Thyroid problems are usually due to too much or too little circulating thyroid hormone in the body. Hyperthyroidism happens when the gland overproduces and causes your metabolism to speed up; symptoms include rapid heart rate, shakiness and tremor, and increased appetite accompanied by weight loss. More common, especially in women, is hypothyroidism, when too little hormone is produced. Its symptoms include fatigue, sensitivity to cold and weight gain. Foods and supplements play an important role in supporting or interfering with thyroid function.
Helpful Foods for Hyperthyroidism
To help reduce symptoms of hyperthyroidism, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends the following: foods high in B-vitamins and iron for energy, such as whole grains, fresh vegetables and sea vegetables; antioxidants, which help eliminate the excess thyroid produced, including blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, squash, and bell pepper; and healthy cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil. The following supplements address nutritional deficiencies: omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C and alpha-lipoic acid. L-carnitine decreases thyroid activity. In the herb family, green tea is an antioxidant to scavenge free radicals and lemon balm helps normalize the thyroid. A pro-biotic supplement is useful for gastrointestinal health.
Foods to Avoid for Hyperthyroidism
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you should avoid refined foods like white bread, pasta and sugar; replace them with healthier choices. Suspected allergens in dairy, wheat, soy, and food additives should also be avoided. You can replace processed meats, fast foods, lunch meats with chemical additives and red meat with cold water fish and beans as leaner, healthier protein sources. Trans-fats, alcohol and tobacco are not good choices for a healthy diet. Consult with your doctor before using caffeine because of its stimulating effects.
Helpful Foods for Hypothyroidism
Foods high in B-vitamins create energy and stamina and are helpful for hypothyroidism, as are berries and vegetables that are high in antioxidants. The Life Extension Foundation recommends the following supplements in the treatment of hypothyroidism: vitamin A, vitamin B complex, B12, vitamins C and E, coenzyme Q10, and the minerals magnesium, manganese, zinc and selenium. Deficiencies of these minerals can prevent the conversion of T4 hormone to the active form of T3. Iodine, found in kelp and seaweed, and the amino acid tyrosine are necessary to make T4 in the thyroid gland. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation. Herbs coleus and guggul can assist low thyroid function.
Foods to Avoid for Hypothyroidism
Avoid foods known as goitrogens, found in sweet potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, turnips, soybeans, rutabagas and peanuts, says the Life Extension Foundation. Goitrogens prevent the utilization of iodine and interfere with thyroid function. If you take thyroid medication, consult with your doctor before using soy products; they may interfere with thyroid absorption. The same is true of iron. Do not use alcohol or tobacco, and be cautious about caffeine. Consult your doctor before taking an iodine supplement. Most hypothyroidism is not caused by iodine deficiency.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- "Disease Prevention and Treatment", 4th edition; Life Extension Foundation; 2003
