As we go through life, we come across many situational stressors that may take a bigger toll on our health than we think! However, it is all about the coping mechanisms.
How does stress impact the thyroid gland?
Our thyroid gland has a big umbrella of metabolic functions; one of its jobs is to create energy for your body. Our thyroid works closely with the adrenal glands, which releases a stress hormone called cortisol that may interfere with many other functions. When we go through a prolonged period of stress, our body is not set up to combat that because we are meant to deal with small amounts at a time. Hence, too much cortisol will result in the interference of thyroid hormone production.
Listed below are great ways to get a handle on your stresses!
Stress Reduction Tips in association with Hashimotos Disease:
1. Diet
- Avoid inflammatory foods: nightshades, gluten, dairy
- Increase water intake
- Intake adequate protein
- Eat plenty of dark leafy greens
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol
- Keep a check on your sugar intake
2. Sleep
- Aim for a good ample amount of sleep (7-8 hours)
- Avoid any screen time an hour before bedtime, try to charge your phone or electronics outside the bedroom
- May invest in dark black curtains to provide complete darkness
3. Practice breathing techniques daily for 5 minutes:
- Find a comfortable and quiet place
- Place feet slightly apart with one hand over your abdomen area near the navel and the other hand over your chest
- Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth
- Concentrate on the breathing
- Inhale slowly while counting to four, make sure to not move your chest or shoulders
- Keep repeating until in full relaxation state
4. Time Management
- Set priorities- have a day goal of what is the most important task for you to focus on instead of multiple
- Organize your day- create a definite plan for the day on the basis of your priorities
- Tackle tough jobs first- handle the most important task first as your energy is still high
- Avoid putting things off- plan ahead to avoid last minute stressful deadlines
If you are curious to know about our bioscanners and how we can aid in your wellbeing, you may contact us at 604-716-4530.
