The thyroid gland produces T4 and TSH, hormones that are critical to many metabolic processes in the body. Hypothyroidism is a disorder characterized by low thyroid function. When thyroid function decreases, individuals experience low energy, fatigue, weakness, dry skin, coarsening of hair, constipation, lethargy, memory impairment, a sensation of cold, slowed speech and weight gain. Although the disorder cannot be cured, it can be controlled in almost all patients by replacing the hormones with prescription T4 medication. In addition, patients should consult their doctors about dietary changes and nutritional supplementation to support healthy thyroid function.
Iodine
According to the American Thyroid Association, the trace element iodine is essential for thyroid gland function. It cannot be manufactured by the body and therefore must be obtained from the diet. Good sources of dietary iodine include sea vegetables such as kelp and nori and seafood such as shrimp, oysters and fish. Use iodized sea salt in regular cooking. Other food sources of iodine include eggs, asparagus, lima beans, mushrooms, spinach, sesame seeds, summer squash and Swiss chard. The American Thyroid Association also notes that too much or too little iodine may disrupt thyroid function. Patients should discuss their levels with a doctor to determine whether they should take supplements.
Selenium
Selenium is a micronutrient found in a number of proteins that are important for thyroid function. Selenium-containing proteins convert thyroid hormone T4 to its active form and also maintain thyroid hormones in the blood and tissues, says the American Thyroid Association. In addition, selenium regulates the metabolism of iodine in the body. Selenium can be found in Brazil nuts, tuna, organ meats, mushrooms, halibut, beef, soybeans and sunflower seeds. Many high-quality multivitamins also include selenium.
Zinc, Iron and Copper
Zinc, iron, and copper are trace metals linked to thyroid function. Zinc deficiency has been linked to low levels of thyroid hormones TSH and T4. Meat, seafood, soybeans, split peas, whole grains, sunflower seeds, pecans, Brazil nuts, almonds and walnuts provide rich sources of zinc. Some studies have demonstrated a link between iron deficiency, also called anemia and how the thyroid functions. Patients can boost iron levels through a supplement or through the diet by incorporating foods such as red meat, clams, oysters, organ meats, soybeans, pumpkin seeds, white beans, blackstrap molasses, lentils and spinach. Copper plays a key role in the body's ability to use dietary iodine to produce T4 thyroid hormone. Good sources of copper include beef, oysters, lobster, shiitake mushrooms, dark chocolate, crabmeat, tomato paste, pearled barley, nuts, beans and sunflower seeds, says the Women to Women website.
