Must Know Foods That Help with Thyroid
The Thyroid is a tiny, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that regulates various body functions. The functions include metabolism, energy production, and even mood balance. Maintaining healthy thyroid health is essential to feeling your best.
Your diet is one crucial component that significantly impacts thyroid function. Your Food can affect your thyroid’s ability to generate hormones correctly. Therefore, a healthy diet is critical for maintaining the essential glands and avoiding health problems.
Let’s discuss how your diet can keep your thyroid healthy.
Understanding Thyroid Function
The thyroid gland is your body’s thermostat. It aids in the regulation of metabolism. Consider your metabolism to be your body’s engine. Thyroid glands use energy by producing two thyroid hormones, T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine).
Types of Thyroid Problems
Thyroid disease affects people in two ways. One is hypothyroidism, and the other is hyperthyroidism. These problems occur when the thyroid gland fails to function correctly. Here is a brief description of the types of thyroid problems,
Hypothyroidism
It is a thyroid disorder where the thyroid gland produces insufficient T3 and T4. According to the NHS, the common symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Hyperthyroidism
Conversely, hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland produces too much T3 and T4. It can cause anxiety, weight loss, and heat sensitivity.
In both problems, the thyroid hormone level is out of balance, affecting your overall health.
If you visit a physician, he may recommend various medications or treatments to keep the body working correctly. But today, we will only focus on the foods that help combat thyroid issues.
Also Read “What are Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Problems“
Foods That Help with Thyroid
While thyroid issues are frequent, several foods help improve thyroid health. Adding certain foods to your diet provides the thyroid gland with the essential nutrition it needs to work well. These foods also play a role in improving overall health.
Remember, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are two different situations and require a specific set of foods for better health.
Want to know which foods best suit hypothyroidism patients and vice versa? We have made a list of foods you can avail of for specific thyroid issues.
Top 9 Foods For Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid characterizes hypothyroidism. Foods are an essential component of managing thyroid hormone disturbance.
These foods contain vital nutrients that boost thyroid function. Let’s discuss several simple foods that can play an essential role in improving thyroid function.
1- Iodine Rich Foods
People with hypothyroidism require iodine for the formation of thyroid hormones. In this case, seaweed, iodized salt, and seafood are essential to ensure proper iodine intake. Dairy products like yogurt and milk are also suitable for hypothyroidism.
2. Selenium Sources
Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, whole grains, and turkey have a lot of selenium. Selenium is essential to convert thyroid hormone into active form, which helps manage hypothyroidism.
3. Zinc Rich Foods
Foods like pumpkin seeds, lentils, chickpeas, beef, and oysters give adequate levels of zinc to the body. Taking in foods rich in zinc is suitable for normalizing hypothyroidism.
4. Foods High in Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a vital component that helps to improve thyroid function. Increase your vitamin D intake by eating fatty fish, egg yolks, milk, and yogurt. Furthermore, spending time in the sun can also increase vitamin D naturally.
5. Leafy Greens
Spinach and kale have an abundance of antioxidants and nutrients. These nutrients include iron and vitamin C, which help treat hypothyroidism symptoms.
6. Berries
Blueberries and strawberries have a good amount of antioxidants. The antioxidants reduce inflammation of the thyroid and improve thyroid health.
7. Low Glycemic Index Carbs
Like quinoa and sweet potatoes, carbohydrates with a low glycemic index suit the thyroid. These foods aid in maintaining steady blood sugar levels and may aid in thyroid function.
8. Probiotic-Rich Foods
Probiotics in yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods maintain a healthy gut. Good gut health further promotes overall well-being.
9. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, chia, and flax seeds have omega-3 fatty acids and fiber sources which are essential for improving thyroid health.
Top 3 Foods for Hyperthyroidism
In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormone. Managing hyperthyroidism entails making dietary changes that can help lessen symptoms. Here’s a list of foods to manage hyperthyroidism.
