A sluggish thyroid can result in weight gain, fatigue, slowed heart rate, hair loss, dry skin and hair and loss of appetite, according to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Many health care professionals believe that adding certain foods to your diet can boost thyroid function and promote a healthier metabolic rate. Adding these foods into your diet is not meant to replace your current medications or medical treatments. Consult with your doctor before altering your diet to support thyroid function.
Kelp
Kelp, a type of seaweed, contains high levels of iodine, which the thyroid depends on to function, and is recommended by some alternative health practitioners to boost a sluggish thyroid. Kelp is found in nori, a wrap used to make sushi rolls. Kelp can also be used on salads or as a salt replacement when in flake form.
Although many alternative health practitioners believe that adding kelp to the diet can boost thyroid function, some physicians believe that it contains too much iodine and discourage its use, writes Dr. Robert Volpe, a contributing author for "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies." Consuming high amounts of kelp may be dangerous for those who have a history of high blood pressure. Consult with your doctor before adding kelp to the diet, especially if you are currently being treated for a thyroid disorder or high blood pressure.
Complex Carbohydrates
Eat a diet rich in complex carbohydrates to boost an under-active thyroid. In fact, according to Dr. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," refined and processed foods, such as sugar and white flour, should be avoided by individuals that have a sluggish thyroid. Fatty foods should also be avoided because individuals with sluggish thyroids are generally more likely to have high cholesterol than those with normally functioning thyroids, writes Dr. Volpe, contributing author of "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies." Instead, eat foods containing complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, low-fat or nonfat yogurt, cheese and milk and whole-grain breads and cereals.
Essential Fatty Acids
Foods high in essential fatty acids, such as Omega 3 and Omega 6, are also reputed to have a role in boosting thyroid function. According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, these essential fatty acids are not naturally produced by the body and must be included in the diet to maintain a healthy body. Foods such as flax seeds are rich in both Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are present in fish, garlic, olive oil, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Omega 3 fatty acids also are present in fish oil supplements.
Do not take fish oil supplements without first consulting with your physician, as these supplements may interact with other medications.
References
- "Prescription fo Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies"; Selene Yeager; 1998
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
- The University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega 3 Fatty Acids
