How does your diet affect your thyroid? For those with thyroid conditions, diet can be the difference in managing symptoms. In some cases, the conditions themselves are directly responsible for ailments. So what can you do to help your thyroid?
The 3 primary nutrients for thyroid health are iodine, selenium and zinc.
Iodized table salt is a quick and effective way to ensure that you have enough iodine in your diet, although deficiency mostly affects third world countries.
Selenium, found in Brazil nuts, tuna, eggs and legumes, helps to activate the hormones released by your thyroid, which is a common problem for sufferers of hypothyroidism. They are also antioxidants, helping to protect the thyroid in the process.
Zinc can be found in most first world country diets in foods like chicken and beef, and also helps to activate hormones produced by the thyroid.
Other foods that are beneficial for your thyroid include:
Meats: Including lamb, beef and chicken.
Seafood: Such as salmon, tuna, halibut etc.
Fruits and Vegetables: All fruit and veg; be sure to cook cruciferous veg like broccoli.
Seeds and gluten-free grains: Quinoa, chia seeds, flaxseed and rice.
Dairy: All dairy products.
Supplements of the hormones produced by the thyroid are a common prescription for thyroid problems. T3 medication UK is one of these hormones which are used to regulate cholesterol, metabolism, heart rate and body temperature. Supplements are especially effective for those suffering from Hypothyroidism, where the thyroids aren’t producing enough hormones.
Diets with low to moderate carbs are effective for maintaining a healthy weight. Too low an intake can impact your thyroid’s hormone production.
What foods should you avoid to keep your thyroid healthy?
Millet and highly processed foods can be harmful, while iodine and selenium supplements should be avoided unless advised by your doctor. These irritants and goitrogens should be eaten in moderation:
Gluten: Including pasta, bread, cereals, etc.
Certain fruits: such as peaches, pears and strawberries.
Cruciferous vegetables: as mentioned before like kale, spinach and broccoli.
Drinks: such as coffee, green tea and alcohol which irritate your thyroid.
Gluten should be avoided especially as it is tied to one of the main causes of thyroid problems: Hashimoto’s disease. This autoimmune disease is often linked with celiac disease, where the body attacks ingested gluten.
In conclusion, whether it be preventative action or treatment for a condition, it’s wise to consider your thyroid. The hormones produced are used in almost every physiological process in the body; it’s no surprise the breadth of problems caused. Taking control of your diet can help assist treatment or simply help you maintain a healthier, happier lifestyle.
