Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis, Symptoms, Diet and Supplementation

Thyroid diseases constitute a significant health problem in the modern world. The most common disorders are hypothyroidism and hypothyroidism combined with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Population studies estimate their prevalence at 2 to 6%, but there is also data indicating that thyroid diseases affect up to 10-20% of the global population.
Moreover, statistics show that the number of cases of these diseases is increasing year by year.

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by a deficiency of thyroid hormones or their insufficient function. Hypothyroidism is classified into primary, secondary, subclinical, and tertiary forms.

Diagnostics:

Hypothyroidism can manifest itself in various ways, depending on the classification, duration and development of the disease, as well as the functioning of the hormones.
In the advanced stage of hypothyroidism, the following symptoms may occur: weakness
and energy, hearing problems, depression, decreased intellectual performance, difficulty maintaining a healthy body weight and a feeling of increased coldness.

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Unexplained weight gain despite loss of appetite.

• Slowing of movements.

• Tendency to constipation.

• Constantly feeling cold, even on warm days.

• Excessive sleepiness.

• Menstrual disorders.

• General fatigability.

• Shortness of breath on exertion.

• Joint pain.

• Hoarse voice.

• Reduced memory and ability to concentrate.

• Low mood and depressive thoughts.

Basic tests to assess thyroid function include:

• Measurement of TSH in blood serum, which is a thyroid-stimulating hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, regulating the production of thyroid hormones.

• Measurement of serum FT3 - free T3 that is not bound to either thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TBPA) or thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG).

• Measurement of serum FT4 - free T4 that is not bound to thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG).

• Thyroid ultrasound.

Test results may vary in cases of hypothyroidism, depending on the type.

Diet therapy:

The influence of nutrition on the treatment of hypothyroidism is important due to the macro- and micronutrients it contains, which play a key role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Excessive amounts of adipose tissue can lead to oxidative stress, inflammatory and autoimmune processes, which are often associated with overweight and obesity
in the case of hypothyroidism. Therefore, an important aspect of diet therapy is to adapt the individual energy value of the nutritional plan to the patient's needs. However, drastic caloric restrictions can negatively affect
on thyroid function, leading to an increase in TSH levels.

In the case of hypothyroidism, it is worth ensuring adequate sources of protein, carbohydrates and fats that support the functioning of the body.

Here are some sample sources of each of these ingredients:

• Protein: Poultry (chicken, turkey), fish (salmon, tuna), eggs, nuts (e.g. almonds, walnuts), cottage cheese, natural yogurt, lentils, beans, chickpeas.

• Carbohydrates: whole grain cereals (e.g. whole grain bread, brown rice, groats), vegetables (e.g. sweet potatoes, carrots, beets), fruits (e.g. apples, berries, bananas), legumes (e.g. peas, beans, lentils), milk and dairy products (e.g. natural yogurt, milk).

• Fats: oily fish (salmon, mackerel), avocado, nuts and seeds (e.g. walnuts, linseed), olive oil.
  

Supplementation:

Supplementation may be useful in cases of hypothyroidism, especially if there are vitamin and mineral deficiencies and the diet does not meet the patient's individual needs for specific minerals and vitamins.

Recommended products:

• No. 1 Minerals Set - a set of minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the body and perfectly supporting the proper functioning of the thyroid gland

• No. 1 Thyro PROTECT - a supplement dedicated to the thyroid. Contains selenium, which supports thyroid function.

• No. 1 Omega VIT - it will have an excellent effect on inflammation in the body caused by improper functioning of the thyroid gland,

• N°1 Multi MG - support for the nervous system, which is also burdened by improper thyroid function,

• N°1 ProBiotic - may support gut health, which is important for hypothyroidism, improving nutrient absorption and modulating the immune system.
  

Summary
The role of diet in the proper functioning of the body is undeniable. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet provides adequate energy, supports health, and promotes longevity. Various diseases require adjusting the nutritional strategy in terms of caloric intake and macronutrient ratios.
and micronutrients. However, there are no universal dietary patterns that could be applied to all disease cases. Each patient requires an individualized approach to nutrition, taking into account their physical characteristics, health status, the presence of other diseases, and personal dietary preferences.

In the case of hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease, the goal of dietary therapy is to alleviate symptoms, improve the quality of life and maintain a healthy body weight,
while supporting pharmacological treatment. A properly tailored, nutritious diet allows the patient to achieve these dietary goals.

Bibliography:

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• Ihnatowicz P., Drywień M., Wątor P. et al. The importance of nutritional factors and dietary management of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Ann Agric Environ Med. 2019; 27(2):184-193

• Lachowicz K., Stachoń M., Pałkowska-Goździk E. Physiological aspects of dietary management in Hashimoto's disease. Cosmos. Problems of Biological Sciences. 2019; 68(2): 201-214

• Wouters H., Slagter SN, Muller Kobold AC et al. (2020): Epidemiology of thyroid disorders in the Lifelines Cohort Study (the Netherlands). PLoS One. 15(11).

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• Ihnatowicz P., Ptak E.: It's in Your Blood. Publisher: Publicat, Poznań 2017: 114-116