Low thyroid function, also known as hypothyroidism, occurs when your thyroid gland ceases to produce enough thyroid hormone, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The thyroid is located at the front of your neck and is responsible for several functions within the body. Low thyroid can be caused by genetics, diet, gender or age, and symptoms include fatigue, slow pulse rate, weight gain, depression, sensitivity to cold, headaches and constipation. Drug therapies are the most common treatment for a low thyroid, but dietary modifications can also be helpful. Consult your doctor before you attempt to change your diet if you have a low thyroid.
Step 1
Consume foods that are naturally high in tyrosine, recommends the Low Thyroid Diet website. Tyrosine supports thyroid function and is available in foods such as cod, haddock, tuna, salmon, shrimp, crab, eggs, cheese, cottage cheese, chicken, turkey, berries, almonds, bananas and avocados.
Step 2
Eat foods that are higher in iodine to give your thyroid a boost. Foods such as seaweed or kelp provide high amounts of iodine.
Step 3
Eat foods that are high in antioxidants such as blueberries, tomatoes, cherries, bell pepper and squash.
Step 4
Avoid foods that will naturally interfere with the function of your thyroid. Foods like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, spinach, kale, turnips, soybeans, peanuts and cauliflower can cause problems with a low thyroid.
Tips and Warnings
- If you take a synthetic thyroid hormone, talk to your doctor about any foods that could possibly interfere with absorption.
