Nutritionist for Endocrine Disorders
Our thyroid gland is required for our body's cells to function appropriately. When there is a thyroid problem, it can have a significant impact on your health. Both men and women can get the illness, albeit women are more likely to have it. So why do you need a Nutritionist for Endocrine Disorders?
According to The Australian Thyroid Foundation: “Thyroid Disorders affect 10 times more women than men, worldwide. Thyroid Disorders, especially hypothyroidism – or an underactive thyroid gland – become more common as we grow older. Iodine Deficiency has re-emerged in Australia and we can expect more people to suffer from swelling and enlargement of the thyroid gland, also known as a Goitre.”
According to the most recent Australian studies, approximately 14% of older Australians have a clinically relevant thyroid problem, with 4% having an undiagnosed thyroid disorder.
Research has shown roughly 50% of Australian children and a similar number of pregnant women are deficient in iodine. It has also been revealed that roughly 10% of pregnant women in Australia suffer from mild hypothyroidism (subclinical) as a result of autoimmune thyroid disease.
Thyroid cancer looks to be on the rise as well, with 2014 thyroid cancer studies revealing an increase of 84 percent in women and 48 percent in males over a 10 year period.
Thyroid disorders are classified into two types:
· Hypothyroidism - an underactive thyroid.
· Hyperthyroidism - an overactive thyroid.
What is the function of the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland can be found near the base of your neck (just below where the Adam's apple is in men). The thyroid gland produces two hormones:
· Thyroxine - T4
· Triiodothyronine - T3
Both are required for our body's cells to function normally.
Nutritionist for Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland becomes underactive and does not secrete adequate hormones. This causes cells and organs to slow down, having the opposite impact as hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism affects approximately 15 out of every 1,000 women and one out of every 1,000 males.
If your thyroid becomes underactive, you may have a variety of symptoms, including:
· exhaustion
· weight gain
· being melancholy
· being more sensitive to cold
· having dry skin and hair
· having muscle aches
These symptoms usually appear gradually and, because they are often similar to other illnesses, they may go unnoticed.
The immune system attacks and damages the thyroid gland in many cases of hypothyroidism. Treatments for an overactive thyroid or thyroid cancer can also cause damage to the gland. If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you will most likely be prescribed medication. You'll be given regular blood tests to monitor your hormone levels, and the dosage may need to be adjusted to fit your needs.
If you don't have clinical hypothyroidism or if your symptoms are considered minor, a Dr may not prescribe you medication.
How can a Nutritionist for Hypothyroid Disorders Assist?
If you have a thyroid condition, it's critical to be mindful of what you're eating and how it impacts your health. A nutritionist with thyroid health experience will work with you to create a nutritional plan that promotes thyroid health. They can also assist you if you are having difficulty managing your weight (which thyroid disorders might cause). They are also trained in prescribing the correct supplements for your personal health issues.
A nutritionist for hypothyroid disorders will also work very closely with your GP and any other medical specialist.
Nutritionist for Hyperthyroidism
Hormones regulate the metabolism of our cells, effectively regulating the rate at which our cells work. Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland becomes overactive and secretes an excessive amount of hormones. This stimulates our cells to function quicker than usual, which can have an influence on our organs, resulting in an elevated heart rate and greater activity in your intestines (diarrhoea).
In Australia, it is estimated that hyperthyroidism affects 3 in 1000 people.
Thyroid enlargement (overactive thyroid)
If your thyroid becomes overactive, it will release an excessive amount of hormones into your blood, causing you to experience the following symptoms:
· feeling tense, agitated, or angry
· having trouble sleeping
· feeling weary and weak
· being more sensitive to heat
· having an irregular or fast heartbeat
· losing weight
· diarrhoea and/or an increase in bowel movement frequency
· eye problems, such as swollen or red irritated eyes, and/or double vision
· shortness of breath, especially during exercise or severe activity
· infrequent or light periods, or periods that stop completely;
If you have hyperthyroidism, you may be referred for more tests to determine the cause. Graves' disease, lumps or nodules on the thyroid, and certain drugs can all cause your thyroid to become overactive.
Nutritionist for Graves' Disease
Graves' disease is regarded as the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Autoimmune disease is a hereditary illness that impairs the immune system by confusing good components in the body for hazardous and poisonous chemicals before attacking them. It can develop at any age.
According to NHS data, the illness is more common in women, particularly those between the ages of 20 and 40, and it is also more likely to develop among smokers.
The body produces antibodies that defend it from bacteria and infection in a healthy and normal immune system. In an autoimmune condition, such as Graves disease, the antibodies begin attacking healthy tissue rather than attacking the diseased tissue. The reason for this is uncertain, however in the case of Graves disease, it may result in Graves' ophthalmopathy, which causes the eyes to bulge out of their sockets, producing double vision and frequently leading to hyperthyroidism.
How can a Nutritionist for Hyperthyroid Disorders Assist?
If you have a thyroid condition, it's critical to be mindful of what you're eating and how it impacts your health. A nutritionist with thyroid health experience will work with you to create a nutritional plan that promotes thyroid health.
A nutritionist is trained to advise you on whether you need supplements and how much you should take in order to avoid interfering with your thyroid medication. A nutritionist for hyperthyroid disorders will also work very closely with your GP and any other medical specialist.
Is There A Thyroid Diet?
While there are no specific foods that can treat thyroid disorders, eating a varied and balanced diet can assist. It is best to consume a diet high protein, good fats and vegetables while avoiding excess sugar, grains and processed foods.
