Thyroid Disorders & Symptoms
Disorder
Your thyroid produces too much hormone.
Common Causes:
Graves’ disease (autoimmune).
Thyroid nodules.
Excessive iodine.
Your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormone.
Common Causes:
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune).
Iodine deficiency.
Post-thyroid surgery or radiation.
Symptoms
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Weight loss (even with normal eating).
- Fast heartbeat or palpitations.
- Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness.
- Sweating & heat intolerance.
- Tremors (shaky hands).
- Trouble sleeping.
- Frequent bowel movements.
- Lighter or missed periods.
- Enlarged thyroid (goiter).
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Fatigue & low energy.
- Weight gain.
- Cold sensitivity.
- Dry skin, thinning hair.
- Depression or mood swings.
- Slow heart rate.
- Constipation.
- Heavy or irregular periods.
- Puffy face.
- Hoarseness.
Patient FAQ's on Thyroid
Often autoimmune (like Hashimoto’s or Graves’)
Can also be due to iodine imbalance, medications, stress, or thyroid surgery/radiation
Hypothyroidism: Usually lifelong, managed with daily meds
Hyperthyroidism: May be curable (e.g., with radioactive iodine or surgery), or managed long-term
Diet won’t cure thyroid issues, but:
Iodine is essential (too much or too little can be a problem)
Selenium, zinc, and B vitamins support thyroid health
Avoid excessive soy or raw cruciferous veggies in large amounts if you have hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism: Often causes weight gain
Hyperthyroidism: Often leads to weight loss
With treatment, weight may normalize — but lifestyle still plays a big role
Yes, but it needs careful management!
Thyroid hormone levels must be monitored closely during pregnancy for your health and the baby’s development
If dosed properly, levothyroxine (for hypo) usually has no side effects
Over- or under-dosing can cause symptoms (fatigue, palpitations, etc.)
Hyperthyroid meds can cause rash, liver issues, or low white blood cells (rare)
When stable: every 6–12 months
If adjusting meds or during pregnancy: every 4–6 weeks
Yes! Chronic stress can worsen autoimmune thyroid conditions and hormone balance
Lifestyle & Dietary Precautions
Lifestyle
Stress Management:
Chronic stress can disrupt thyroid function and worsen autoimmune conditions.
Try: yoga, meditation, journaling, deep breathing, or walking in nature.
Sleep:
Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep.
A consistent sleep schedule supports hormone balance.
Regular Exercise:
Boosts energy, mood, and metabolism (helpful for hypothyroidism).
Helps manage anxiety and muscle loss (helpful in hyperthyroidism).
Try low-impact cardio, strength training, and flexibility work.
Dietary
Recommended Foods:
For both Hypo & Hyperthyroidism (with care depending on the type):
- Iodine (in moderation): iodised salt, dairy, seaweed.
- Selenium-rich foods: Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, eggs.
- Zinc: shellfish, beef, legumes.
- Vitamin D: fatty fish, fortified milk, and sunlight exposure.
- Omega-3s: walnuts, flaxseed, salmon.
Foods to Limit or Avoid:
- For Hypothyroidism: Raw cruciferous vegetables in excess: broccoli, cabbage, kale.
- Soy products: tofu, soy milk.
Highly processed foods: cakes, fast food, sugary snacks. For hyperthyroidism, high-iodine foods include seaweed, iodised salt, and supplements.
- Caffeine: coffee, energy drinks