The thyroid gland is composed of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The thyroid has several functions in the body, including regulating heart rate, body temperature and energy levels. In addition, it controls the metabolic rate of every cell. Low thyroid function, also known as hypothyroidism, is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland does not manufacture enough thyroid hormone. This can produce symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness and weight gain. Evidence hints that certain foods contain nutrients that can help boost thyroid levels in the body.
Kale
Iodine, the trace mineral found in iodized salt, kale, strawberries, eggs and yogurt, might have positive effects on thyroid health by boosting thyroid hormone output. Most iodine in the body is stored in the thyroid gland and is required for the production of thyroid hormones. A lack of iodine can compromise thyroid function and often lead to hypothyroidism, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Selenium and Vitamin C Foods
The trace mineral selenium and vitamin C might play a critical role in improving thyroid function, according to a study conducted by lead author Roy Moncayo and fellow researchers from the Medical University of Innsbruck in Austria. Scientists discovered that patients suffering from thyroid disease had low levels of both selenium and vitamin C. Therefore, include selenium rich foods such as Brazil nuts, tuna and oats, and vitamin C foods such as citrus fruits, bell peppers and broccoli as a regular part of your daily diet.
Oysters
Zinc, a mineral found in oysters, wheat germ and red meat, might boost thyroid function. Lead investigator Christy Maxwell and colleagues from the University of Massachusetts discovered that zinc deficient subjects taking zinc supplementation for four months experienced increases in thyroid hormone output, according to research reported in the May 2007 issue of the "Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism."
Salmon
Vitamin D might have favorable effects on thyroid levels. Patients with thyroid problems often have low levels of vitamin D, which can not only compromise overall health, but can increase the risk for thyroid disease and hypothyroidism, according to the Progressive Health website. Incorporate vitamin D rich foods such as salmon, dairy products and green leafy vegetables into your daily diet.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Iodine
- BMC Endocrine Disorders: The role of selenium, vitamin C, and zinc in benign thyroid diseases and of selenium in malignant thyroid diseases: Low selenium levels are found in subacute and silent thyroiditis and in papillary and follicular carcinoma
- Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism: Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Thyroid Hormone Function
- Progressive Health: Vitamin D and Your Thyroid Gland
