Good Lifestyle

Your thyroid is a small butterfly -shaped gland located at the front of your neck. As an essential part of the endocrine system, he secretes hormones that help Check your metabolism , growth, weight, energy levels , cognitive function, and more. Of course, for most people, normal thyroid functions go unnoticed when things work smoothly - it is only when you develop a problem with your thyroid health that you become very aware of its many responsibilities.

According to the American Thyroid Association (ATA), 20 million Americans Suffering from a form of thyroid disease (although 60% of these people do not know that they have a problem). Experts say that you are more likely to develop a thyroid condition if you do not get enough iodine, a mineral found in your diet. Since salt is one of the most common sources of iodine, low-sodium diets can trigger thyroid problems in some people, they plan.

The good news? Doctors say you can still enjoy the abundant advantages of a low -salt diet without endangering you. Here is everything you need to know about reducing salt without triggering a thyroid problem - and how to help solve the damage you have already caused.

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It is difficult to overestimate how much a low sodium content can be beneficial for your heart health, especially if you are at the high risk of heart conditions. S. Adam Ramin , MD, a Certified urologist from the board of directors and medical director of urology cancer specialists in Los Angeles, says Better life How sodium can wreak havoc on your body.

"The problem is that when you eat too much salt, the kidneys react while keeping the water to dilute it," said Ramin. "It is a protective measure which helps to balance the chemical levels of the blood circulation, which is necessary to maintain our heart in working order. Over time, put so much stress on the kidneys can damage them and Heart muscle. "

A rich sodium diet can also increase your risk of range by other ailments. "The primary health effect associated with diets rich in sodium is an increase in blood pressure, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, gastric cancer, obesity, osteoporosis, menie disease and kidney disease" , note the World Health Organization (WHO).

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Although a lack of sodium does not harm your thyroid in itself, cutting salt means cutting an important source of iodine - and this could have a negative effect. In particular, low iodine levels can cause hypothyroidism, otherwise known as the subactive thyroid. It is at this point that the thyroid is unable to make enough thyroid hormones to meet the needs of your body.

The elderly can be at risk of particularly high risk of iodine deficiency, suggests research. A recent study published in the Journal of Nutritional Health and Food Science found that among a group of 189 women aged 51 and 86 years old, 60% were moderately deficient in iodine.

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If you want to reduce your sodium intake without lowering your iodine rate, there are several ways to get iodine in other areas of your diet. This can also help repair thyroid damage that has already occurred, although it is important to consult your doctor to find out if you also need drugs or other interventions. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

"There are many sources of iodine, such as fish, seafood, dairy products, eggs, enriched cereal products such as cereals, fruits and vegetables - much of which are higher in iodine that iodized salt, "explains Chrissy Arsenault , RDN, MBA, a dietitian recorded in Academy . She recommends eating cod, tuna, shrimp, eggs, cheese, yogurt and milk, which, according to her, is rich in mineral.

Those seeking to follow a low -salt diet can also benefit from the consultation Low sodium shopping list of the American Department of Health and Social Services, or this Recipes list with low sodium Posted by the Mayo Clinic.

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Vegans, vegetarians and people based on diets largely based on plants that restore their sodium levels can fight more than others to obtain enough iodine in their diet.

"The iodine content in food of plant origin is lower compared to that of animal origin due to a low concentration of iodine in the soil," explains a 2003 study in the newspaper Annals of nutrition and metabolism .

However, algae and nori are excellent sources of plants based on plants, and to a lesser extent, beans and prunes too. Iodine supplements can help you increase your levels.

In total, most adults should aim to obtain 150 mcg of iodine per day. Speak with a doctor or nutritionist if you eat a plant -based diet to make sure you get enough iodine to support a healthy thyroid function.

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Best Life offers the most up -to -date information for high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. Regarding the medication you take or any other health issue you have, always consult your health care provider directly.