Thyroid disease, especially hypothyroidism or an under-active thyroid gland, is a common disease in women. In addition to weight gain, a sluggish thyroid can result in elevated blood triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, according to an article in "Clinical Diabetes" by Patricia Wu, M.D. While you may require thyroid hormone replacement medication, some dietary actions may help you lose weight. Talk to your health-care provider to determine the best plan for you.
Iodine
The mineral iodine is a building block for thyroid hormones, and a necessary part of our diet. Foods rich in iodine include fish, shellfish and dulse, a type of seaweed. According to Dr Edward Bauman of the Institute for Educational Therapy, use of iodine-fortified salt is not recommended because it also contains aluminum and sugar-stabilizing agents, which can be irritating to your thyroid.
However, too much iodine can be problematic. If you are not sure if your intake is appropriate, talk to your health-care provider or dietitian to determine what is right for you.
Glycemic Control
If you suffer from hypothyroidism, you may find weight loss a challenge. Not every diet is right for all individuals, but if you follow a lower carbohydrate and higher protein diet, it may help you shed the extra pounds. However, if you also have high cholesterol levels, choose very low-fat protein sources.
Foods to avoid include beets, carrots, corn, peas, potatoes, bananas, oranges, watermelon, raisins, white bread, rolls and pasta, white rice, sugar and other products made with refined flour. When digested, these foods are easily converted to sugar, can raise the glucose levels in your blood and are higher on the glycemic index.
Protein
Some individuals are sensitive to the hormones found in many types of animal protein. If possible, replace meat with organic varieties of lean protein, which are hormone-free. Adding more fish to the diet is also helpful to those with thyroid disease. Ocean fish rich in thyroid-friendly fatty acids are the better choice. If weight loss is part of your goal, protein provides a feeling of satiety because it requires more time to digest.
Fiber
Like protein, foods rich in fiber take longer to digest, which may produce a feeling of fullness. They are also essential in the elimination process. Fiber-rich foods include beans, whole grains, green leafy vegetables and fruit. Seeds are also good choices to increase your fiber intake. Examples include pumpkin, chia and flax.
