Seema used to wake up feeling tired and bloated every morning. Even making a cup of tea for herself felt like too much work. She was worried that she would soon lose her job because of the “lethargy” she felt every day.
She later consulted a functional medicine physician and a dietitian specializing in thyroid health, who emphasized the significance of incorporating foods that support thyroid function. Likewise, she began including a few fruits in her breakfast and snacks and felt increased energy.
Making small adjustments to her diet, such as adding dried fruits and fresh fruits that support thyroid health, completely transformed her life. Along with medication and supplements, she now sticks to a strict diet that has helped her overcome her fatigue and bloating slowly, but steadily.
Thyroid disorders affect every aspect of a person’s life. Managing weight, maintaining energy levels, stabilizing mood, supporting heart and bone health, as well as promoting reproductive well-being.
Medication for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can make up for the abnormal levels of thyroid hormones, but they cannot help with thyroid symptom reversal.
If you have thyroid problems, you should pay attention to your diet and nutrition. Various fruits beneficial for thyroid health can aid in boosting metabolism, enhancing energy levels, improving mood, and supporting both bone and heart health.
Which fruits are good for thyroid disorders?
Now, let’s dive right in and discover which fruits are most beneficial for managing hypothyroidism.
Berries
Berries are a reliable source of antioxidants. Your body needs to flush out the toxins for your glands to function optimally. Harmful substances such as food additives, preservatives, medication by-products, and environmental pollutants can impair the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
Adding blueberries, strawberries, and cranberries to your morning smoothies or breakfast makes for a perfect choice. They can help you fight the symptoms of hypothyroidism including unwanted weight gain, fatigue, and mood swings.
Apple
The saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” couldn’t be more accurate. Apart from containing several essential nutrients, apples also have strong detoxifying properties.
Eating one apple a day, either after breakfast or before lunch, can provide sufficient protection for your thyroid gland against free radical damage. Apples are also amazing for controlling cholesterol, obesity, and blood sugar levels.
So, when people ask us, “Which fruit is good for thyroid problems?” Our immediate response is always “Apple” without hesitation.
Bananas
Did you know? Bananas are actually berries. This is completely logical, as apples are an excellent fruit choice for supporting thyroid health. However, you should avoid overeating bananas, if you are looking forward to losing weight rapidly.
Bananas are rich in potassium, dietary fiber, vitamins B and C, as well as essential amino acids. They are natural sources of flavonoids and antioxidants. Bananas also contain selenium, which is quite rarely found naturally in fruits.
Around 100 to 150 grams of bananas daily are perfect for proper thyroid function. Additionally, bananas also help with constipation which is a significant sign of hypothyroidism. The best time to have a banana is in the morning after breakfast.
Citrus fruits
Oranges are among the top citrus fruits for addressing thyroid issues. They are a popular choice for those seeking fruits beneficial for thyroid health, as they are packed with Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin A, calcium, and protein.
It is the perfect fruit for making smoothies, juices (always include fiber), and fruit salads.
Vitamin C in oranges can boost your immune system, and detoxify your body. It contributes to the firmness of your skin and reduces skin dryness which is a classic sign of hypothyroidism. It can also help regulate blood pressure.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, it’s advised to avoid consuming oranges on a daily basis. Oranges can cause further thyroid inflammation and disrupt hormone production.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a magic fruit that has tons of vitamins B and C. it also has a lot of dietary fiber and protein. It is the ideal addition to your daily meals.
Pineapple is a good source of energy that can fight fatigue and weakness due to hypothyroidism. It is rich in antioxidants which can help your thyroid gland function properly once again. Additionally, it is rich in manganese. Manganese aids in calcium absorption and bone health, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and much more.
Only 150 grams of pineapple has the power to reduce your thyroid symptoms. This power fruit can reduce the risks of osteoporosis, gout, and systemic inflammation.
Which fruit is good for thyroid: hyperthyroidism?
Fruits for hyperthyroidism should be the ones that help slow down metabolism, and provide more calories and good fats, along with a generous serving of vitamins and minerals.
Those with hyperthyroidism should eat fresh fruits only in moderation. For example, if you have hyperthyroidism, you can eat bananas, pineapple, berries, and avocados as well. However, you should eat only around 10-40 mg per day.
It may seem a little confusing at first. Your metabolism rate is higher, you are burning calories faster, so why should you eat a smaller portion of fruits?
Well, hyperthyroidism may mean that your body already has enough of the vitamins or minerals that these fruits contain. Overloading your body with nutrients can be just as harmful as chronic nutrient deficiencies.
At the same time, bananas, pineapples, citrus fruits, and avocados contain pectin. It is a protein that can help your body flush out toxins including mercury. Studies have shown an integral relationship between excess mercury levels and abnormal thyroid functions.
Several people with Graves’ disease already follow AIP (autoimmune protocol) diet. This elimination diet permits the inclusion of apples, berries, and avocados due to their low glycemic index. They do not raise blood sugar levels or increase inflammation.
For those with hyperthyroidism, fruits like apples, bananas, pineapples, citrus fruits, berries, and avocados are excellent choices, provided they are consumed in moderation.
Are dry fruits good for thyroid function?
A lot of people believe that dry fruits are very high in calories, and they can contribute to rapid weight gain. However, even dry fruits in moderation can help you reverse your thyroid issues.
Now, which dry fruits are good for thyroid functions? How will you know which ones you should avoid and which ones you should always include in your everyday diet?
Let’s find out!
Macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, and almonds are great for supporting healthy thyroid function. They have a considerable amount of selenium. It is an essential amino acid that is critical for maintaining hormone pathways, protein metabolisms, and the immune system. Additional sources of selenium can include Brazil nuts, dried kiwi, raisins, dried apricots, as well as dried cranberries and blueberries.
Incorporating nuts into your salad adds a delicious crunch and variety to your meal. All dry fruits for thyroid patients mentioned here are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential minerals. They help in lowering cholesterol levels, balancing blood sugar, and helping in calorie burning.
Avoid eating too many dried fruits, including nuts. They can contribute to weight gain if you have severe hypothyroidism.
