Today is World Thyroid Day, a gland found in the neck that regulates numerous body functions. Normally, thyroid function adapts to our needs, thanks to the control by another endocrine gland such as the pituitary gland, which is in the lower part of the brain and produces thyrotropin.
To keep the thyroid healthy, for the general population (including school-age children) it is recommended to ensure about 150 micrograms of iodine. This is an amount that can be easily obtained thanks to iodized salt, taking one level teaspoon of coffee a day.
Broccoli and cauliflower cause goiter
You can also get that recommended daily amount of iodine through food. For this, it is advisable to increase the consumption of sea fish, dairy products, eggs and canned fish and shellfish. Although it is true that you have to be careful with your diet and avoid excessive consumption of substances that are harmful to the thyroid.
Some foods even cause goiter or enlarged thyroid. Among them are cabbage, broccoli, soybeans, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, among others. Seaweeds also contain a high excess of iodine, so consuming more of them in your diet can cause the appearance of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Tobacco negatively influences the thyroid
Along with diet, tobacco use also has a negative influence on the thyroid. This is because there are goitrogenic substances in cigarette smoke. What these do is increase the risk of autoimmune thyroid diseases and decrease the response to treatments imposed by the medical or endocrine specialist.
People who suffer from thyroid problems are advised to have their thyroid function checked (especially in pregnant women or if there is a family history of thyroid or autoimmune diseases).
