Did you know? Thyroid disorders are one of the most common endocrine problems in India. Nearly 42 million Indians are estimated to suffer from thyroid issues, and around 60% of them remain undiagnosed. Among these, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is almost five times more common than hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), especially in women.
Your Thyroid and Why It Matters
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located below your Adam’s apple. Despite its size, it plays a major role in maintaining your metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. Thyroid hormones regulate how your body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for energy. They also support the proper function of your liver, brain, heart, muscles, kidneys, skin, and fertility.
When your thyroid works properly, your energy and metabolism remain in balance. However, when it doesn’t, health problems can slowly develop without clear signs at first.
How the Thyroid Gland Works
The thyroid gland operates through a signaling system that connects your brain and gland. The hypothalamus releases TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone), prompting the pituitary gland to release TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). TSH then tells the thyroid to produce two key hormones — T3 and T4.
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T3 (Triiodothyronine): The active hormone that controls metabolism and energy use.
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T4 (Thyroxine): A less active hormone that’s converted into T3 in the liver and kidneys.
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Calcitonin: Helps regulate calcium and phosphate in the blood, supporting bone health.
Iodine is crucial for thyroid hormone production — which is why foods like iodized salt, seafood, dairy, and eggs are important in your diet.
Signs Your Thyroid May Not Be Working Properly
Thyroid issues often go unnoticed until symptoms become more visible. Here’s what to look out for:
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Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid): Fatigue, weight gain, sluggishness, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, and brain fog.
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Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid): Unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, anxiety, thin hair, and insomnia.
In India, hypothyroidism is especially common in women above 40 years of age.
Health Risks of Hypothyroidism
If left untreated, low thyroid function can affect several organs and systems in the body:
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Heart: Increased LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and higher risk of heart disease.
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Nervous System: Brain fog, numbness, tingling, and neuropathy.
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Muscles: Weakness, cramps, and reduced strength.
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Fertility: Irregular periods, difficulty conceiving, and pregnancy-related issues.
Who is at Higher Risk?
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Women between 40–50 years of age.
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Family history of thyroid or autoimmune disorders.
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Existing conditions like Type 1 Diabetes, PCOS, or Rheumatoid Arthritis.
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Past radiation therapy or thyroid removal surgery.
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Long-term use of certain medications that affect thyroid function.
Diet Tips for Thyroid Health
Your diet plays an important role in maintaining healthy thyroid hormone levels:
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Iodine: Use iodized salt and include seafood, dairy, and eggs in your diet.
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Vitamin B12: Deficiency is common among Indians with thyroid disorders. Add fish, eggs, chicken, dairy, or fortified cereals.
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Selenium: Essential for converting T4 into T3. Found in Brazil nuts, eggs, mushrooms, and sunflower seeds.
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Omega-3s: Reduce inflammation and support thyroid function. Include salmon, sardines, flaxseeds, or walnuts.
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Magnesium: Supports thyroid hormone production and energy metabolism. A magnesium supplement — especially Magnesium Bisglycinate — is gentle on the stomach and highly absorbable.
Lifestyle Tips for Thyroid Balance
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Avoid BPA: Switch from plastic bottles to stainless steel or glass alternatives.
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Stay Active: Engage in 45–60 minutes of daily exercise like walking, yoga, or cycling.
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Yoga for Thyroid: Poses like Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand), Matsyasana (Fish Pose), and Pranayama can help regulate thyroid hormones.
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Manage Stress: Meditation and mindfulness reduce stress, which helps balance hormones.
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Regular Testing: Get your thyroid checked periodically with a simple blood test (TSH, T3, T4).
Final Takeaway
Your thyroid plays a vital role in controlling energy, metabolism, and overall wellness. By maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, managing stress, and staying active, you can help your thyroid function optimally. Nutrients like selenium, iodine, vitamin B12, and magnesium are key for hormonal balance. Including a magnesium bisglycinate supplement can further support better thyroid hormone absorption and overall health.
