Hypothyroidism can be significantly impacted by your diet. While some meals can aid with the condition’s improvement, others can exacerbate its symptoms and make the treatment for hypothyroidism more difficult.
When the body does not produce enough thyroid hormones to meet its needs, a common illness known as hypothyroidism results. These hormones are essential for controlling metabolism, mending cells, and promoting growth. Thyroid hormone deficiency can result in a number of symptoms, including:
- Weariness
- Gaining weight
- Loss of hair
- Sensitivity to cold
- Changes in mood
Make sure to get a thyroid test from Thyrocare if you are experiencing these symptoms. Hypothyroidism must be treated with the right drugs. In addition, a healthy lifestyle and a balanced food are essential.
Which foods are important for those with hypothyroidism?
1. Foods rich in iodine:
Iodine is necessary for your body to make thyroid hormones. Iodine must come from your diet because the human body is unable to manufacture it on its own. Furthermore, a lack of iodine can result in goiter, another thyroid condition. For this reason, be sure to include foods high in iodine in your diet. Among the foods high in iodine are:
- Cheese made from milk
- Whole eggs
- Table salt that has been iodized
- Fish from saltwater
- Seaweed
2. Foods rich in selenium:
Thyroid hormone synthesis and thyroid health depend on the element selenium. Additionally, it possesses antioxidant qualities and guards against oxidative stress-induced thyroid damage. Among the foods high in selenium are:
- Brazil nuts
- Eggs
- Turkey
- Chicken
- Tuna
- Beef
- Shrimp
- Ham
- Oatmeal
- Brown rice
3. Foods rich in zinc
Another nutrient that is necessary for thyroid function and hormone synthesis is zinc. Zinc and selenium supplementation have also been linked to better thyroid health, according to a study. Among the foods high in zinc are:
- Beef
- Crab
- Oysters
- Pork
- Chicken
- Fortified cereals
- Legumes
- Yogurt
- Pumpkin seeds
Which foods should hypothyroid patients avoid?
Your thyroid health might be adversely affected by a variety of foods. Above all, these nutrients may exacerbate your thyroid condition:
1. Gluten
An autoimmune disorder called celiac disease destroys the lining of the small intestine and produces swelling. Hypothyroidism is frequently caused by Hashimoto’s illness. Celiac disease is more common in people with Hashimoto’s illness than in other people. According to certain research, patients with Hashimoto’s disease may benefit from improving thyroid function by removing gluten from their diet.
2. Processed foods
Extremely processed foods and added sugars should be avoided by those who have hypothyroidism. This will improve general health, weight control, and symptoms. Ultra-processed foods and beverages with added sugar include:
- Fast foods
- Cakes
- Donuts
- Hot dogs
- Soda
- Cookies
3. Goitrogens
When taken in excess, a substance called goitrogens can have a detrimental effect on your thyroid gland. Conversely, goitrogens in moderation are beneficial to your health. Therefore, avoid consuming high doses of goitrogens if you have hypothyroidism. Goitrogen-containing foods include:
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Broccoli rabe
- Collards
- Russian Kale
- Cauliflower
- Brussel sprouts
4. Soy
Soy can act as an intermediary in the thyroid hormone synthesis pathway, according to numerous studies. Soy-based foods include:
- Soy milk
- Soy sauce
- Tofu
- Edamame
- Miso
For those with hypothyroidism, there is no “best diet,” but you should attempt to include more nutrient-dense foods and stay away from foods that aggravate your condition. Above all, be sure to get a thyrocare blood test to check the health of your thyroid.
