The thyroid is one of the largest endocrine glands in the body and is responsible for the rate at which your body burns energy and makes proteins. This gland produces various hormones that regulate various bodily functions, such as metabolism, and controls the rate for other bodily functions' work. Thyroid disorders are a common problem, according to the U.S. Office of Minority Health, affecting over 27 million people with an overactive or underactive metabolism. If you are diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, there are several foods that can help regulate it.
Iodine-rich Foods
Iodine is an extremely important element that helps your thyroid produce hormones. As such, if you have a thyroid disorder, you need to make sure you are getting enough iodine. Seaweed (especially kelp) is extremely rich in iodine. Try to have a salad of with seaweed in it at least twice per week. Other foods that are rich in iodine are raw asparagus, avocado, green peppers and goat cheese. Adding these to your diet will help you get the correct level of iodine needed to support the thyroid.
Minerals
The thyroid needs several different vitamins and minerals in order for it to function properly. Copper and iron will do the most good for people with a thyroid condition, according to an article in the July 4, 2005, edition of "For The Record." Copper can be found in such foods as oysters and clams (which, incidentally, also provide iodine). You can also find copper in various nuts, like cashews and almonds, and sunflower seeds. Iron is mostly found in various foods such as red meat, poultry, eggs, some fruit, and bread and grain products.
Vegetables
Dark green leafy vegetables, like spinach or romaine lettuce, are great for thyroid conditions because they also contain several helpful vitamins and minerals. While a great source of iron, these vegetables also provide you with magnesium, zinc, and calcium. Adding a vegetable that is rich in vitamin C, such as a tomato, will help the body process the iron faster, which will help to regulate the thyroid.
