Your thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones important for metabolism, moods and energy levels. A diagnosis of hypothyroidism or low thyroid means your body produces an insufficient amount of hormones, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. This often leads to weight gain, slow heartbeat, constipation, confusion, cold sensitivity and menstrual abnormalities. Although hypothyroidism is often treated with hormone medication, a healthy diet can reduce symptoms, enhance medical treatment and promote your overall health.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits strengthen your body and enhance your immune system because of their rich nutrient content. A diet rich in vegetables and fruits may significantly reduce low thyroid symptoms by enhancing satiation, remedying constipation and providing low-calorie foods. Limit your consumption of vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and leafy greens, which may interfere with thyroid functions, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Examples of foods that help with low thyroid include red plums, carrots, winter squash, cherries, blueberries, green bell peppers, sweet potatoes and tomatoes.
Whole Grains
Whole-grain sources provide B vitamins, fiber and other nutrients, which positively contributes to energy and metabolism levels. Whole grains also contain selenium, which stimulates thyroid functions, according to Dr. Christiane Northrup in "Energy Medicine for Women." Replace enriched flour products, such as pretzels and white bread, with healthier alternatives, including whole-wheat pasta, 100 percent whole-grain bread, oatmeal, quinoa, air-popped popcorn and pearled barley.
Poultry
Poultry sources provide zinc, iron, B vitamins, protein and other nutrients. If you suffer from a low thyroid disorder, an iron deficiency may worsen your symptoms. Incorporating iron-rich foods into your dietary regimen is important because iron supplements can interfere with thyroid medications. Choose lean poultry sources such as roasted, grilled or baked chicken and skinless turkey breasts, says the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Fish
Salmon, herring, mackerel, lake trout, sardines, flounder and albacore tuna all contain omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy essential fats are associated with positive brain and heart function. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that people with low thyroid disorders consume omega-3 fats on a regular basis for reduced inflammation and improved immune system functions. Fatty fish also promote blood sugar levels and provide healthy alternatives to processed and red meats.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- MayoClinic.com: Hypothyroidism Diet: Can Certain Foods increase Thyroid Function?
- "The Thyroid Solution: A Mind-Body Program for Beating Depression and Regaining Your Emotional and Physical Health"; Ridha Arem, M.D.; 2000
- "Energy Medicine for Women: Donna Eden, David Feinstein, Christiane Northrup; 2008
