The thyroid is a gland located in your neck that produces hormones that contribute to your energy and metabolism. Diseases that may affect the thyroid include hyperthyroidism, which causes excessive hormone production; hypothyroidism, which causes deficient hormone levels; noncancerous thyroid disease; and thyroid cancer. In addition to medical treatment, such as synthetic thyroid medication and, in some cases, surgery, a nutritious diet may help minimize your symptoms while promoting your overall health.
Thyroid-Friendly Vegetables
Vegetables supply rich amounts of fiber and antioxidants, which support your body's ability to defend itself from infections and disease. Since cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, may interfere with thyroid function, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that thyroid patients consume other antioxidant-rich varieties, such as sea vegetables, seaweed, tomatoes, squash and bell peppers. As high-fiber, relatively low-calorie foods, vegetables may also ease the process of weight management -- a common concern associated with hypothyroidism.
Colorful Fruits
Colorful fruits, like vegetables, are rich suppliers of fiber and antioxidants. Although additional research is needed, increasing your fruit intake may help reduce your risk for cancer and help your body fight cancer once you've acquired it, according to the National Cancer Institute. As naturally sweet foods, they provide nutritious alternatives to processed desserts and candy. Fruits particularly rich in fiber and nutrients include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, kiwi, cantaloupe, papaya, mango, plums and red grapes. Choose whole fruits over juices and canned fruit stored in heavy syrup, which provide less fiber and nutrients and may offset blood sugar balance and worsen your moods, energy and appetite.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have not been stripped of valuable nutrient, fiber and protein content during food processing. As a result, whole grain foods have a more positive effect on your blood sugar levels, digestive health, heart health and nutritional wellness. According to a 2010 article in "Today's Dietitian" by dietitian Cheryl Harris and Gary Kaplan, medical director of the Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine, many clinicians believe that eliminating gluten from the diet is an important nutritional remedy for people with a form of hypothyroidism known as Hashimoto's disease. In addition, a correlation stands between celiac disease -- a condition that causes harsh bodily reactions to gluten -- and thyroid disease. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease in addition to thyroid disease, incorporate gluten-free grains, such as brown rice, wild rice, gluten-free oats and popcorn, into your meals and snacks regularly. Otherwise, gluten-containing whole grain foods, such as whole wheat or whole grain breads, pasta and cereals, are valuable sources of fiber and nutrients.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, halibut and sardines, contains omega-3 fatty acids -- essential fats linked with positive brain function and heart health. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that people with thyroid disease consume omega-3 fats regularly for reduced inflammation and heightened immunity. Cold-water fish also provides nutritious alternatives to protein sources high in saturated fat, such as red and processed meats. Incorporate cold-water fish into healthy, balanced meals on a routine basis for best potential results.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- "Today's Dietitian"; Research Connects Celiac and Thyroid Diseases and Suggests a Gluten-Free Diet Benefits Both; Cheryl Harris, MPH, RD, Gary Kaplan, DO; Nov. 2010
- National Cancer Institute: Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention
