Thyroid disorders are common; millions of Americans, mostly women, suffer from thyroid disorder, according to Medline Plus. While no food can cure the most common thyroid disorders, dietary changes can help you manage your symptoms and avoid complications. Only a qualified medical professional can diagnose and treat thyroid disorders. Consult your physician about the right diet for you.
Identification
There are two main types of thyroid disorders, according to Kids Health. Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone while hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. Another thyroid disorder, called goiter, occurs when the thyroid swells to beyond its normal size,
Diet for Overactive Thyroid
According to MayoClinic.com, one of the symptoms of overactive thyroid is weight loss. The clinic recommends speaking to your doctor about increasing your calorie and protein consumption, especially if you've lost a large amount of weight due to your thyroid problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center also recommends eating foods high in B vitamins, such as whole grain breads, fresh vegetables, as well as foods high in antioxidants, such as blueberries, tomatoes, and squash.
Diet for Underactive Thyroid
There really isn't a diet for underactive thyroid, and no foods have been proven to increase thyroid function, according to Mayo Clinic endocrinologist Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D. However, Nippoldt reports that some foods can interfere with thyroid treatment. For example, eating too much fiber decreases the absorption of thyroid hormone replacement medication. Nippoldt recommends not eating walnuts or soy at the same time you take your thyroid medications.
Diet for Goiter
If you have goiter, or a swollen thyroid gland, treatment depends on the cause of your illness. If it's a result of under or over-active thyroid, follow the instructions given to you by your doctor. However, if goiter is a result of iodine deficiency, diet can help. The clinic recommends using iodized salt or eating sushi or sea vegetables -- also known as seaweed -- about once a week. The clinic also reports that shrimp and other shellfish are high in iodine. Your doctor may also want you to take iodine supplements.
Warning
Be cautious of any dietary regime that claims to be able to cure thyroid disease. Purveyors of health scams often target those who suffer from chronic conditions, reports the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC also recommends being wary of any diet or product advertised solely by personal testimonials, rather than empirical evidence. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
