HORMONE MALFUNCTION
Hormones have profound physiological and biochemical control on human metabolism. Malfunction of any hormone can alter, damage hindrance or activate different systems of our body. Diabetes, Thyroidism, Infertility etc. are the example of hormone malfunction. Secretion and utilization of hormone is disturbed, results in malfunction.
Diet therapy is inevitable for disease like diabetes. A diabetic patient should eat two main meals plus two small meals to regulate sugar. Avoiding sugar, sweets etc. are a must. But many diabetics do not know that fiber containing fruits, vegetables, whole grains; legumes, sprouts, curd and low fat milk are the best options for meal plan. Foods like cakes, pastries, juices, biscuits etc. raise glucose very fast. Whereas nuts, legumes, sprouts, salads, vegetables and coarse or whole cereals release glucose slowly keeping sugar balanced.
Sex hormones affect reproduction. This includes menopausal problems and hormone dependent obesity too. Some foods have ‘estrogenic effect.’ They can regulate or increase estrogen hormone. Vitamin E is vital for reproductive system. It stops miscarriage. Whole wheat, oat, bran, vegetables oils, sprouts and barley provide good amount of vitamins E.
Thyroid hormone influence lipid metabolism and its low or high concentrations lead to underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). Recently thyroid function is found to be associated with depression. Conditions of weight gain, lethargy, fatigue etc. are seen. Researches show that there are specific foods, which are anti-thyroid. Tryptophan and tyrosine amino acids are part of the amino acid therapy found good to cure depression due to thyroidism. Vitamin B complex and Iron are also good. Sprouted legumes, milk, curd, pearl millet, rice and groundnuts are the good sources. There are few foods called ‘Goitrogens’ which harm thyroid function. They are present in wheat, barley, soybeans, and cruciferous vegetables.
Adrenaline hormones secrete from adrenal gland. They are associated with stress and called ‘stress coping hormones.’ When we are under stressful situation, adrenal releases adrenaline and cortisol hormones. These hormones infuse with strength and sense of well-being but when stress becomes chronic, adrenal restrict producing feel–good hormones. A normal day can also then result in anxiety, irritability and exhaustion. To cope with this situation good amount of essential amino acids, little bit of saturated fat and essential fatty acids, vitamins B complex are required and enough carbohydrates to provide stamina and maintain glucose levels. A high protein or first class protein diet will certainly provide essential amino acids. Omega–3 fatty acids are good for mental functions. |
