front, with an exhalation. For a push up, lie flat on the floor. Lift your body from the floor, as you exhale. Inhale, as you lower the body. Leg raise is done by lying flat on the back. Lift your legs and head, as you exhale. Lower them during inhalation and rest. Repeat this cycle, for a few times.