As part of my profession, I have been acting on the principle that there is no disease, there are only patients, for years. There are situations where you have complaints that have been going on for a long time, and no one can diagnose them, and they are just dismissed as stress. The most common one I encounter is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which progresses insidiously and is unfortunately diagnosed late. We all have people in our families who we say have goiter, right? Is this genetic thyroid disease, which is the most common in our country, as innocent as it seems?
One in every 3 to 4 people in Turkey has thyroid disease. It is 4 times more common in women. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common genetic disease of the thyroid. In this disease, the body perceives the thyroid as a foreign substance and tries to destroy it. In fact, there is no microbial condition here, it is a result of the reaction of the person's immune system.
Forgetfulness, emotional changes, weakness, edema and swelling in the body, hoarseness, stomach digestive complaints and constipation are the most common complaints. Hair loss and changes in nail structure also attract attention.
The issue I especially want to underline here is insulin resistance and weight gain! As our insulin resistance increases, sweet cravings and edema in our body increase, as a result, our thyroid gland becomes increasingly lazy and a vicious cycle is entered.
Another reason for weight gain is that the food eaten sometimes does not cause weight gain due to the metabolism sometimes working slowly and sometimes too much, and sometimes it causes swelling in the body, as if drinking water helps. For this reason, weight control should be achieved with a regular nutrition program that suits our metabolism.
Diagnosis and Treatment Process in Hashimoto's
Blood tests are important when making the diagnosis. In addition to the routine thyroid function tests such as FT3, FT4 and TSH, Anti TPO and Anti TG laboratory values showing antibodies confirm the diagnosis. Thyroid USG is important in the differential diagnosis.
Vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D and zinc deficiency replacements of the patient. It improves the quality of life and protects against risks such as obesity, Alzheimer's, cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.
Thyroid hormone medication can be used when necessary, but However, it is also very important to replace the vitamin and mineral deficiencies that exist in the patient. Even by correcting vitamin B12 and D deficiency or adding selenium, the thyroid gland begins to work more efficiently and your reactive hypoglycemia can quickly improve, it can eliminate sweating, and your weight loss will accelerate.
Patients especially benefit from exercise and walking, both in terms of weight control and metabolism functioning.
Stress affects the entire system in our body, and of course, the attack on our thyroid with antibodies. Our thyroid gland is the orchestra conductor of our body and metabolism. It is very important how healthy and harmonious it works.
Nutrition is especially important in Hashimoto's!
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It is very important to eat non-iodized salt!
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Do not consume fats such as margarine. Choose olive oil!
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It is necessary to eat fish, and if not, take omega support!
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Vitamin A should be avoided because it is high in the blood in thyroid insufficiency!
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Exercise helps the thyroid gland work better!
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Check your weight, stay away from sugary and caffeinated foods!
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Do not forget that smoking reduces thyroid hormone! You should quit smoking!
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If you have a constipation problem, eat plenty of fiber.
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Definitely consume enough water for both constipation and edema!
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Broccoli, cabbage and radish reduce the functioning of the thyroid.
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Fluoride and chlorine (toothpaste / tap water) reduce thyroid hormone levels.
By the way Please don't forget to smile, breathe deeply, spend time with your loved ones and value yourself and your body more than you value your belongings. Remember that this body is entrusted to us..
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