What are the nursing methods for hypothyroidism?
In our country, the number of patients with hypothyroidism is increasing. For the sake of our health, we should know more about the nursing methods for hypothyroidism. However, many people are not very clear about the nursing methods for hypothyroidism. So, what are the nursing methods for hypothyroidism? Next, let's take a look at the nursing methods for hypothyroidism.
The nursing methods for hypothyroidism are as follows:
(1) Provide adequate protein: The daily protein intake for each person should be at least 20g to maintain the body's protein balance. Amino acids are the basic components that make up proteins. About 3% of proteins are renewed daily. In hypothyroidism, the renewal rate of the small intestinal mucosa slows down, the secretory glands of digestive fluids are affected, and enzyme activity decreases. Generally, albumin levels drop, so essential amino acids should be supplemented to provide adequate protein to improve the condition.
(2) Limit fat and cholesterol-rich diets: Hypothyroidism patients often have hyperlipidemia, which is more obvious in primary hypothyroidism. Therefore, a fat-restricted diet is necessary. Daily fat supply should account for about 20% of the total calories, and cholesterol-rich diets should be limited.
(3) Supplement with appropriate iodine and avoid goitrogenic substances.
1) Supplement with iodized salt: In China, a concentration of 1 gram of potassium iodide is added to every 2-10 kilograms of salt to prevent and treat goiter, which significantly reduces the incidence rate. This is suitable for areas endemic for goiter. In addition, special attention should be paid to supplementing iodized salt for women of childbearing age to prevent the offspring from developing cretinism due to maternal iodine deficiency.
2) Avoid goitrogenic substances: Avoid eating foods like cabbage, bok choy, rapeseed, cassava, and walnuts to prevent goiter.
(4) Dietary adjustment:
1) Recommended foods: For hypothyroidism caused by iodine deficiency, appropriate amounts of kelp and seaweed should be selected. Iodized salt, iodized soy sauce, iodized eggs, and iodized-fortified bread can be used. When cooking, note that iodized salt should not be added to boiling oil to prevent iodine evaporation and reduce iodine concentration. Protein supplementation can come from eggs, dairy, various meats, and fish; plant proteins can be complementary, such as various bean products and soybeans. Supplying animal liver can correct anemia, and it is also necessary to ensure a supply of various vegetables and fresh fruits.
2) Foods to avoid: Avoid all goitrogenic substances, such as cabbage, bok choy, rapeseed, cassava, and walnuts; avoid cholesterol-rich foods, such as cream, animal brains, and internal organs. Limit high-fat foods, such as cooking oil, peanuts, walnuts, almonds, sesame paste, ham, pork belly, and whole milk cheese.
(5) Correct anemia and provide abundant vitamins: For those with anemia, a diet rich in iron and vitamin B12 should be supplemented, such as animal liver. If necessary, folic acid and liver preparations should also be provided.
The above are the nursing methods for hypothyroidism introduced by experts, and I hope they will be helpful to everyone. Reasonable and regular nursing can effectively improve the treatment effect, achieve the goal of treating hypothyroidism, and lead to a timely improvement in the condition. Wishing you a speedy recovery!