An underactive thyroid gland causes several health problems. It slows the metabolic processes throughout the body, which can result in fatigue, irritability and weight gain. How you eat has an effect on your health when you have a thyroid condition. Some foods can negatively affect thyroid health, while other foods may help improve function.
Minimize Goitrogens
Goitrogens are chemicals occurring naturally in foods that may affect thyroid function by limiting the amount of hormones the thyroid produces. The term "goitrogen" is derived from the word "goiter," which is a swelling of the thyroid gland. Goitrogenic foods include gluten-containing grains such as wheat, rye and barley; soy foods such as soybean oil, tofu, soy milk and edamame; and cruciferous vegetables. While eating goitrogenic foods occasionally won't have a significant effect on your thyroid, if you eat them regularly and in large amounts, you could stress an already overtaxed thyroid.
Get Your Iodine
Iodine is a required element for normal thyroid function. Iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism and goiter. Ensuring adequate iodine intake can help prevent hypothyroidism and may help in cases of existing hypothyroidism. Iodine is present in iodized salt, which is the primary source of iodine in the Western diet. If you avoid salt, chances are you aren't getting enough iodine. Other iodine-rich foods include sea vegetables, yogurt, eggs, strawberries and cow's milk.
Eat Selenium-Rich Foods
Selenium is important in thyroid regulation. The trace mineral activates an enzyme that helps convert thyroid hormones for use in the body. It also reduces inflammation in patients with an autoimmune form of hypothyroidism called Hashimoto's disease. The best way to get selenium in your diet is by eating selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, mushrooms and fish. Selenium supplementation can lead to toxicity, so talk with your doctor if you plan to supplement this mineral.
Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Antioxidant-rich foods and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, which is present in many hypothyroid patients, according "The Thyroid Diet" author Mary J. Shomon. Foods high in antioxidants include fresh fruits, vegetables and berries, while omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, flax and nuts.
References
- Women to Women: Thyroid Health
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Iodine
- "The Thyroid Diet"; Mary J. Shomon; 2004
