The thyroid is a gland in the neck that produces hormones and manages the metabolic system. Unfortunately, not everyone's thyroid functions just as it should. According to the National Institutes of Health, millions of Americans have either hyperthyroidism, a thyroid that acts too fast, or hypothyroidism, a thyroid that acts too slowly. Leaving either one of these conditions untreated can lead to weight problems and numerous other health issues such as hair loss and heart beat irregularities. Many people take medications to control their thyroid gland, yet eating healthy can also help.
Step 1
Book an appointment with a registered dietitian to talk about your specific health needs and get a diet plan. Dietitians are specifically trained to help people with medical problems manage their health through proper eating. She can help to create a meal plan for you and give you ideas of how to change your daily eating habits. Since you have a medical condition which requires intervention, most insurance companies will cover an appointment with a dietitian. Simply call up your insurance company and ask.
Step 2
Avoid foods like walnuts and soybeans if you have hypothyroidism. The Mayo Clinic states that both walnuts and soybeans contain plant compounds, which further reduces the effectiveness of the thyroid hormone, slowing down the metabolism. Eating foods like these can contribute to weight gain if your metabolism is already slow. Foods rich in dietary fiber can also interfere with the function of the thyroid gland, according to the Mayo Clinic. While you shouldn't avoid dietary fiber altogether, try to make small changes by eating fresh fruit instead of dried fruit and cooked vegetables instead of raw vegetables, as these versions have less fiber.
Step 3
Stop taking calcium supplements if your thyroid function is low. Dr. Todd Nippoldt of the Mayo Clinic states that calcium blocks the absorbsion of medications commonly used to treat underactive thyroids such as Synthroid and Levothroid. While eating calcium in the diet through foods like milk, cheese, spinach and certain nuts is considered safe, supplementation of the mineral calcium should be avoided.
Step 4
Choose to eat goitrogenic foods every day if you have hyperthyroidism, or an overly active thyroid. According to the George Mateljan Foundation, goitrogenic foods such as cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale and turnips can all reduce the effectiveness of the thyroid gland in emitting hormones. This will help to calm your overactive thyroid and slow down your fast metabolism. It is also important to eat enough calories so that you can prevent excess weight loss. Foods high in calories include olive oil, nuts, seeds, meats and full-fat dairy products.
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