Foods To Eat For A Slow Thyroid

Hypothyroidism, also referred to as an underactive or "slow" thyroid, is a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too few hormones. Without sufficient amounts of these hormones, which contribute to healthy energy levels and metabolism, you may experience lethargy, weight gain, depressive moods, constipation and/or menstrual irregularities. Hypothyroidism is treatable, typically through use of synthetic thyroid therapy. A healthy diet, inclusive of particular foods, may further reduce your symptoms and help prevent or manage complications.

Vegetables

Vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that promote your body's ability to defend itself from infection and disease. As fiber-rich, low-calorie foods, non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots and leafy greens enhance satiety between meals and can help you manage weight gain caused by hypothyroidism. Physician and author of "Food as Medicine" Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa recommends emphasizing iodine-rich vegetables -- such as sea vegetables including algae and kelp -- in your diet for improved thyroid function and tone.

Fruits

Fruits, like vegetables, provide an assortment of nutrients and rich amounts of fiber. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that hypothyroidism patients consume antioxidant-rich varieties in particular for improved symptoms. Fruits particularly rich in disease-fighting nutrients and fiber include berries, cherries, oranges, grapefruit, tomatoes, red plums, kiwifruit, cantaloupe, papaya, mangoes and red grapes. Choose whole, fresh fruits over juices, dried fruit and fruit stored in heavy syrup, which provide fewer nutrients and may disrupt your energy and blood sugar levels.

Plant-Based Protein

Protein provides amino acids -- the building blocks of lean tissue. Protein-rich foods also promote lean tissue repair, fullness between meals and positive brain function, which is important since mental "fogginess" often accompanies hypothyroidism. Khalsa recommends basing your diet on plant-based protein sources, such as beans, lentils, split-peas and tofu, which are lower in saturated fat and calories than red and processed meats, and provide potent nutrients known as phyto-chemicals that may improve your overall health. Nutritious dishes based on plant-based protein include low-fat vegetarian chili, edamame, lentil soup, split-pea soup, baked or steamed tofu and grilled bean patties.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are grains that have retained valuable nutrient, fiber and protein content during food processing. As low-glycemic foods, meaning they have a mild impact on blood sugar levels, whole grains promote appetite control, blood sugar balance and healthy digestive function. Whole grains are also valuable sources of B-vitamins for hypothyroidism patients, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. B-vitamins play an important role in the immune system, metabolism and energy. Examples of nutritious whole grain foods include 100 percent whole grain breads, pasta and cold cereals, long-grain brown rice, quinoa, wild rice, barley and air-popped popcorn.