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6 | YOU AT YOUR BEST | NWADG.COM/YOUATYOURBEST MAY - BEST NURSES | SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2017 SPECIAL TO NWA DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE You probably don't spend a lot of time thinking about the butterfl y-shaped gland in your neck which helps regulate metabolism, heart rate, energy levels and body tempera- ture. But thyroid disorders are very common. It's estimated that 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, and as many as 60 percent of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition. "Thyroid disorders can mimic several other health conditions, making them more diffi cult to diagnose," said Dr. Rebecca Al- eck, Internal Medicine specialist at Northwest Medical Plaza – Bentonville. "If you suspect you might have a thyroid problem, please con- sult with your primary care physician." The most common thyroid conditions are known as hypothyroidism and hyperthy- roidism. Hypothyroidism indicates an underac- tive thyroid gland – the most common thyroid disorder in older adults. Symptoms will vary, but often include fatigue, unexplained weight gain, increased cold sensitivity, constipation, joint and muscle pain, dry skin and depression. Hyperthyroidism indicates an overac- tive thyroid gland, which is more common in people under age 50. Symptoms may include rapid heart rate, anxiety, insomnia, increased appetite, weight loss, diarrhea and excessive perspiration. "Thyroid disorders are not just a mat- ter of discomfort and quality of life," said Dr. Aleck. "Too much thyroid hormone can cause heart disorders, affect blood pressure, and decrease bone density, which can lead to osteoporosis. Pregnant women with untreated hypothyroidism have an increased risk of mis- carriage, preterm delivery and developmental problems in their children." Many thyroid disorders are hereditary, or caused by factors such as autoimmune disorders and certain medications. However, there is clear evidence that lifestyle factors can play a signifi cant part. Here are some tips to help protect your thyroid health. Anti-infl ammatory diet. At least 70 per- cent of autoimmune activity happens in the gut, as a direct result of infl ammation. Avoid sugar and processed foods and instead eat a Mediterranean diet emphasizing fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and nuts, use healthy fats such as olive and canola oils, and season with herbs and spices instead of salt. Also, avoid eating broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale and other cruciferous vegetables when they're raw, as they contain substances that can interfere with the thyroid hormone. Optimize vitamin D. Adequate vitamin D levels are critical for regulating the body's immune system, and keeping infl ammation at bay. Have your doctor test your vitamin D levels periodically to ensure they are within a healthy range. Avoid environmental toxins. Long- term exposure to endocrine disruptors in the environment may trigger thyroid problems. According to the National Institute of Environ- mental Health Sciences, a few to be aware of are perfl uorinated chemicals (PFCs) in some carpets, fl ame-resistant and waterproof cloth- ing, and non-stick cookware. A 2011 study also revealed the exposure to phthalates, found in fragranced products and soft plastics, and bisphenol-A, still found in some hard plastics and food cans, can cause disruptions in thy- roid hormones. Many experts also recommend avoiding antibacterial soaps that contain tri- closan, an ingredient proven to alter hormone levels in animals. This tiny gland plays a powerful role in your overall health and well-being, and groundbreaking work is being done every year to better understand how to protect it and to more effectively screen for problems. Most thyroid diseases are life-long conditions that can be managed effectively with regular screening, lifestyle adjustments and medica- tions. As you add thyroid health to your fam- ily's list of priorities, choose fresh or frozen foods over canned, store food in porcelain or glass rather than plastics, and keep your home well-ventilated. Dr. Rebecca Aleck is accepting new patients. To request an appointment, call 479- 553-2664 or visit NW-Physicians.com. The Importance of a Healthy Thyroid PROFILE: NORTHWEST MEDICAL Dr. Rebecca Aleck - Internal Medicine Specialist Nurses wear many hats. In addi- tion to tending to patients and helping families of patients, nurses incorporate the latest technologies into patients' treatment. Some even work outside of hospitals and doctor's offi ces to train the next generation of nurses. Nursing has also branched out to include holistic nursing, which employs alternative medicine to care for patients. Alternative medicine is sometimes com- bined with traditional western medicine, requiring holistic nurses, who are some- times referred to as "complementary health nurses," understand both holistic and traditional nursing methods. According to the Campaign for Nursing's Future, sponsored by Johnson & Johnson, holistic nursing is rooted in the idea that nurses cannot treat a pa- tient's physical health without address- ing the whole person. In addition to addressing their patients' physical prob- lems, holistic nurses will also try to ad- dress their patients' mental, spiritual and emotional well-being. Holistic nursing is a growing fi eld, and it's entirely possible that the role of holistic nurses will expand in the years to come. Some of the things today's ho- listic nurses do include: • acupuncture • assisting patients with managing stress • aromatherapy • massage • hypnosis, hydrotherapy and balneo therapy • Chinese and Eastern healing practices • wellness coaching According to the American Holis- tic Nurses Association, holistic nursing is not intended to negate the validity of conventional medical therapies, such as traditional nursing. Holistic nursing serves to complement, broaden and en- rich the scope of nursing practices while aiming to help patients access their greatest healing potential. The AHNA notes that holistic nurses must be registered and/or li- censed. Such nurses may be found working at hospitals, universities and private practices. Men and women interested in pur- suing a career in nursing can learn more about holistic nursing at www.ahna.org. -Metro Creative Services Exploring Growing Field of Holistic Nursing