Your thyroid is a small gland in your body that regulates the process of converting calories into energy and regulates your metabolism. When your thyroid is not functioning as well as it should, or is low, you may find that you have the tendency to gain weight, have bad acne, are lethargic or have brittle nails and dry skin. These are signs that your thyroid is not properly converting your calories to help your body. To bring your thyroid back to normal, following a diet rich in the nutrients that you may be deficient in is helpful.
Step 1
Consume foods rich in iodine. A 2006 issue of the "New England Journal of Medicine" reiterated the importance of iodine to the thyroid. It noted the fact that iodine has a noted impact on the function of the thyroid. Foods that are rich in the trace mineral iodine include seaweed, kelp and kelp extract, and leafy greens.
Step 2
Try adding some chili powder or red pepper flakes to your meal. Spicy foods rev up your metabolism and make up for a low-functioning thyroid. Adding a hint of chili sauce to a few of your meals each day can be enough to get your metabolism moving again.
Step 3
Choose foods high in vitamin A, which supports metabolic function and acts as an antioxidant for your body. Foods high in vitamin A include carrots, leafy greens and bright yellow vegetables. Eating these foods fresh as opposed to cooked, frozen or canned will preserve the most nutrients for your body and will give you the best benefit for your thyroid.
Step 4
Eat foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids can boost your metabolism and act as a powerful appetite suppressant so you don't overeat while your thyroid is not functioning as well as it should. Try a healthy diet of fish and nuts, and take a fish oil supplements to support your metabolism.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor if making dietary changes and taking an iodine supplement do not help your symptoms of a low-functioning thyroid. It may be a condition that needs to be treated medically with prescription medicine. With her help you can find yourself on your way to a better-functioning thyroid and better health.
