The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that is located in front of the trachea. It serves the function of releasing hormones that control the metabolic system, or the process of how the body transforms the food we consume into energy. It also releases hormones affecting the heart rate, the body temperature, brain development, mental activity, fertility, and more.

When the thyroid doesn’t function properly, it affects the entire body.

Most common conditions that can affect the thyroid are:

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Goiter (enlarged thyroid).
Thyroid cancer.
Although the diseases related to the thyroid are often not preventable because they are related to genetics or autoimmune diseases, one can still prevent thyroid problems related to iodine excess or deficiency.

In general, there are certain foods that can negatively affect the work of the thyroid.