What are goitrogens?

Goitrogens are substances that cause the thyroid gland unable to properly process iodine and affect its ability to create hormones. When the absorption of iodine is blocked by these substances, the gland can enlarge and create a mass in the throat called Goiter. There are a number of foods that have goitrogenic properties. Some medicines and other chemicals may also disrupt the thyroid ability to solve iodine. Goiter is not necessarily caused only by the use of goitrogens, especially those from food, but those who have a disturbed thyroid function, may want to avoid them because they can increase the likelihood of Goiter. Soya beans and soy products such as tofu are some of the main types of food that can reduce thyroid function. They contain isoflavones, a type of phytonutrient that blocks iodine processing, which in turn reduces the production of thyroid hormones. Jeoflavones are generally considered to be good for health, but their goitrogen properties can cause them to be less than ideal for thosewho have a deteriorated thyroid function. In these plants, all in the Brassica genus, substances that affect the thyroid are called isothiocyanates. Other vegetables in this family with goitrogenic properties include turnip, kale and cabbage.

Several other foods are also considered mild goitrogens. Fruits such as strawberries, peaches or pears can affect the thyroid gland. Pine nuts, peanuts and millet can also be goitrogenic; This category also includes spinach and sweet potatoes. Those who eat these meals, as well as soy or crucifixioners, should mainly worry if they consume raw; Cooking is destroyed by goitrogens, thus negating to neglect. In general, the level of goitrogens in these foods is not enough to cause a fair in a healthy individual, and even those with hypothyroidism can consume them in moderation, but should avoid excessive consumption.

Some drugs may affect thyroid function and lead to the development of goiter. The use of amiodarone to treat irregular heart rhythm can lead to hypothyroidism and goiter. Lithium, often used for psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar, can reduce thyroid hormones. Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine and phenobarbitone can also affect hormone levels. Some hyperthyreate drugs such as propylthiouracil, methimazole and potassium chloristan are specially used to reduce thyroid function and be redundant.