Women are more likely to develop hypothyroidism. Sometimes our thyroid does not produce enough hamones, this condition is known as hypothyroidism.

Thyroid gland is the internal thermostat of our body. Shaped like a butterfly, located below the Adam's apple and weighing less than an ounce, it regulates all aspects of our metabolism-the rate at which our heart beats to the rate at which we burn calories.

Sometimes our thyroid does not produce enough hormones, this condition is known as hypothyroidism.

Facts:

Women are more likely to develop hypothyroidism, especially in the age group of 30-50. Hormonal imbalance triggers hypothyroidism. During pregnancy, postpartum and menopause women have upset hormones. In rare cases, hypothyroidism occurs in infants and children too. Early treatment ensures normal development. Teens with hypothyroidism look younger than their age.

Symptoms:

Fatigue Loss of appetite inability to tolerate cold. A slow heart rate Weight gain Painful periods Hair loss Depression.

Causes:

Poor diet Fluoride in the water. Excessive consumption of vegetable consumption of vegetable oils Pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables. Radiation from X-rays, Alcohol, and drugs are some of the aggravating factors. A condition called Hashimoto's disease is the most common cause of under active thyroid. In this disorder, the body in effect becomes allergic to thyroid hormone then it produces antibodies against its own thyroid tissue.

Dos:

Consume apricots, dates, egg yolks, potatoes, prunes and whole grains. Eat fish or chicken.

Take medications several hours apart from thyroid medications.

Eat these in moderation Cabbage, peaches, pear, radishes, spinach, turnips, mustard green, sprouts.

Avoid:

Refined flour, processed foods, including sugar. Fluoride even from tooth paste and tap water.

Chlorine from tap water do not take thyroid medication with calcium supplements.

Thyroid Self-Test:

You can test this. To test yourself for an under active thyroid, place a thermometer inside your arm and hold it there for fifteen minutes first thing in the morning for five days.

A temperature of 97.6F or lower may indicate an under active thyroid.