What is hyperthyroidism and why are the elderly more susceptible to it?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive, producing more hormones than the body needs. This leads to a series of symptoms such as rapid weight loss, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, shaking limbs, and persistent fatigue. In older adults, symptoms can progress silently but the consequences are more serious due to weak resistance and reduced metabolism.
According to Dr. Jason Cohen - endocrinologist at Mount Sinai Hospital (New York), "thyroidism in older adults can be confused with other aging diseases such as depression, dementia or diabetes. Therefore, treatment needs to go hand in hand with diet control".
In addition to drugs, choosing the right foods is an important part of soothing the functioning of the thyroid gland, supporting drug absorption and stabilizing hormones.
7 foods that the elderly should avoid if they have hyperthyroidism
cruciferous vegetables ( Cauliflower, broccoli, kale...): Contains goitrogen - which hinders the absorption of iodine, an essential element for the thyroid to function. Limit eating raw or only eat in moderation, cook thoroughly.
Soybeans and soy products (tofu, soy milk, miso...): Soybeans contain isoflavones, which can affect the absorption of thyroid medications".
Gluten (in wheat, pasta, spinach): Gluten can cause inflammation and affect digestion, especially in sensitive people. Research in the Journal of Experimental and Clinical Endocrinology & Diabetes shows that a gluten-free diet helps control the thyroid gland better in many patients.
Processed items (snacks, canned foods, frozen foods): The high sodium content in these items can cause the thyroid gland to be "overloaded". Cutting back on sodium is a must in the diet of people with hyperthyroidism.
Foods too high in fiber: Fiber aids digestion but consuming more (over 38g/day) can hinder drug absorption. People over 50 years old should control their fiber intake according to the recommendation of the US government.
Alcohol, beer: According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, alcohol can inhibit thyroid function and reduce treatment effectiveness. Eliminating alcohol from your diet is the right decision.
Dairy products (dairy, cheese, butter, yogurt...): Nutritionist lovneet Batra (Delhi) said that dairy products can disrupt hormones and cause difficulty absorbing calcium, especially for hyperthyroid patients.