A diversified diet rich in calcium-rich foods and adequate vitamin D levels are advised.
If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid issue, there are some dietary factors to consider, which are listed below.
Calcium
If you've been prescribed medication to treat hypothyroidism, you should be aware that certain calcium-rich foods and supplements can interfere with its absorption. A four-hour interval between the two should be sufficient to ensure that there is no major impact on thyroid hormone levels.
Soy
Soya can interfere with thyroxine absorption, thus if you are taking thyroxine, you should avoid soy as much as possible. If you eat soy, you should wait as long as possible before taking thyroxine.
Iodine
The thyroid gland requires iodine for normal function, we can usually achieve the daily recommended dose by eating a varied diet.
If you have hypothyroidism, you should avoid consuming too much iodine because it can aggravate the illness. If you have hyperthyroidism, ingesting iodine might also be hazardous because it can counteract the benefits of any medication you're taking.
Iodine is necessary for the creation of thyroxine in persons who have a properly functioning thyroid. It is especially significant in pregnant women because it is required to ensure the development of a baby's brain during pregnancy and early life. People who use medication (replacement thyroxine) do not have a functioning thyroid to absorb iodine, hence iodine may not necessary.
Iron
Thyroxine absorption might also be hampered by iron supplements. If you are on thyroxine, your doctor may urge you to wait two hours before taking iron tablets. Check your multivitamins as well, as some contain iron.
How a Nutritionist for Endocrine Disorders Can Assist!
If you have a thyroid condition, it's critical to be mindful of what you're eating and how it impacts your health. Eating a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet will benefit your entire health, including your thyroid function.
A nutritionist for thyroid disorders will work with you to create a nutritional plan that promotes thyroid health. They can also assist you if you are having difficulty managing your weight (which thyroid disorders might cause) and other health issues you may be experiencing.
Should I stay away from brassicas?
Cabbage, broccoli, and swede are examples of brassicas or cruciferous vegetables. It has been suggested that when consumed in big quantities, thyroid function may suffer. However, the danger is modest as long as you consume these vegetables in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.
Seeking expert help is always suggested when dealing with diseases such as hypothyroidism, that’s why having a consultation with a nutritionist for Endocrine disorders can help you. They are trained to design a nutritional plan designed for your specific health requirements.
People with Thyroid Disorders may have an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Weight gain, as many of us are aware, increases the risk of heart disease. Those with an underactive thyroid may be at a higher risk of heart disease, not just because of difficulties from weight increase, but also because of additional variables caused by low thyroid hormone levels. Thyroid hormone deficiency raises blood pressure and raises cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Thyroid hormone levels can be normalised, which in turn can normalise cholesterol levels, therefore getting the right health advise is critical.
Those at risk should also consult a nutritionist for endocrine disorders for a nutritional plan which takes into account all of your health challenges and personal risk factors.
Thyroid issues and diabetes have been strongly linked.
Studies have found thyroid disorders and diabetes tend to coexist in patients, as both conditions involve a dysfunction of the endocrine system it is easy to see how they can both be linked.
Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) affect carbohydrate metabolism and glucose regulation. It is recommended you consult with a nutritionist for endocrine disorders to design a nutritional plan which will take into account any additional risks or conditions you may have.
Other things to consider when you have a Thyroid Disorder.
Weight control
Weight management can be challenging for many thyroid patients. An underactive thyroid is characterised by abnormal weight gain and difficulties reducing weight. Once your hormone production has been stabilised, you should find it easier to manage your weight. It is critical to focus on your health and eat nutritious foods to assist this.
You should follow the principles of a balanced diet, which includes protein, good fats, and a variety vegetables. You should also be reducing processed foods, sugar and grains.
Exercise
When it comes to thyroid health, it is critical to consider what lifestyle adjustments you may do to improve your overall health. Exercise is an important element in this. Weight gain, depression, and weariness can all result from an underactive thyroid. Physical activity can help with all of these problems.
Exercise is known to have a favourable influence on your metabolism, which is affected by thyroid disorders, in addition to helping to control symptoms. If exhaustion makes it difficult to exercise, it is best to begin with easy exercises such as walking or yoga. You may want to boost your activity levels even more as your treatment continues.
Stress
Thyroid Disorders can make you feel sluggish and easily overwhelmed. As a result, it is beneficial to manage your stress levels. Make an effort to include some type of relaxation in your everyday routine. Managing your stress levels can assist to alleviate depressive symptoms caused by your disease.
Nutritionist for Thyroid Disorders
Problems involving and influencing the thyroid also affect the body's metabolism, regulation, and the pace at which energy is burned. Weight swings that are unexpected and unexplained are key indicators of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. In certain circumstances, unstable weight might be caused by an insufficient dosage of medication, which is easily resolved by your GP. If not, more nutritional guidance from an expert, such as a nutritionist for thyroid disorders may be required.
In either case, a nutritionist for thyroid disorders will be able to work with you to develop a personalised nutrition and lifestyle plan as well as where appropriate, prescribe supplements, to help you not only maintain a healthy weight but optimise your overall health and wellbeing so you can become the happiest, healthiest version of you!
If you feel you may have a Thyroid disorder or have been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, and looking for more personalised health advise, book a consultation today to discuss your health goals!
Renee Bailey is a degree qualified Clinical Nutritionist - Clinical Nutrition is a researched and evidence-based health practice, working towards improved prevention, management, and treatment of chronic, complex and lifestyle-related conditions. Working with all medical and health professionals for a multidisciplinary, multi-system approach to healthcare.