Underactive thyroid, also called hypothyroidism, occurs when the thyroid does not produce a sufficient amount of the thyroid hormone, which is responsible for controlling metabolism. When the thyroid hormone is low, a person may experience a range of symptoms, such as hair loss, joint pain, depression, weight gain, fatigue and infertility, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Fortunately, including certain things in the diet can play a part in stimulating the thyroid gland and alleviating many of these symptoms.
Fiber
A beneficial group of foods to eat for underactive thyroid includes foods rich in fiber, such as fruit, whole grains, oatmeal and vegetables, says the ForSciences website. Beans, such as lima and baked beans, are another readily available source of high fiber, with around 10 g per cup. Hypothyroidism causes a lower metabolism rate, which often results in weight gain. Diets high in fiber aid in weight loss as well as promote a healthy digestive system. In addition, fiber helps reduce elevated serum cholesterol, another common problem of hypothyroidism.
Selenium
Foods rich in selenium are also highly beneficial to add to your diet if you have an underactive thyroid. This mineral is found in foods such as Brazil nuts, turkey and seafood such as tuna, swordfish, herring and oysters. The amount of selenium needed for the diet is actually minimal and consumed very easily in a small helping of any of these items daily. An overabundance can even be detrimental, so limited quantities are suggested. In the proper amounts, the body uses selenium to transform the thyroid hormone into a dynamic and usable form, according to ForSciences.
Iodine
Foods containing iodine are also important to include when eating for an underactive thyroid. Iodine is contained in saltwater fish and in dairy products, such as cheddar cheese, eggs and mayonnaise. According to the Mayo Clinic website, iodine deficiencies in developed countries are rare, and most people may not need to add additional iodine to their diet, because they consume sufficient amounts in other foods that contain iodized salt.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods, called goitrogenic foods, inhibit the thyroid and should be avoided, says the HerbCompanion website. These foods include broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, turnips, cassava root, horseradish, kale, peaches and pears. Particularly when eaten raw, these foods block the absorption of iodine and can suppress thyroid function.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- For Sciences: Foods That People With Hypothyroidism Should Eat
- Dietary Fiber Guide: Dietary Fiber Tips and Tricks
- Mayo Clinic: Can iodine supplements help regulate thyroid function in a person with hypothyroidism?
- Herb Companion: Best Foods For Hypothyroidism
