The thyroid is one of the largest endocrine glands. It consists of two butterfly-like lobes that are connected, located in the neck. The purpose is to control how quickly the body uses energy, makes protein, and controls how the body reacts to others hormones. In simple terms the thyroid coverts food into energy. Thyroid issues can range from harmless to severe. The overproduction of thyroid hormones can be fatal if not properly treated.
Many of the symptoms for thyroid disease are also common for aging and so it can be difficult to diagnose right away.
Some of these symptoms include:
- Low or high blood pressure
- Low body temperature
- Unusual pulse speed
- Horse voice
- Mood changes
- Extreme change in weight despite change in diet or exercise
- Extreme thirst or hunger
- Enlarged, sensitive lump in the neck
- Strange rhythm patterns in the heart
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Eye Puffiness
- Hair loss
- Swollen hands or feet
- Carpal tunnel
- Pains, aches, and stiffness in various joints
- Fatigue
- Depression
If you are having problems with low thyroid function, make a few changes to your diet to improve the balance. Some foods support your thyroid, while others could be hindering its function if you eat them too often. A few changes in your diet could make a big difference. This applies especially to vegetarians who substitute large quantities of soy products for meat. Certain food will lower or raise your thyroid hormone balance so talk to your doctor about what can be helpful for you or your loved one specifically. Then monitor the diet closely to see the improvement.
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