Somewhere at the base of the neck, just wrapped around the esophagus, is a curious, butterfly shaped organ called the ‘Thyroid Gland’. Of course, you don’t get to see it when you look at someone’s neck, it’s not a necktie. It is a vital part of the body’s endocrine system – a body system that controls metabolic functions. Using iodine extracted from the food we eat; the thyroid produces the hormones ‘thyroxine (T4)’ and ‘triiodothyronine (T3)’ which regulate such vital functions as:
- Muscle strength
- Body temperature
- Cholesterol levels
- Weight
- Breathing
- Heart rate
- Nervous system
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland (Goiter)
- Muscle weakness
- Weight gain
- Hair and skin changes (dryness)
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Heart problems
- Mental health complications such as depression
- Heavier than normal menstrual flow
- Complications with pregnancy
- Confusion and loss of consciousness
- Anemia
- Sexual dysfunction
- Gluten and grain rich diet
- Dairy rich diet
- High glucose diets (foods with high carbohydrates)
- Synthetic or added sugars
- Highly processed and fried foods
- Alcohol and Cigarettes
- Starchy and non-starchy vegetables like; zucchini, asparagus, peas, sweet potatoes, artichoke, carrots, peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, cucumbers, turnips, garlic, onions, celery, cauliflower, spinach, beets, etc
- Healthy fats like; avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, full-fat yogurt, etc.
- Animal proteins like; salmon, cod, turkey, shrimps, eggs, etc
- Gluten free grains like; brown rice, brown rice pasta, quinoa, rolled oats, etc
- Dairy substitutes like coconut milk, almond milk, unsweetened full-fat yogurt, etc
- Spices and herbs like turmeric, rosemary, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, paprika, cinnamon, basil and lemon juice
- Fruits, seeds and nuts
- Lentils and beans
- Plenty of water