Hypothyroidism is the most common hormonal imbalance in childhood. It is also the most important cause of preventable mental retardation.
There are two types of hypothyroidism, congenital(occurs in newborns) and acquired(occurs in infancy or childhood). Acquired hypothyroidism is seen in 0.3% school going children. It can present with any of these symptoms- obesity, slow growth, delay in puberty, hoarseness of voice, increased sleep, fatigue, decreased memory, etc.
Thyroid hormones are synthesized in the thyroid glands, which are situated in front of the neck. In acquired hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland increases in size. it is known as goiter. There is some food that can disrupt the production of thyroid hormones and amplify (or cause) hypothyroidism. These foods are known as goitrogens. These foods should be avoided in the diet if your child is diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
FRUIT- strawberry, peaches, pears
VEGETABLES- lima beans( one type of peas), cassava, bamboo shoots, radish, spinach, sweet potato
Cruciferous vegetables(cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, turnips)
SOY-BASED FOOD- soybean, soya sauce, soy milk, soybean oil, etc.
NUTS- peanuts
SEEDS- linseed
TEA- green tea
OTHERS- sorghum(joar), millet(baajara), maize; mustard green
The complete list of goitrogen is extensive. There are many other fruit and vegetables which contains a small amount of goitrogen. If I enlist all of them it will be difficult to find what to eat. Only the important (and common) ones are written here.
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