The thyroid gland in your body is responsible for producing hormones for metabolism. Metabolism is actually the powerhouse of energy as it controls various processes in the body. Thyroid hormones also regulate body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. a woman can have hypothyroidism before pregnancy or hypothyroidism might occur during pregnancy. Both conditions bring a lot of challenges in the pregnancy course. Here are the details that you need to know in this condition.
Hypothyroid During Pregnancy:- Some women develop a mild to moderate hypothyroidism during the course of pregnancy. It mostly goes unnoticed as a large part of hypothyroidism symptoms are the same such as heat, fatigue, weight gain, and intolerance. That's why most Gynecologists get thyroid functions tested as a part of the pregnancy checkups. So, it is best to consult your doctor and get timely treatment for the same.
Complications involved in Hypothyroid During Pregnancy
Thyroid hormones can greatly affect the fetus and lead to a lot of complications. If left untreated, it can result in the following –Premature baby, Anemia, and miscarriage. Birth defects like cleft palate and extra fingers, Autoimmune disorders, Developmental delays and Increased risk of heart, kidney, and brain-related disorders.
Medical Support in Hypothyroidism during Pregnancy
Normal range thyroid levels will prevent the risks of miscarriage and stillbirths. It will help in the proper development of the baby’s brain. Your doctor will also recommend thyroxine tablets in order to enhance the thyroid hormones level. As pregnancy advances, the thyroid levels experience a tremendous change. So it is necessary to do the blood tests every 4 weeks during the early weeks of pregnancy.
Superfoods That Help in Hypothyroid During Pregnancy
Take a look at some of the natural home remedies that can help to restore the function of your thyroid gland during pregnancy and otherwise.
Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are full of omega-3 fatty acids that help in the production of thyroid hormones. They support thyroid as they have phyto-estrogenic properties. They are an excellent source of vitamin B12 and magnesium that can fight the hypothyroidism symptoms.
Ginger: Ginger is one of the best remedies for treating hypothyroidism. It is rich in polyphenols, magnesium, and potassium that exhibit powerful anti-inflammatory properties that are greatly beneficial for hypothyroidism symptoms. If you are in the first trimester and experiencing indigestion, acidity and heartburns, consuming ginger in the right quantity and the right way will give you tremendous benefits.
Ashwagandha: This wonderful herb can work wonders in regulating your thyroid hormones. It strengthens immunity and enhances the stamina of your body. It is a gift of nature and its intake can support the performance of the thyroid.
Coconut oil: Coconut oil is known for combating hypothyroidism by enhancing your body temperature and metabolism. It contains medium-chain fatty acids and has excellent anti-microbial as well as anti-inflammatory properties. We often just end up following a diet trend without knowing if this will really benefit you medically.
Brazil Nuts: Brazil nuts are in excellent selenium source which helps in the proper functioning of the thyroid. But it is important not to over-consume as they are high in fat.
Guggul: Guggul is known to activate compounds in the body called guggulsterone which can relieve the hypothyroidism symptoms. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can stimulate the thyroid functions. Guggul is easily available in all Ayurvedic stores.
Kelp: Kelp is a brown weed that contains the best elements and organic properties to cure hypothyroid effectively. It can aid in fulfilling the lack of iodine in your body. You can also take spirulina.
Iodized Table salt: The thyroid gland is dependent on Iodine for its normal functioning. Deficiency can not only lead to goiter ( swelling of the thyroid gland) but also in hypothyroidism. Iodized salts are the best way to include iodine in your diet, especially if you are a vegetarian. If you are swayed by the benefits of Himalayan pink salt and using this salt instead of the regular table salt, then probably you are doing more bad to your thyroid gland than good.