08/08/2026
🦋 Understanding Thyroid Problems
“Thyroid” is not the name of a disease; it is the name of a gland located in the neck. Problems can occur when this gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone.
1. What is the thyroid?
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. It mainly produces two hormones: T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine).
These hormones influence many functions in the body, including:
Energy use and metabolism
Heart rate
Body temperature
Digestion
Body weight
Brain and other organ functions
2. The two main types of thyroid problems
Hypothyroidism
In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone.
Common symptoms include:
Tiredness and lack of energy
Weight gain
Increased sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Dry skin
Hair loss
Puffy-looking face
Muscle or joint pain
Difficulty concentrating
Low mood or depression
Slow heartbeat
Changes in menstrual periods in women
Hyperthyroidism
In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
Common symptoms include:
Weight loss
Rapid or pounding heartbeat
Excessive sweating
Difficulty tolerating heat
Trembling hands
Anxiety or irritability
Difficulty sleeping
Increased appetite
Frequent bowel movements
Muscle weakness
Eye-related changes, particularly in Graves’ disease
3. What can happen if thyroid problems are not treated?
Ignoring thyroid problems can lead to complications.
With hypothyroidism, complications may include:
Increased cholesterol
Heart-related problems
Fertility problems
With hyperthyroidism, complications may include:
Palpitations
Abnormal heart rhythms
Weakening of the bones
Therefore, even if you have symptoms, do not diagnose yourself. Blood tests and medical evaluation are important.
4. What tests are done?
Usually, the first test is TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone).
Depending on the situation, a doctor may also recommend:
Free T4
Sometimes T3
Thyroid antibody tests
Example
Suppose Mr. Ramana frequently feels tired, feels unusually cold, has gained weight, and has constipation.
A doctor may recommend a TSH test. If TSH is high and Free T4 is low, it may indicate hypothyroidism. However, the final diagnosis should be made by a qualified doctor.
5. What should you eat?
People with thyroid problems can generally eat a balanced and nutritious diet, including:
Vegetables
Leafy greens
Fruits
Pulses, chickpeas and green gram
Eggs
Fish/meat, for those who eat them
Milk and curd/yogurt
Whole grains
Nuts and seeds in moderation
Iodine
Iodine is necessary for producing thyroid hormones. Iodized salt is generally sufficient for most people.
Do not take additional iodine tablets or supplements without medical advice. Too much iodine can worsen certain thyroid conditions.
6. Should cabbage, cauliflower and soy be avoided?
This is a common misconception.
In normal amounts, vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli can generally be eaten. There is usually no need to completely avoid them.
People taking levothyroxine, particularly those who consume soy or soy products, should follow their doctor's advice about timing because soy can affect the absorption of the medicine.
7. How should thyroid medicines be taken?
Levothyroxine is commonly prescribed for hypothyroidism.
It is generally recommended to take it:
At the same time every day
Usually on an empty stomach
With water
Taking food, calcium or iron supplements too soon after levothyroxine can reduce its absorption. Therefore, follow the specific instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist.
After starting the medicine or changing the dose, your doctor may recommend a TSH test after an appropriate interval to check whether the dose is correct.
8. Most important things to remember
Thyroid problems cannot usually be “cured” by food alone.
Proper diagnosis, prescribed medication when needed, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and periodic blood tests can help keep thyroid problems under control.
Do not start, stop, or change thyroid medication or supplements without consulting your doctor
