The closing ceremony of the International Year of Millets, observed all through 2023, was held last week in a hybrid event at the Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations headquarters and the Sheikh
Zayed Centre in the UAE. Millets continue to have their moment in the sun with the FMCG industry jumping on the bandwagon as well with an emphasis on its health benefits and as an aid to weight loss. But let’s look at its effects on someone with thyroid dysfunction.
Losing weight can become a real struggle if you have an underactive thyroid gland as it slows down your metabolism. You might still gain weight, even with a healthy lifestyle. This is because your thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are responsible for metabolism and proper digestion. The less T3 and T4 you have, the less able your body will be in burning calories leading to weight gain.
What does Ayurveda say about millets?
Ayurveda gives immense importance to the diet of both healthy and diseased individuals. Millets come under the dhanya varga (category of cereals). Its synonyms are kshudra dhanya (small-sized cereals) and trina dhanya (grass-derived cereals).
Analysing the general qualities and effects of millets, it is observed that they are best advised for diseases that occur due to aggravation of Kapha, Pitta doshas and Rakta dushti. At the same time, due to its ruksha (dry), vatakara (Vata-increasing) properties, it is always necessary to avoid the use of millets in diseases caused by aggravation of Vata dosha as it also worsens the condition.
There are many varieties of millets available, each recommended in different conditions. But are they the right choice of diet for everyone? This needs further analysis.
Consumption of millets is not recommended for those having an underactive thyroid gland because it slows down thyroid functioning. It can increase the Vata in your body leading to impaired metabolic function and even worsen your thyroid symptoms.
Troublemakers in Millets?
- Phytic acid (leading to metabolic error)
- Goitrogens: C-glycosylflavones (C-GFs), such as glucosyl vitexin, glucosyl orientin and vitexin (causing sluggishness and enlargement of thyroid)
Millets come with multiple health benefits but they also contain nutrient compounds that block or reduce your body’s absorption of other nutrients and may lead to deficiencies. One of these compounds — phytic acid — interferes with potassium, calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium uptake.
It is not recommended for people with hypothyroidism. People with thyroid disorders too should reduce or restrain from consuming millets because it causes enlargement of the thyroid gland.
If you experience bloating, constipation or any discomfort after consuming millets, it would be wise to consult an Ayurveda practitioner. These signs may be indicative of other underlying health issues which need to be resolved before introducing new foods or adopting new dietary practices.