Thyroid disease is an umbrella term for conditions that arise when the thyroid gland produces either too much or too little thyroid hormone. These hormonal imbalances can significantly affect several metabolic processes.

The three main types of thyroid disease are:

Hypothyroidism: This is the most common form of thyroid disease, characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. In hypothyroidism, your body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slowed metabolism. Symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, sensitivity to colds, irregular menstrual periods, and constipation.

Hyperthyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland is overactive, producing excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. This hormonal surge speeds up the body’s metabolism, resulting in symptoms such as weight loss, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, heat intolerance, sweating, and frequent bowel movements.

Non-thyroidal Illness Syndrome (NTIS): This refers to specific changes in thyroid hormone levels that can happen during severe illnesses. These changes typically resolve once the underlying illness is treated and don’t indicate a primary thyroid disorder.

If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of thyroid problems, it’s paramount to consult your doctor. A simple blood test called a thyroid function test can measure the levels of thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, and T4) in your blood, providing a reliable diagnosis of thyroid disease.

Common symptoms indicating potential thyroid issues include:

• Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Changes in mood (like anxiety or depression)
• Changes in heart rate
• Dry skin and hair loss
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Menstrual irregularities
• Swelling in the neck (goiter)

Here’s a breakdown of some foods thyroid patients should not eat

1. Moderate Intake is Key: While it’s true that cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale) contain compounds called Goitrogens, cooking them generally minimizes their impact. Moderate consumption shouldn’t be an issue for most people with thyroid conditions.
2. Be Mindful if Iodine Deficient: If you have an iodine deficiency and hypothyroidism, it might be wise to talk to your doctor about the best way to include these vegetables in your diet.
3. Timing Matters: Calcium can interfere with the absorption of some thyroid medications. The solution is simply to separate taking thyroid medication and consuming calcium-rich foods like milk. A gap of a few hours is usually sufficient.

While medication is often a crucial aspect of treating thyroid disease, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle practices can significantly contribute to managing your condition. Here’s how you can work towards controlling your thyroid:

Diet for Thyroid Health:

1. Focus on Whole Foods: Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
2. Iodine Adequacy: Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production. Include iodine-rich foods in your diet, like iodized salt, seafood, dairy products, and eggs.
3. Selenium-Rich Foods: Selenium supports healthy thyroid function. Good sources include Brazil nuts, tuna, shrimp, beef, turkey, and chicken.
4. Know Your Goitrogens: Certain foods like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale) and soy products contain goitrogens. While moderate consumption is generally fine, talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
5. Stress Management: Chronic stress can disrupt thyroid function. Engage in relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
6. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can support thyroid health and reduce the risk of complications from thyroid issues. Aim for a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Studies suggest a significant burden of thyroid problems, with estimates suggesting around 42 million people in India suffer from some form of thyroid disease. This puts India among countries with a high prevalence. However, the data may not be as comprehensive as in some other countries due to variations in healthcare infrastructure across different regions.

The source for the statistic on the high prevalence of thyroid disorders in India is a research paper titled “Thyroid disorders in India: An epidemiological perspective”.

According to study A significant portion of cases may be undiagnosed, with some studies suggesting up to 3.47% of individuals with hypothyroidism being previously unaware

The statistic on undiagnosed thyroid cases is relevant to women in India because, as research suggests, women are more prone to thyroid disorders overall. This means a higher percentage of undiagnosed cases are likely to be women.  Studies in India have also shown a higher prevalence of hypothyroidism in women compared to men.  Therefore, the issue of undiagnosed cases is particularly concerning for Indian women, as they may be experiencing symptoms without realizing it and not receiving proper treatment.

The American Thyroid Association or the National Institutes of Health. These websites often have sections on thyroid disease and may discuss the higher prevalence in women.

Thyroid disease seems to affect Indian women similarly to women elsewhere but with a higher prevalence.  Studies suggest thyroid problems are more common in women globally, and India is no exception.  There might be some variations in specific types of thyroid disorders, but the underlying factors like hormonal imbalances tend to be similar.  The key difference for India might be the number of undiagnosed cases, with some estimates suggesting a significant portion remains unaware they have a thyroid problem.

Here’s a breakdown of the causes of thyroid problems in Indians, considering the factors you mentioned:

• Iodine Deficiency: This remains a concern in India, especially in inland areas. Iodine is crucial for thyroid hormone production, and deficiency can lead to goitre and hypothyroidism. While iodized salt is used more widely now, it may not always address historical deficiencies or those in remote regions.
• Autoimmune Disease:  Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that attacks the thyroid gland, is a common cause of hypothyroidism in India.  While the exact triggers are unknown, genetics and environmental factors might play a role.
• Other Factors: While less certain, your points about lifestyle may be contributing factors:
• Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance and potentially worsen thyroid issues.
• Diet: While directly “dirty” food might not be the main culprit, an unhealthy diet lacking essential nutrients could contribute.
• Sleep: Insufficient or irregular sleep can affect hormone regulation and might be a risk factor.

A proper diet plays a critical role in managing thyroid disease. By eating the right foods, avoiding dietary triggers, and adopting healthy lifestyle practices, you can improve your thyroid health and overall well-being.  It’s always advisable to consult a doctor and dietician for personalized guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications for your specific thyroid condition.