The thyroid is a gland located in your neck that produces hormones important for healthy energy levels and metabolism. If you develop a thyroid cyst or tumor, have thyroid cancer or if your thyroid is extremely overactive, your doctor may recommend thyroidectomy -- surgical removal of your thyroid gland. Following surgery, you'll likely require synthetic thyroid hormone therapy to prevent and manage symptoms similar to those of hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. Healthy dietary changes are also important.
Antioxidant-Rich Fruits
Colorful fruits are valuable sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that support your body's ability to protect itself from infection and disease. As water- and fiber-rich yet relatively low-calorie foods, fresh fruits may enhance appetite control and ease the process of weight management. This attribute is important, according to the author of "The Thyroid Diet: Manage Your Metabolism for Lasting Weight Loss," Mary J. Shomon, since weight gain may result from thyroid removal. Fruits particularly high in antioxidant content include berries, cherries, kiwi, cantaloupe, papaya, mangoes, red plums, grapes and avocados.
Thyroid-Friendly Vegetables
Like fruits, vegetables contain significant amounts of fiber and disease-fighting nutrients. Certain varieties, however, may interact with thyroid function and thyroid medications. For this reason, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends emphasizing thyroid-friendly vegetables, such as squash, tomatoes and bell peppers, and avoiding cruciferous vegetables, leafy greens and soybeans. Other vegetables suitable after thyroid removal include sweet potatoes, baked potatoes, string beans, onions, garlic, asparagus, carrots and mushrooms.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have retained valuable nutrient, protein and fiber content during food processing. As a result, they provide greater dietary benefits and have a milder impact on your blood sugar levels than refined grains, such as white flour. Shomon recommends that people with thyroid conditions consume carbohydrate sources that promote healthy blood sugar levels for improved energy, appetite control and mood balance. Whole grains digest more slowly and provide more satiation between meals than refined grains. Nutritious whole grain food options include 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, steel-cut or old fashioned oatmeal, brown rice, wild rice, quinoa and air-popped popcorn.
High-Quality Protein
Protein provides amino acids -- the building blocks of lean tissue. Increasing your intake of high-quality, protein-rich foods may help prevent hair loss associated with thyroid deficiencies, according to Shomon. Protein-rich foods also promote satiation and sustained energy levels. Valuable sources of protein include skinless white-meat poultry, egg whites, low-fat yogurt and milk, extra-lean red meat, legumes and fish. Due to their rich omega-3 fatty acid content, fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and sardines, may help prevent or alleviate inflammation linked with thyroid conditions and promote healthy cholesterol levels when consumed regularly.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- "The Thyroid Diet: Manage Your Metabolism for Lasting Weight Loss"; Mary J. Shomon; 2004
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