Health > 15 Myths of Thyroid
22nd Aug 2022
Common Myths Of Thyroid
Health

15 Myths of Thyroid

Thethyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ at the front of your neck, which plays a critical role in producing the thyroid hormone. This hormone is responsible for all major bodily processes. According to endocrinologists, handling a thyroid condition can be complicated, and several common misconceptions are linked to thyroid treatment and disease. Just exercising alone won’t fix your thyroid problems. Below are the most common myths associated with this gland.

The most common thyroid myths:

1. You will have to take thyroid medication for the rest of your life

This misconception is simply untrue and will depend on your overall health condition. Some women may have thyroid pregnancy complications, but clear up naturally after birthing. For example, they may need to supplement temporarily when their thyroid nodules are underactive and exercise like yoga instead of HITT.

2. Thyroid problems happen to only women

This is false. Men can suffer from thyroid complications, and common symptoms include fatigue, hair loss, and unexpected weight gain.

3. You cannot eat vegetables if you have thyroid complications

“Goitrogenic” fruits and vegetables are a myth, and this is untrue that your gland gets sick by eating them. A well-rounded meal plan can help nourish and reactivate your nodules when combined with healthy exercise.

4. It is always a good idea to take OTC Thyroid supplements

You should always consult your endocrinologist before taking over-the-counter medication for thyroid treatment. Some of these supplements are not regulated by the FDA and contain hidden ingredients which may negatively impact thyroid function.

5. Iodine supplementation can fix yourthyroid problem

If your thyroid function is not optimal, no amount of supplemental iodine (with food or exercise) will help, since the gland won’t be able to utilise it properly.

6. You will know when you have thyroid disease

There is no way of telling, and symptoms may go unnoticed if not diagnosed correctly by a medical professional.

7. Skipping thyroid treatment is okay if your symptoms aren’t severe

Wrong. It is responsible for primary bodily functions. If mild cases are not addressed early on, you can suffer from serious health problems later, such as infertility, heart issues, and osteoporosis. 

8. Thyroid disease happens only after the mid-30s

Anyone can suffer from this problem, as young as teenagers too. There is no age limit or cut-off for this. However, people between the ages of 20 to 40 experience these problems the most.

9. If you have lumps or nodules, it is thyroid cancer

Not all lumps are cancerous, and most of them are benign. If you have lumps, don’t immediately jump to conclusions and get a medical diagnosis instead.

10. You can fix all your thyroid issues with only exercise

A consistent exercise routine may help manage symptoms but does not correct this condition fully. The shape and size of your body are irrelevant, and breathing exercises won’t heal your thyroid.

11. Weightlifting will make you bulky if you are female

Weight gain exercise routines will optimise your metabolism and keep you healthy. Women do not have the required testosterone like men to get that bulky, which is naturally impossible.

12. You should exercise if you have an underactive or overactive thyroid

Exercise is unnecessary; if you develop pain while working out, that can be a huge red flag.

13. Spot training is suitable for thyroid treatment

Spot training focuses on only one area of the body; in reality, the thyroid gland functions with all your significant organs. A whole-body exercise program is much more effective.

14. You cannot lose weight if you suffer from hypothyroidism

Yes, although it may be true that you’ll have a more challenging time losing weight with hypothyroidism, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Eating an unprocessed, healthy, and nutritious diet, doing weight loss exercise, and building healthy lifestyle habits are the keys to long-term success.

15. Bulging Eyes Means You Have Hyperthyroidism

Bulging eyes could mean blurry vision, eyesight problems, or even autoimmune issues. Not every hyperthyroidism case is linked to this, which is very rare.

Conclusion

Always consult a doctor before believing anything found on the internet or heard from people. If you find anythyroid symptoms, get the necessary treatment. You can even educate your loved ones if they believe any myths about this disease.

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FAQs

Should I visit the doctor if I have a thyroid problem?

In most cases, you won’t even know if you have an underactive or overactive thyroid gland. The best way to find out is by getting a medical diagnosis done.

Will my goitre become enlarged if I have a thyroid hormone problem?

It depends, but definitely not in all cases.

Is aerobic exercise best for the thyroid?

Aerobic exercise may help improve the synthesis of the human body’s thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

Should I avoid meat if I have a thyroid condition?

Avoid processed foods and do not take over-the-counter medications or supplements without a doctor’s prescription.

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