The thyroid gland is small but plays a significant role. The thyroid gland controls metabolism, the health of the heart, brain, and stomach. The thyroid hormones T3 and T4 determine how quickly a cell will produce energy. The thyroid completely controls metabolism. If your thyroid gland isn’t working properly, you could experience either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) develops when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones to satisfy the body’s needs. Alternatively, hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland becomes overactive and starts producing an excessive amount of thyroid hormones
When the thyroid gland produces fewer thyroid hormones, it directly affects metabolism. Metabolism starts working slowly. Did you know that worldwide, more than 30 million women and more than 15 million men are victims of hypothyroidism? Individuals with hypothyroidism often experience a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, dry skin, muscle weakness, memory issues, mood fluctuations, and weight gain.
Thyroid medication can assist in regulating hormone levels and managing symptoms. However, it is important to complement the medication with a balanced diet that includes foods beneficial for hypothyroidism. If you’re unsure about which foods are best for managing hypothyroidism, continue reading this blog for more information.
Omega 3s fight inflammation
Algal oil, flaxseed, hemp seed, brussels sprouts, wild salmon, tuna, trout, or sardines are excellent omega-3 fatty acids sources. When hypothyroidism is not properly managed, it can raise the risk of heart disease by elevating levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as bad cholesterol. Omega-3 fatty acids are pretty popular in increasing immunity, lowering inflammation, and reducing the risk for heart disease.
Nuts help to improve thyroid functions
Do you know that selenium is a required nutrient for people with hypothyroidism? It is most concentrated in the thyroid and helps decrease inflammation. Nuts like Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, and hazelnuts are also good sources of the nutrient selenium.
It’s essential to monitor the portion sizes of nuts you consume, as they are also quite high in fat. One or two Brazil nuts are enough. For most people, a small handful of nuts is sufficient to meet your daily nutritional needs.
One important thing to keep in mind when consuming walnuts is. Make sure to avoid consuming walnuts when taking your medication. There should be 4 hours gaps between thyroid medication and walnut consumption because walnuts can interrupt thyroid hormone medication absorption.
Gluten-free grains are good for hypothyroidism
Celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that pushes the body to respond to gluten, is more prevalent in people with other autoimmune disorders, like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This is a major factor contributing to hypothyroidism. Avoiding gluten in your diet might alleviate some symptoms associated with Hashimoto’s disease. You can add gluten-free grains like quinoa, kasha, rice, millet, corn, and buckwheat.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are good for managing weight
Weight gain is a symptom of hypothyroidism. It is essential to manage it. Nutritionists consistently advise incorporating foods that are low in calories but high in nutritional density. These foods are a keystone of every successful weight loss program.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are low in calories but rich in nutrients, making it essential to include them in your meals. Consider adding options like blueberries, cherries, sweet potatoes, and green bell peppers. These foods are packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients, helping to lower the risk of heart disease.
Iodine plays a crucial role in maintaining normal thyroid function. Consequently, many doctors recommend limiting the consumption of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage. Do you know that you can have them in moderation but always in cooked form?
Seaweed is suitable for hypothyroidism patients
Iodine is an essential nutrient that the thyroid gland requires performing accurately. It serves as a precursor in the production of thyroid hormones. That is why iodine is crucial. So, what food sources can provide you with it? Seaweed is an excellent source of a high iodine concentration and offers other nutrients like calcium, fibre, and vitamins A, B, C, E, and K. Some of the most well-known types of seaweed include Kombu, Nori, Dulse, and Wakame.
It is essential to ensure that you are deficient in iodine before consuming iodine-rich foods or supplements because too much iodine can aggravate thyroid disease. Did you know that the standard recommended daily intake for adults is 150 micrograms per day?
Non-dairy foods
Thyroid experts advise steering clear of dairy products such as milk, butter, yogurt, and cheese, as they may trigger your body’s immune response. Instead, consider incorporating non-dairy options like kombucha, water, kefir, and vinegar to enhance your gut health.
Usually, in hypothyroidism people, lactose intolerance occurs at a high frequency. Dairy products include lactose and casein, which can lead to inflammation of the thyroid gland. A thyroid doctor often suggests lactose-free, anti-inflammatory foods to add to the hypothyroidism diet plan.
The best beverages to maintain your hypothyroidism
When your thyroid fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones, your metabolism slows down naturally. You won’t burn enough calories, and it leads to weight gain. Simply add green tea to your diet. It will improve your metabolic rate to ignite more calories. In addition, you can enjoy fresh orange juice, spring water, chia-infused lemon water, hibiscus tea, cinnamon ginger herbal tea, and water mixed with apple cider vinegar. Alcohol and coffee don’t go well with the thyroid, so it’s better to say goodbye to them.
Unsweetened dark chocolate
Unsweetened dark chocolate is an impressive superfood to add to the diet for those with thyroid conditions. Unsweetened dark chocolate is made from 70 to 85 percent cacao. Don’t get confused with cocoa.
Toxins and stress produce an excess of free radicals that cause cellular damage. Cacao in unsweetened dark chocolate contains substantial amounts of antioxidants and fibre, magnesium, copper, calcium, and potassium. These antioxidants and nutrients help prevent and treat the cellular damage caused by the excess formation of free radicals.
Key Takeaway: These superfoods can effectively help restore your thyroid hormone levels, but it’s important to remember that food alone cannot cure thyroid conditions. An effective approach includes a mix of vital nutrients, thyroid medications, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for optimal management. It would be great if you add exercise to your routine. It will help to practice restorative sleep habits. Furthermore, exercise and stress management can enhance sleep quality, and help restore thyroid function.
“Follow a hypothyroid-friendly diet plan, a healthy lifestyle along with thyroid medication, and take control over your life.”
