How to Prevent Thyroid Disease

Thyroid disease can cause serious problems in people. The disease may be hard to diagnose because the symptoms associated with the disease mimic other illnesses. Those who suspect they may have thyroid disease must be diagnosed by their physician. There are things that can be done to prevent this condition.

• Avoid feeding infant soy based milk. Many infants who cannot tolerate regular formula will be switched to soy milk. These children are at higher risk for developing thyroid disease later in life.

• Drink bottle water. Materials such as perchlorate and fluoride in water can cause thyroid problems.

• Limit the amount of iodine in your diet. Too much or too little of iodine in a diet can cause thyroid disease. The recommended amount of 120 to 150 mcg a day.

• Avoid a lot of stress. Stress can also lead to problems with the thyroid. Learn stress-reducing techniques.

• Consider taking selenium supplements. It is a mineral that has been proven to help prevent thyroid disease. Be sure to get your health care providers advice about implementing this supplement in your diet.

• Avoid soy supplements and foods that are made with soy products. Soy is known to trigger and worsen conditions of the thyroid.

• Stop smoking if you do not don’t start. Smoking will damage the thyroid and will worsen the condition.

• Eat a healthy and nutritional meal everyday. 

• Exercise everyday for at least 30 minutes. Walking is a great way to start implementing the right amount of exercise needed each day.