To address concerns about hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, in which an overactive thyroid produces too much hormone, is the opposite of hypothyroidism. Instead of everything in your body slowing down, it speeds up. The predominant symptoms are nervousness and jitteriness, and eventually a sense of fatigue prevails. People with overactive thyroids also experience unusual hunger, weight loss, muscle weakness, and rapid heartbeat. They find heat hard to bear and sweat excessively. Treatment is aimed at the cause and involves reducing hormone production either by giving radioactive iodine or antithyroid drugs or by surgery to remove all or parts of the thyroid.

Nutrition Connection
While changing your diet won’t prevent or reverse hyperthyroidism, you can help ease some of the symptoms by following these guidelines:
-Avoid caffeine. Additional stimulation is the last thing someone with hyperthyroidism needs.
-Maintain an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Because hyperthyroidism may contribute to thinning bones, it’s important to get enough calcium every day to help prevent osteoporosis (1,000 to 1,200 mg a day) and vitamin D (600 to 800 international units (IUs) a day). Good food sources include dairy products, soy products, and dark leafy greens like collard and mustard greens.

Beyond the Diet
To address concerns about hyperthyroidism, follow these tips:
-See an eye doctor. Anyone whose hyperthyroidism is accompanied by bulging eyes should be closely followed by an ophthalmologist.
-Avoid cold medicines. Because some cold medicines contain stimulants, they could overstimulate people with overactive thyroid or strain their heart.

WHO’S AFFECTED?
• Women, especially during the 6 months after being pregnant or having a baby
• People ages 30 to 60
• People with a family history of thyroid disease
• People with autoimmune disorders