Parathyroid diseases target the pea-sized glands that produce parathyroid hormone (PTH). Located near the neck, these glands maintain appropriate calcium levels in the body.

People with parathyroidism generally experience a range of symptoms, including appetite loss, fatigue, constipation, nausea, and even depression.

If you’re diagnosed with this disease, you might want to bring in some major lifestyle changes to manage these symptoms.

Here is a curated list to help you start your health journey.

1. Follow a Diet Plan

Choosing a balanced diet is important for parathyroid patients. However, you first need to figure out whether you have hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism.

After that, focus on gathering enough knowledge of the food items you should limit and the ones that need to be taken.

If you have hypoparathyroidism, make sure to have food that ensures a calcium intake of 1200 – 2000 milligrams (mg)/day. On the other hand, if you have hyperparathyroidism, you must limit highly processed foods and add more nutrient-dense ones.

Milk and dairy products are the primary source of calcium. You can also add broccoli, figs, almonds, and orange juice. But sources like fish like sardine, tinned salmon, and whitebait are a much healthier option.

DEEPER DIVE: Top 10 Arizona ZIP codes people are moving to in 2025

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS: Want more news like this? Get our free newsletter here

2. Regular Exercise

Exercising regularly can help people with parathyroid to overcome symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and mood swings.

Knowing which exercises to do is crucial because there is always a risk of injury. To know what is right for you, talk to your doctor first. Follow an exercise pattern that is relatively easier if you are a beginner. t

Remember to always incorporate strength training into your routine. Also, non-impact and low-impact exercises are a better choice if you have moderate to severe symptoms.

Nowadays, you can also choose an online workout trainer to make sure you exercise correctly and consistently.

Listen to your body and do not overdo it!

3. Increase Fluid Intake

Approximately 2L is the recommended daily intake of water for those affected by parathyroidism.

Ideally, 8 glasses of water should help increase calcium excretion in the body. This is especially important for those suffering from hyperparathyroidism since they‘re sometimes advised to lower their calcium level.

Adequate hydration will help ease your road to recovery. So, fluid intake must be monitored closely.

4. Focus on Reducing Stress

When a disease affects your physical health, it also starts invading your mental health. This is why incorporating stress relaxation techniques into your routine is paramount.

Parathyroidism can often create memory loss, anxiety, and lead the patient into depression. You must do everything in your capacity to not let less stress get to you. Exercising daily and engaging in moderately challenging hobbies can be one way to approach this.

Stress influences PTH secretion. So consult a doctor and seek adequate treatment to avoid falling prey to stress.

5. Do Not Smoke

Cigarette smoking is widely recognised as leading to cardiovascular complications. But did you know that it can also lead to low bone mineral density?

The PTH levels are usually low in smokers. Smoking cessation also prevents bone loss and improves the overall health of bones.

6. Review your Medication Frequently

There are varying treatments for parathyroidism depending on what the patient’s body needs. This could range from hyperparathyroidism surgery services, medications, and a prescribed routine that includes a balanced diet and exercise plan.

Among these, medications are unavoidable. Hence, it is vital to take them on time and as directed by your doctor.

You must get regular health checks from your doctor. This way, your doctor remains informed about the dosage and can also prescribe changes as and when required.

Conclusion

While common treatment methods for parathyroidism include surgery and medication, you should supplement them with lifestyle changes to make them more effective.

From yoga to following a proper diet plan, there is plenty you can do to improve your health.