Goiters are not equivalent to hyperthyroidism. Goiter describes
hyperplasia of the thyroid gland which most commonly due to problems
with the immune system. However, the increase in size of the thyroid
gland does not have any relationship with the amount of hormone to be
secreted.
In the more underdeveloped countries, goiters could be caused
by iodine deficiency, as patients may not be able to intake enough
iodine from seafood to fulfill their body needs. This causes the thyroid
hormones T3 and T4 in the blood to be lower than normal, prompting the
pituitary glands to continuously secrete TSH (Thyroid Stimulating
Hormones), stimulating growth of the thyroid glands.
Amazing Seaweed – Nutritious, Low in Calorie and Prevent Goiter
Seaweed, which grows in the ocean, has excellent source of
minerals especially iodine that can possess powers to prevent goiter.
Goiter refers to over-production of thyroid hormones, leading to
enlargement of the thyroid glands. Iodine is essential to maintain
proper functioning of thyroid glands, which helps to regulate body’s
metabolism, growth, temperature, heart rates etc., and deficiency in
iodine can lead to a disease called goiter. Large and thick neck
resulted from goiter that affects nearby organs such as esophagus and
trachea may lead to dysphagia and breathing difficulty, while stunted
growth and mental retardation can be seen in children with goiter due to
hypothyroidism.
Seaweed is categorized into three main groups, and they are
red, green, and brown seaweeds. Brown seaweed has the highest iodine
content, with dry kelp contains 1500-8000 ppm (parts per million), while
red and green seaweeds have lower contents, about 100-300 ppm in dried
seaweed, but still considered as high when compared to other land
plants. Adults and children who are actively growing are recommended to
have a daily intake of 150 µg and 90-120 µg iodine respectively, which
is actually covered by very little amount of seaweed, as only one gram
of dried brown seaweed can already provide 500-8,000 µg of iodine. Thus,
just a tablespoon of seaweed is already enough for recommended daily
intake.
In addition to iodine, seaweed is also an excellent source of
calcium and iron, which is especially suitable for vegetarians who avoid
dairy and meat products. Therefore, seaweed is highly recommended to be
included in our diet. This can be done by sprinkling kelp flakes onto a
salad or soup, wrapping rice or vegetables using nori sheets or having
seaweeds snacks during tea time. Although iodine intake may be related
to the situation of Goiter, other factors can also lead to Goiter. Thus,
it is recommended to seek a doctor immediately for medical check when
the problem of thyroid enlargement arises.
Reference information:
http://www.thyro.com.hk/goiter-thyroid.html
It
is not intended as medical advice to any specific person. If you have
any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your
health, please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
