The function of the thyroid gland is to take iodine, found in many foods, and convert it into thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid cells are the only cells in the body which can absorb iodine. These cells combine iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to make T3 and T4. T3 and T4 are then released into the bloodstream and are transported throughout the body where they control metabolism. Every cell in the body depends upon thyroid hormones for regulation of their metabolism.
The good thing is that humans can live a perfectly normal life without it, which makes treating the disease much easier. However, after losing the thyroid you need to maintain healthy eating habits because your body doesn’t regulate metabolism naturally anymore and you ingest the metabolism-regulating hormones via pills. Since it’s not the same thing, so it’s recommended you develop healthy eating habits.
Honestly, it’s not that hard; it is basically the same thing that is recommended to everyone, thyroid or not. It’s a balance, you can still consume your favorite junk foods just in more moderation. Try to add more healthy foods into your life, because your goal is not to gain weight because it is something that will be very easy to gain and very hard to lose. Just try to stay at your current weight, that’s the ultimate goal.
In my case, I decided to cut out meat out of my diet and include more natural foods and more plant-based proteins. It has helped me a lot, I’ve managed to maintain my weight and not gain much. Another recommendation is to take vitamin supplements, these include vitamin C and D or just a general vitamin supplement. Before you decide to take any supplements, please consult your doctor or any other health care professional to make sure that it’s the right thing for you.
It’s all a question of balance and moderation, your life isn’t over after getting your thyroid removed and you can still enjoy everything you enjoyed before. Please consult your doctor for any questions you might have about your diet because remember that everyone is different. Take good care of yourself, and do what is right for you.
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