Goiter Disease Diet: Thyroid Gland Enlargement, Multinodular Goitre

Posted on May 11, 2010 by TDR in Respiratory & Lung Diseases

Question: I have multi nodular goitre on the right side of the thyroid gland. Its been there since 6 years. Since, the past one year, its size has gradually increased. The T3, T4, T5 tests indicate that the secretions are in normal range. However, I went for a FNAC in October 2009, and the doctor asked me to go in for a surgery, but I want to stay away from it because of the complications (pressure to larynx nerve). Currently, I am undergoing acupuncture and homeopathy treatment. These doctors have assured me that the size of the goitre would reduce.

Could you tell me whether homeopathy and acupuncture works to cure goitres. Also, let me know what type of life-style (diet, exercises etc.) should I follow to see some improvement. Looking forward to your response.

Answer: Definitely, homeopathy and acupressure will yield good results. But amelioration may not come overnight. It will take a while. Your thyroid profile seems to reveal the efficacy of these systems of medicine, since, they are within the normal range.

Regular check ups with the physician and assessing the thyroid hormones every 2 to 3 months is advocated.

Diet For Goiter Disease And Thyroid Gland Enlargement

Following are the dietary measures / modifications, you need to follow, to promote quick healing:

  • Ensure that your diet has plenty of foods that are good sources of iodine. Iodine deficiency is the primary cause that results in the enlargement / swelling of the thyroid gland. Step up your intake of the following foods – sea food, fresh vegetables (especially tomatoes), and fruits.
  • Ensure that you consume only iodized salt.
  • Avoid eating foods from the cruciferous family. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and mustard are the vegetables that belong to this family. These vegetables contain goitrogens. Goitrogens are certain substances that interfere with the normal  functioning of the thyroid gland. So do not consume them. Cooking is known to destroy goitrogens. So, you may consume these foods, well cooked, and in moderation.
  • Also, stay away from refined foods, processed foods, white flour, white sugar, caffeinated drinks, and aerated beverages

I would also recommend certain specific Yoga Asanas  such as – Bhujangasana and the Jalandhar Bandha. These work successfully on the neck and throat region, and exert a favorable benefit on the thyroid gland.

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