6 Habits To Improve Thyroid Function
Proper thyroid function is an essential factor for optimal health. In addition to regulating hormonal processes, the thyroid plays an important role in terms of metabolism, mood and body weight. Therefore, it is important to adopt habits to improve thyroid function.
Although we often ignore it, this small organ, located in the front of the neck, secretes hormones that regulate the activity of the tissues and organs that make up the main systems of the human body.
Among other things, the thyroid contributes to protein synthesis, blood circulation and oxygenation. At the same time, it fulfills many other functions that ensure an optimal quality of life.
The problem is that due to genetic inheritance and unhealthy habits, various diseases affecting the thyroid can be triggered. As a result, many organs begin to experience difficulties and, over time, the disease becomes chronic.
For this reason, it is advisable to adopt certain habits to improve thyroid function naturally. Only then will we be able to have a healthy life.
1. Learn how to deal with stress
Inadequate stress management is one of the factors that cause thyroid imbalances.
Although there does not appear to be any link between stress and this gland, continued exposure to negative emotions affects the body’s ability to use thyroid hormones. This phenomenon is based on increased production of cortisol, a chemical that prevents the penetration of thyroid hormones into cells.
2. Use coconut oil
The fatty acids in coconut oil are an effective supplement for improving the function of this gland and its hormones. These substances optimize the functioning of the thyroid in metabolic activities.
Due to the significant content of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, coconut oil counteracts some of the negative effects of thyroid imbalances.
3. Increasing iodine intake, on the list of habits to improve thyroid function
Low iodine intake is one of the main causes of insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones, a disease called hypothyroidism. The human body does not have the ability to produce this nutrient on its own, which is why we need to get iodine through healthy foods.
The most recommended options are:
- Sea fruits
- Cold water fish
- Cheese
- eggs
- Table salt
- blueberries
- Seaweed
- Organic strawberries
- Organic yogurt
- Potatoes
4. Eat zinc foods
Zinc deficiency can trigger two main thyroid diseases: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. If the body does not have this nutrient in sufficient quantities, imbalances in the activity of thyroid hormones occur, causing a series of unwanted reactions in the vital systems of the body.
Although we can take zinc supplements, it is advisable to get this mineral from foods that can improve thyroid function, such as:
- Seafood and fish
- Lean meat
- Pork
- Chicken meat
- Spinach
- Laminated nuts
- seeds
- Dark chocolate
5. Regular exercise, among the most recommended habits for improving thyroid function
One of the lesser known benefits of exercise is that it can improve thyroid function. Physical activity is useful in treating both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism because it regulates the activity of thyroid hormones and balances metabolism.
Among other things, exercise improves mood and helps you maintain an optimal level of physical and mental energy.
- We advise you to dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to cardiovascular exercises or combined training.
6. Make sure you meet your daily magnesium needs
Magnesium is another essential mineral useful for protecting thyroid health. Unfortunately, it also falls into the category of nutrients that are difficult to absorb. So, although many foods contain it, a large number of people have a magnesium deficiency.
The thyroid needs magnesium to convert iodine to hormones. In addition, the proper absorption of magnesium makes it possible to maintain optimal metabolic and hormonal health.
There are various magnesium supplements and lotions on the market, but we can also obtain this mineral by consuming:
- Avocado
- Eggs
- Spinach
- Raisins
- Maize
- bananas
- Dried herbs
- Bran
- Cocoa powder
- Laminated nuts
- Seeds (pumpkin, flax, sunflower)
Are you prone to thyroid disease? Whether your answer to this question is yes or no, make sure you adopt all the habits to improve thyroid function presented in this article. Also, if you want this gland to work properly, opt for a healthier lifestyle.
Don’t forget to have a regular medical check-up so that you can catch any problems in time.
