Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism — is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which regulate metabolism, thermoregulation, and energy balance.

With their deficiency, all processes in the body slow down — from brain function to digestion and circulation.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

The main factors causing a decrease in thyroid function:

• autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s disease), in which the immune system destroys thyroid cells;
• removal of the thyroid gland or treatment with radioactive iodine for hyperthyroidism;
• iodine deficiency in the diet, especially in regions with low iodine content in water and soil;
• the intake of certain medications (amiodarone, lithium, interferons, glucocorticoids);
• stress, chronic inflammation, selenium and zinc deficiency, which disrupt the conversion of T4 to active T3.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Symptoms of hypothyroidism develop gradually and often go unnoticed. Characteristic signs include:

• constant fatigue, drowsiness, apathy;
• weight gain with normal diet;
• intolerance to cold, chilliness;
• dry skin, brittle hair and nails, hair loss on the outer third of the eyebrows;
• swelling, especially of the face and eyelids;
• slowed speech, pulse, constipation;
• depression, decreased memory and concentration;
• in women — menstrual cycle disturbances and infertility.

Diagnosis

To confirm the diagnosis, blood tests are performed:

• thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) — elevated;
• free T4 — decreased;
• antibodies to thyroid peroxidase (TPO antibodies) — often elevated in Hashimoto’s disease.

Additionally, an ultrasound of the thyroid gland and assessment of selenium, zinc, and iodine levels in the body are conducted.

Treatment

The main method — is replacement therapy with levothyroxine, the dosage of which is tailored individually. The goal of treatment — is to maintain TSH within normal limits and eliminate symptoms.

It is important to regularly monitor hormone levels (6–12 weeks after starting therapy, then 1–2 times a year).

Nutrition and Lifestyle in Hypothyroidism

Dietary correction helps reduce the load on the gland and improve metabolism:

• include sources of iodine in the diet (seaweed, cod, eggs, iodized salt);
• get enough selenium (Brazil nuts, sardines, liver, eggs);
• consume foods rich in zinc (beef, oysters, pumpkin seeds);
• limit soy products, cabbage, and millet if they make up the bulk of the diet;
• avoid excess gluten and sugar, as they exacerbate inflammation;
• monitor levels of vitamins A, D, B12, and iron — their deficiency exacerbates symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism — is a chronic but manageable condition. With timely diagnosis, proper treatment, and a balanced diet, it is possible to restore energy, improve mood, metabolism, and quality of life.