The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland found in the front and lower part of the neck.
This gland is very important for health as it produces hormones called thyroid, which control many functions of the human body.
It contributes, in fact, to regulate breathing, heartbeat, development of the nervous system, body temperature as well as body growth.
It also checks blood pressure, weight, blood cholesterol level, skin and hair.
Therefore, when the thyroid begins to not work as well as it should, the whole body is affected.
In Italy, over 6 million people suffer from thyroid disease.
In the last decade, not only the cases of thyroid gland cancer have increased, but also the autoimmune diseases of which the best known is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
However, although the numbers are growing, there are still many people who have never undergone a thyroid function check.
The most common thyroid dysfunctions are basically two, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Diseases which, if not recognized and treated adequately, can negatively affect everyday life and have serious consequences.
Some thyroid diseases are so disabling that they give the sufferer the right to a disability pension.
Those suffering from this common thyroid dysfunction must be very careful with these drugs and supplements which can be very harmful to health.
Thanks to a periodic specialist check-up and a simple blood test, the health of the thyroid gland is monitored.
In this way, it is possible to prevent thyroid disorders or, in any case, to treat them in time and successfully.
Nutrition, for example, is very important in the treatment of thyroid disorder.
People with this common thyroid dysfunction need to pay close attention to these medications and supplements as well as their diet.
When suffering from hyperthyroidism, certain foods rich in iodine such as oily fish, some seaweeds, shellfish, eggs and clams should be avoided or otherwise limited.
Remember that in subjects suffering from hyperthyroidism, thyroid dysfunction leads the gland to produce too many thyroid hormones.
Conversely, these foods should be increased if you have hypothyroidism.
In addition to having to limit the consumption of the above foods, those suffering from hyperthyroidism must pay particular attention to drugs and supplements.
The latter can interfere with thyroid function.
Specifically, those drugs and supplements that contain a high concentration of iodine can be very harmful to health.
In these cases, in addition to the overproduction of thyroid hormones, with the intake of these drugs or supplements, the dysfunction could worsen with even serious side effects.
Several cellulite and water retention supplements, as well as some memory and cognitive function supplements contain high concentrations of iodine.
It is therefore essential that you consult your specialist before taking any medications or supplements not prescribed by your doctor.