Thyroid gland is one of the most important organs of the of the body as it produces hormones (Triiodothyronine and thyroxine-T3 and T4) that are responsible for metabolism, temperature regulation, reproductive health and mental health.

Like all the other glands in the body, Thyroid gland is also regulated by the Hypothalamo-Pituitary endocrine (HPE) axis. Hypothalamus and the pituitary, the master gland recognize the need of the thyroid hormones in the body and accordingly produces the Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) which stimulates the gland to release the T3 and T4 hormones.

Hypothyroidism is one of the highly prevalent endocrinal disorders across the globe and is impacting various aspects of healthy living. It is the reduced activity of the thyroid gland leading to reduced production of the thyroid hormones and in turn increased production of Thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH) from the pituitary gland.

So, what causes this reduced functioning of the gland?

1. Autoimmune thyroiditis usually called the Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
2. Radiation therapy to the neck and throat region
3. Iodine deficiency
4. Over responsiveness to a hyperthyroidism treatment
5. Certain medications
6. Ineffective stress management techniques and overthinking
7. Unhealthy lifestyle

How do you recognize hypothyroidism?

There are various symptoms of Hypothyroidism through which you can recognize it.

They are as below

• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Weight gain
• Puffy face
• Hoarseness
• Muscle weakness
• Elevated blood cholesterol level
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
• Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
• Pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints
• Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
• Thinning hair
• Slower heart rate
• Depression
• Impaired memory

How do you prevent Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism has become very common these days mainly due to the lifestyle that we are leading these days. Because of the unhealthy lifestyle, wrong food habits, intense work life and irregular sleep habits, the load on the thyroid gland is so high that it under constant pressure of producing the hormones. Therefore, the best way to prevent Thyroid issues is to lead a healthy & natural lifestyle following nature’s principles of eating seasonal food at regular timing, effectively managing our stressors and following healthy sleeping habits.

Some tips for Natural & Healthy living are as below.

1. Maintaining healthy weight
2. Adequate SUN exposure
3. Balanced, nutritious and organic food intake
4. Avoiding late night sleep. Early to bed and early to rise is the key….
5. Adequate physical activity and Yoga practice
6. Singing is very effective to prevent development of thyroid issues
7. Spending ‘Me time’ everyday involving in activities that rejuvenate the body and mind. 

Role of Acupuncture in treating Hypothyroidism

Acupuncture, based on traditional Chinese medicine reduces the burden on the thyroid gland by giving our body an opportunity to correct the imbalances created within due to unhealthy lifestyle and stress.

The following points is how Acupuncture therapy helps in managing hypothyroidism

1. Improves circulation to the thyroid gland and nourishes the gland
2. Calms the mind and reduces the overthinking
3. Improves metabolism
4. Aids detoxification
5. Brings down the low-grade inflammation in the body

Some of the most important points for management of Hypothyroidism are

Dr. Deepashree S, BNYS, (MSCCFT), Consultant, Anandamaya Wellness Center