Nutritional protocol for hypothyroidism - Research Paper Example

Based on reliable clinical studies and experience of the medical experts on the field, he or she points out the array of nutritional factors that may affect thyroid functions as to lead the readers in making informed choices in their pursuit for a problem-free thyroid and in the end live healthily. Pathology and Etiology The thyroid gland which is located in front of the neck, is the particular body part central to the study of hypothyroidism. However, some cases are due to the malfunctions in the pituitary gland or in the hypothalamus.

The most common cause of hypothyroidism all over the world is iodine deficiency -- prevalent among impoverished nations. A number of women develop hypothyroidism after pregnancy, called postpartum thyroiditis (Lowrance 15). Other common causes include congenital or birth defects, radiation treatments targeted in the neck area which may damage the thyroid gland, radioactive iodine used in treating hyperactive thyroid and surgical operations on the thyroid gland (Koumourou 53). Certain substances such as amiodarone, lithium, methimazole, propylthiouracil and ultimately excessive amounts of radiation precipitate hypothyroidism.

People over 50 years old and mostly female have high-risk determinants to develop such disease (Pratt and Levy 22). Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are the hormones that account for the total thyroid hormones that flow in the bloodstream. These hormonal constituents maintain biological activities in the body that affect the metabolism of cells. When these processes are disrupted, then the anatomical regularities will also be disturbed that may lead to the following symptoms: sensitivity to cold, joint or muscle pain, fatigue and weakness, constipation, brittle hair or fingernails, pale and dry skin, weight gain, and depression.

If left untreated, late manifestations such as thickening of the skin, thinning of bodily hair, slow speech, hoarseness, and decreased sense of taste and smell will occur (Fenton 26-30). Myxedema coma, the most serious form of hypothyroidism though rare, can result in death for people who remain untreated. Dietary Restrictions Laboratory tests and medical examinations are required to know exactly what type of hormonal malfunctions or thyroid defects are suffered by the patient. Whether it is autoimmune thyroiditis or hypothalamic disease or just a severe case of iodine deficiency, diagnosis is needed in order to establish the most appropriate and efficacious nutritional protocol (Rubin 70).

With the exception of certain conditions, the treatment of hypothyroidism necessitates a life-long medical attention and care. The commonest procedure focuses on hormonal replacement using Levothyroxime, however, clinical studies and experience show that the dietary intake of those with hypothyroidism is also a determining factor in the alleviation or in the worsening of the disorder (Hueston 1718). Because hypothyroidism slows down the metabolic process, knowledge on what to eat and how to eat is pivotal for those who have the disease (Ain and Rosenthal 258).

Goitrogens, or foods containing enzymes which catapults the growth of goiter, block the absorption of iodine in the thyroid gland and may disable thyroid functions, should be religiously avoided. Soya, cassava,