1- Goitrogenic Foods
Goitrogens are substances present in meals. It helps slow down the production of thyroid hormones. Among these foods are,
● Broccoli
This cruciferous vegetable contains compounds such as glucosinolates. These compounds interfere with thyroid hormone production and help manage it.
● Cabbage
Cabbage is high in goitrogens, which can help those with hyperthyroidism.
● Cauliflower
It is another cruciferous vegetable. The compounds present in cauliflower help regulate healthy thyroid function.
2. Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Hyperthyroidism produces free radicals in the body; you can avoid its production using antioxidant-rich foods. Foods known for their antioxidant content include,
● Berries
Berries like strawberries and blueberries are versatile food options. People with hypothyroidism, as well as hyperthyroidism, can use it. They have many antioxidants that protect cells from the harm thyroid hormone causes.
● Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, and other green vegetables have vitamin C and beta-carotene. These compounds are suitable to help with overall health and maintain the thyroid.
3. Low Iodine Foods
Iodine is essential to managing thyroid hormones. However, if you have hyperthyroidism, you must avoid it. Foods with low iodine levels include:
● Non Iodized Salt
You can reduce your iodine intake by replacing table salt with non-iodized salt while cooking.
● Fresh Meat
Turkey, chicken, and ham contain less iodine than processed meats. It makes them an excellent choice to have with hyperthyroidism.
● Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables have naturally low levels of iodine. Therefore, you can easily have them to improve your overall health, says Harvard Health.
Remember, although these foods can help with thyroid issues, it is crucial to consult a physician at a primary care clinic before any dietary adjustments.
People react differently to foods, so it’s essential to consult an expert before trying specific foods for health issues.
Lifestyle Tips to Cope With Thyroid
Lifestyle changes play an essential role in managing thyroid problems effectively. These changes act as warriors to cope with hormone imbalances. The best lifestyle practices you must consider for thyroid management include,
Regular Exercise
Daily physical activity is best to support thyroid health. Engage in exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga. Exercise boosts stamina, which thyroid issues commonly affect.
Stress Management
Chronic stress may trigger proper thyroid function. In this case, stress management exercises such as deep breathing and meditation are beneficial for managing thyroid function.
Balanced Diet
A well-balanced diet can go a long way in managing thyroid-related problems. Always consult an expert nutritionist for a customized diet plan that meets your dietary needs.
Proper Sleep
Loss of sound sleep can disturb average thyroid hormone production. Sleeping at least 7 hours a day is vital to prevent health issues like thyroid.
Limit Processed Foods
You should avoid processed foods like high-sugar compounds and unhealthy snacks. These foods do no good except for body damage. So, say no to them and binge on healthy foods instead.
Regular check Ups
Regular check-ups are the only things that can keep you aware of your disease’s progress. Therefore, pay close attention to visiting your doctor regularly. It will help solve half of your health issues.
Medication Adherence
If you have been diagnosed with thyroid problems and are taking medications, you should adhere to the regular dose. Skipping a dose can trigger your thyroid again, and you must work harder to normalize it.
PHNJ | The Solution to Your Thyroid Problems
Foods That Help with Thyroid
Have you got thyroid problems and are looking for an expert physician to help you cope? We've got you covered.
At Prime Health of New Jersey, our doctors have treated thyroid problems for 20 years. Are you suffering from thyroid disease and don't know where and whom to consult? Feel free to book an appointment with experts and get expert advice now.
Schedule an AppointmentKey Takeaways
- The thyroid is a tiny, butterfly-shaped organ in the neck region.
- It functions with the help of thyroid hormones T3 and T4. A minor change in thyroid hormone levels can give rise to thyroid issues.
- Among the issues, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are common.
- You can avail of various food options to deal with thyroid imbalance.
- Among foods that help with thyroid function , green vegetables, nuts, lean meat, and berries have a role in managing thyroid dysfunction.
- A well-balanced diet and lifestyle changes also play a significant role in controlling the condition.
The food works differently for different people. Therefore, visit a healthcare advisor for a customized meal plan that suits your needs.
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