The thyroid gland performs numerous functions in the body, including making energy and regulating body temperature. Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland, consisting of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Low thyroid is sometimes caused by autoimmune disease, certain medications and radiation therapy. It is accompanied by a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue to depression. Although synthetic thyroid hormone is frequently used as treatment, research shows that adhering to a specific diet can have beneficial effects on improving thyroid function. (reference 1)
Step 1
Eat zinc rich foods. Researchers examined the effects of zinc supplementation on subjects' thyroid hormones while they performed exercise to exhaustion, according to findings reported in the 2006 issue of "Neuro Endocrinology Letters." They found that four weeks of zinc supplementation prevented the decline in thyroid hormone normally associated with exercise to exhaustion. Incorporate zinc foods, such as oysters, wheat germ, peanuts and red meat into your diet to boost thyroid function. (reference 2)
Step 2
Increase iodine intake. The trace mineral iodine is crucial to the production of the thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine and thyroxine, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Insufficient iodine levels can interrupt normal thyroid activity, which can lead to hypothyroidism. Iodine-loaded foods include the following: idolized salt, eggs, meat, kelp and haddock.
Step 3
Supplement with vitamin D. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with thyroid disease, according to the Progressive Health website. Vitamin D is critical for improving the thyroid gland and decreasing the risk for developing autoimmune diseases that can result in hypothyroidism. If you're not receiving direct sunlight or eating vitamin D-loaded foods, vitamin D supplementation can be an effective insurance policy for increasing thyroid activity. Consult with your health care provider before taking any supplements for hypothyroidism.
