The thyroid gland is situated in the neck and this gland produces the hormone thyroxin. This hormone in converted outside the thyroid gland where it becomes activated and stimulates each cell of the body. Almost all of our systems and functions depend upon receiving adequate amounts of this hormone. The thyroid is essential in protein synthesis, growth, temperature regulation and oxygen consumption of cells. In case of depletion of thyroid the body begins to function poorly. Even the cholesterol levels shoot up dangerously. The thyroid levels may also increase and result in various problems. Both increase and decrease in thyroid is harmful to the body.
HYPOTHYROIDISM( An underactive thyroid )
Symptoms
• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Difficulty in concentration and fogging of brain
• Dry and itchy skin
• Thinning of hair
• Feeling cold
• Excessive weight gain
• Constipation and cramps
• More frequent periods
• Miscarriage and infertility
• Increased menstrual flow
Causes
Loss of tissue – Radioactive or surgical removal of thyroid tissue in hyperthyroidism can cause hypothyroidism.
Anti- thyroid antibodies – In people who have diabetes, arthritis or hepatitis these antibodies may decrease the production of thyroid hormones.
Medications – Some medicines like lithium may lead to hypothyroidism.
Congenital – Some people may have hypothyroidism since birth.
Defects in production of thyroid hormone – Due to some defects in the production of thyroid hormone the amount of TSH increases causing goiter which is seen as a swelling in front of the neck.
HYPERTHYROIDISM( An overactive thyroid )
Symptoms
• Thinning of the skin.
• Increased perspiration
• Nervousness and irritability.
• Muscular weakness.
• Insomnia and racing heart.
• Shaky hands and panic disorder.
• Weight loss.
• Frequent bowel movements.
• Less periods and lighter flow.
Causes
Thyroiditis – This is an inflammatory disorder of the thyroid gland and there is increased release of thyroid hormones. This is an inflammatory disorder of the thyroid gland and there is increased release of thyroid hormones.
Pituitary Adenoma – This tumor of the pituitary gland causes independent TSH production leading to overstimulation of the thyroid gland.
Grave’s disease – This occurs due to the abnormal stimulation of the thyroid gland by a material in the blood called TSI. This may lead to severe eye pain or double vision. It also causes raised or thickened skin on the feet.
Toxic Multinodular Goiter – This occurs when the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones all by itself.
Medications – This is caused by a heart medication called amiodarone.
YOGA FOR THYROID PROBLEMS In today’s modern world due to the advanced technology it has become easier to detect various ailments. Thyroid related problems can be easily diagnosed using the modern techniques. The two kinds of thyroid disorders can be diagnosed and given treatment accordingly.
Yoga has proved a boon for various ailments and thyroid related problems as well. There are various types of yoga that can help with thyroid problems. By stimulating the functions of the thyroid, pituitary, pineal and adrenal glands yoga normalizes them. Because of the way yoga works it can normalize these glands which in turn will help the body. Yoga stretches the neck and keeps it limber. It also tones and strengthens the nervous system. The thyroid gland is responsible for youthful appearance as it controls metabolism. Yoga stimulates the thyroid gland to work at its peak efficiency. By practicing yoga the pituitary gland gets stimulated and its function gets improved.
Some of the asanas like sarvangasana, Matsyasana, Uttanapadasana, Naukasana etc. prove beneficial in stimulating the thyroid gland. These asanas exercise the thyroid gland and it functions properly. Pranayam or breathing techniques in yoga also helps in stimulating the thyroid gland.
In yoga nature is the ultimate cure. Medication only accelerates the healing process. But curing through yoga can sometimes be at a slow pace. In yoga therapy the entire human body should be first studied. The origin and development of the ailment and the parts it has affected should be studied. The disease should be removed from the root. This is the main aim of yoga therapy.
Yoga asanas make your body flexible, brings alertness to the mind and soothes the nerves. It also relaxes the brain and maintains an emotional balance. Regular practice also improves self-confidence and will power. We become aware of each part of the body. Yoga helps gain knowledge on how to control the body with the brain. Energy from the brain is transferred to various parts of the body in the form of vital, healing energy. The brain becomes calm and passive and accepts and subdues the pain instead of fighting it. Thus the energy heals.
The ultimate aim is to teach the body to come in harmony with the brain. Various systems of the body is worked out. Perseverance is the essence of yoga. Due to overwork and stress the natural resistance of the body diminishes. Our immune system is affected and we are prone to many diseases. Through yoga both mind and body is relaxed and immune system is developed.
ROLE OF DIET IN THYROID DISORDER The role of diet can not be forgotten in curing any disease. Food has to be considered as a medicine. As it has healing powers. For people with thyroid disorders foods rich in vitamin A like yellow and green vegetables and carrots should be taken. Also iodine rich foods should be taken in plenty. Food rich in zinc and copper like oats, dried beans, spinach, nuts and raisins should be taken. Mixed fruit juices are also good. Healing foods for thyroid include sprouts, salads, raw vegetables and grains. Refined foods, white flour, saturated fats and sugars should be avoided.
A possible reason in increase in thyroid disease is the high prevalence of auto-immune disease in today’s world. Immunity in general is assaulted by toxic chemicals in water, food and air. Proper exercise and proper diet helps keeping thyroid problems away and also cures it.
According to yogacharya Vijayan Raman, health should be the top priority in our day to day life. Only one who has a healthy mind, body and soul can enjoy life in the true sense.
Note: Yoga should be practiced under the strict guidance of an expert yoga guru only.
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