Foods To Help Thyroid Function

The thyroid gland is an essential aspect to overall health and happiness. Located in the lower part of the neck, the thyroid's main function is to secrete hormones into the body. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid hormones deliver energy to the cells in the body. Common issues with the thyroid include both over and under active secretion, known as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Problems with the thyroid gland can cause a host of problems including weight gain, fatigue, sleeping disorders, anxiety, depression, allergies, skin diseases, pains and gastrointestinal problems.

Vegetables

When the thyroid is overactive, there is a need to suppress thyroid function to decrease the amount of hormones being produced. Raw vegetables such as brussels sprouts, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, turnips, kale and beans contain goitrogen, a substance which prevents the thyroid gland from working correctly by blocking the uptake of iodine. This helps to reduce excess hormones from being produced because iodine is needed for proper thyroid function.

Polyunsaturated Fats

Polyunsaturated fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are known as essential fatty acids, because they cannot be produced in the body and must be obtained through the diet. One important function of the thyroid gland's hormones is to maintain metabolism. Since essential fatty acids are involved in metabolizing nutrients, they assist the thyroid in this role. These omega-3 and omega-6 fats also act as anti-inflammatory agents, affect neurological function, and perform a host of other functions.

Iodine, Selenium and Zinc

The thyroid gland depends on some minerals to maintain production of bodily hormones. When there is deficient iodine in the blood, the thyroid will increase in size, a condition known as a goiter, in its own effort to filter more blood to gain access to iodine. Iodine can be found in foods, such as yogurt, cow's milk and some kinds of cheese. Vitamin E is a helpful agent in the absorption of iodine. Selenium deficiency is a factor in low thyroid function. The thyroid produces several hormones, and needs to produce them in a balanced ratio. Lack of selenium in the body hinders this balancing process, and effects normal thyroid function. Sources of selenium in the diet include seafood and shellfish, beef liver and kidney, eggs, sunflower and sesame seeds. Zinc is a mineral that improves thyroid health in middle-aged and elderly men and women. In the later years, both selenium and zinc deficiencies become more common. Zinc supplementation may be recommended but it may take months for it to affect a chronic thyroid problem. Always consult a physician before beginning to supplement with minerals.

Foods to Avoid

Soy products which are not organic are highly processed and contain unnatural hormones. These hormones can confuse the body and interfere with normal thyroid function. Natural, organic soy products are healthier and safer to consume regularly. Raw vegetables will slow the thyroid function, but when cooked the iodine-blocking agent is deactivated. Refined sugar and processed foods affect thyroid function because of the spike in blood sugar caused and the resulting hormones needed in the body to stabilize it. If too much sugar is being consumed regularly, the thyroid will tire and become less efficient.