Almost 5% of American teens and adults have hypothyroidism, a condition that develops when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones help regulate your metabolism, energy levels, and overall bodily functions, and hypothyroidism can significantly impact your daily life.
Symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, depression, and muscle weakness are common, but the good news is that hypothyroidism is manageable with the right care. We offer advanced care for thyroid disorders at Endocrine Associates of West Village.
Along with thyroid medication to balance your hormone levels, incorporating specific lifestyle changes can also help you better manage hypothyroidism and improve your overall well-being. Here are five key lifestyle changes to consider.
A specific diet can’t cure hypothyroidism, but eating a variety of nutritious foods can support your thyroid function and overall health. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals to help optimize well-being, so aim to eat at least four servings each day.
Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, and adding it to your diet can help you manage hypothyroidism. Consider including foods like iodized salt, dairy products, and seafood in your diet, but avoid excessive iodine intake.
Selenium is another mineral that helps activate thyroid hormones. Good sources include Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and fish, and these foods can also be included in a thyroid-healthy diet.
Regular physical activity helps combat some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism and is a great way to promote better hormonal balance naturally. Exercise stimulates metabolism, improves mood, and enhances energy levels.
No matter your level of physical fitness, we recommend starting slowly. Try low-impact exercises like walking or swimming first, gradually increasing the intensity and duration as your stamina improves.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Consistency is key to seeing benefits for your hormone levels and overall health.
Consider adding strength training to your routine along with aerobic activities. Building muscle mass can boost your metabolism and help with weight management.
Stress might feel like an unavoidable part of life, but chronic stress can exacerbate hypothyroidism symptoms and interfere with thyroid function. Finding ways to manage stress can go a long way in helping you manage your condition.
Try practicing mindfulness, even if it's just for a few minutes a day. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Get at least seven hours of quality sleep each night. Prioritizing sleep helps regulate stress levels. Good sleep hygiene includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
Most people with hypothyroidism take medication to supplement their body with synthetic thyroid hormones to compensate for their underactive thyroid gland. Taking your thyroid medication correctly is the best way to minimize your symptoms and manage hypothyroidism.
Thyroid hormones are best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. Take your medication with water first thing in the morning and wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything else.
We also recommend avoiding certain foods and supplements. Calcium, iron supplements, and some foods can interfere with medication absorption, so you should take these at least four hours apart from your thyroid medication.
It’s also important to check your thyroid levels regularly to ensure your medication dose is appropriate. Your health needs can change over time, and getting regular blood work is the only way to know if we need to adjust your dose.
Finally, take time to educate yourself about hypothyroidism. Attend your routine check-ups, and be sure to ask any questions you have at your appointments. Our team is here to help you find a thyroid management plan that fits your lifestyle, and we can help you stay up-to-date on the latest treatments.
Living with hypothyroidism can present its challenges, but managing your symptoms is possible. Our team at Endocrine Associates of West Village is here to help you understand the condition and support you along the way.
To get more personalized advice on managing hypothyroidism, schedule a consultation. Call one of our offices in Brooklyn, Long Island City, or New York, New York, or submit an appointment request online now.
