When the thyroid gland fails to produce the required amount of thyroxine hormone, it leads to hypothyroidism. It signs and symptoms tend to grow slowly. Thus, they are not visible at an early stage. Therapeutic nutritionist in Kolkata, Ananya Bhattacharya states that the symptoms may vary depending on the amount of hormone deficiency.
Initially, you barely notice the symptom i.e. fatigue & weight gain. But slowly as metabolism decreases you start developing the more obvious symptoms.
Some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism as mentioned by the therapeutic nutritionist in Kolkata are:
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin
• Sudden weight gain
• Puffy face
• Muscle weakness
• Hoarseness
• Increases cholesterol level
• Muscle aches or tenderness
• Irregular periods or heavy flow
• Thinning of hair
• Slower heart rate
• Join pain, swelling & stiffness
• Depression
• Impaired memory
• Goitre
Causes of hypothyroidism
Hyperthyroidism treatment: To cure hyperthyroidism and lower the production of thyroid hormone, many people opt for radioactive iodine therapy. This results in a permanent hypothyroidism.
Thyroid surgery: If you remove your thyroid gland by surgery, you develop this condition resulting to taking thyroid hormone for life.
Medication: Certain medications can develop hypothyroidism. Lithium is one such medicine. So before taking this medicine clarify with your doctor about its effect.
Iodine deficiency: Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. According to an online diet consultant, it is important to include iodine-rich food in diet, else it can lead to hypothyroidism.
Pregnancy: Some women tend to develop this condition during or after pregnancy. If it is left untreated it can increase the risk of miscarriage, preeclampsia, or sudden rise in blood pressure during pregnancy or premature delivery.

Dietary guidelines by online diet consultant of Ananya’s Nourish Me:

- Small but frequent meals
- Try and avoid cruciferous veggies like cabbage, cauliflower & broccoli. You can consume them only after they are thoroughly cooked
- Restrict soyabean to once every 10 days. Avoid soy milk, tofu, etc.
- Avoid processed & packaged food
- Include iodine and selenium-rich food in your diet like eggs, legumes, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, seafood, etc.
- Have lean meat and low-fat dairy products as they are rich in amino acids
- Wholegrain or fibre rich carbs like whole wheat flour, oats, quinoa are always welcomed
- Have at least 1 fruit rich in antioxidants
- Always have 3-t servings of veggies
- Drink 2.5 to 3 ltrs. of water every day.