yoga for thyroid

What is thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, which is the process by which the body converts food into energy. The two main hormones produced by the thyroid are called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones control the body’s heart rate, body temperature, and metabolism. The thyroid also produces a hormone called calcitonin, which helps regulate the levels of calcium in the blood. When the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, it’s called hypothyroidism; when it produces too much, it’s called hyperthyroidism. Both conditions can be treated with medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

Yoga for thyroid

Yoga can be beneficial for people with thyroid disorders as it can help reduce stress and improve overall physical and mental well-being. Certain yoga poses, such as the shoulder stand and the fish pose, may help stimulate the thyroid gland and improve its function. It’s important to note that while yoga can be a helpful complementary therapy, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment of thyroid disorders. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, particularly if you have a medical condition.

shoulder stand	fish pose	Half-fish pose

Why thyroid happen?

There are several reasons why thyroid dysfunction may occur. Some of the most common causes include:

Autoimmune disorders: The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This condition causes the immune system to attack the thyroid gland, causing it to produce less hormones.

Hyperthyroidism: Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that can cause the thyroid gland to produce too much hormone, which leads to hyperthyroidism.

Iodine deficiency: Iodine is an essential mineral that is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. A deficiency of iodine in the diet can lead to an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) and hypothyroidism.

Radiation exposure: Exposure to radiation, such as from radiation therapy for cancer, can damage the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism.

Medication side effects: Some medications can affect the function of the thyroid gland, either by increasing or decreasing hormone production.

Other causes: other causes are surgery, injury, or certain genetic disorders.

It is important to note that in some cases, the cause of thyroid dysfunction may be unknown. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for thyroid dysfunction.

Food for thyroid

A healthy diet can be beneficial for people with thyroid disorders. Here are some foods that may be helpful for maintaining healthy thyroid function:

Leafy greens: Vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are high in antioxidants and other nutrients that support thyroid health.

Berries: Berries, particularly strawberries and blueberries, are high in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and flaxseed, are rich in healthy fats, minerals, and antioxidants that support thyroid function.

Foods high in zinc and selenium: These minerals are important for thyroid health and can be found in foods like oysters, and Brazil nuts.

Fiber-rich foods: A diet high in fiber can aid in digestion and weight management, which can be beneficial for people with hypothyroidism.

It’s important to note that some foods may interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication and should be avoided, such as soy products, cruciferous vegetables, and dietary fiber supplements. It’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a dietitian for personalized recommendations.