Lucy Payton 
It is estimated that approximately one in every 20 adults suffers from some type of thyroid condition. Whether referring to an overactive thyroid or an underactive gland, thyroid problems can have a very real impact on your quality of life and even your long-term health.
Interestingly enough, certain habits may be placing you at an increased risk of developing such issues. Let us examine how your lifestyle might influence the health of this gland. It will then be much easier to make the appropriate changes.
Poor Sleep Patterns
One study conducted by the National Library of Medicine found that there is a link between poor sleep and thyroid health. It was observed that those who did not obtain the proper amount of rest were more likely to be diagnosed with a condition known as subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH). Therefore, it is important to get plenty of sleep every night.
A Diet High in Processed Foods
One problem associated with processed foods is that they cause natural insulin levels to change dramatically within short periods of time. This can send “mixed signals” to the thyroid gland, causing it to malfunction. The issue here is that many Americans have embraced a diet that is based primarily on these types of foods. Therefore, make it a point to examine your daily intake in order to develop healthier eating patterns.
A Lack of Exercise
Physical exercise offers a number of health benefits, and unsurprisingly, a sedentary lifestyle can lead to thyroid issues. Embracing an active lifestyle will increase your basal metabolic rate, enabling you to absorb much-needed vitamins and minerals. This also contributes to a balanced thyroid gland. Of course, let’s keep in mind that regular exercise can stave off other chronic conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Consuming Too Much Coffee
When consumed in excess, coffee can also cause thyroid problems to develop. There are two reasons for this observation. First, coffee can damage the lining of the small intestine, making it more difficult for the body to absorb vital nutrients. Another potential issue is that drinking coffee may lead to sugar cravings. Insulin spikes within the bloodstream have been known to disrupt the production of certain thyroid-related hormones.
Insufficient Levels of Iodine
Iodine plays a crucial role in relation to the health of your thyroid gland. Individuals who do not receive enough iodine in their diet may eventually be diagnosed with a condition known as goiter (a type of hypothyroidism). Thankfully, iodized salt can help to prevent this issue. There are also instances when all-natural thyroid supplements, such as those found at Internationalpharmacy.com, can be used to restore hormone levels. This is important for those who might not be able to receive sufficient levels of iodine.
Making a handful of seemingly trivial lifestyle changes can have a very real impact on the health of your thyroid gland. Feel free to consult with a physician to learn more or if you require additional guidance.
