Thyroid problems can include an overactive thyroid or underactive thyroid. Depending on your thyroid problem, foods can decrease or increase healthy thyroid functions. Doctor-prescribed thyroid treatments are used simultaneously with diet adjustments, Sara Rosenthal notes in "The Complete Thyroid Book." If you have additional questions, talk to your physician to determine treatment for your hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables such as mustard greens, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, turnips, cauliflower, kale, spinach and cabbage are good if you have an overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism. However, if you have hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid, do not consume these vegetables as they reduce thyroid functions, Rosenthal reports. Instead, eat vegetables such as red peppers and orange vegetables like squash and carrots, which contain antioxidants and vitamins that promote thyroid functions.
Legumes
Like certain vegetables, legumes including peanuts, soybeans and other beans can worsen hypothyroidism while improving hyperthyroidism, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. Because soybeans can interfere with your thyroid hormone medication, speak to your physician before consuming soybeans. For hypothyroidism, eat lima beans, which provide healthy amounts of tyrosine, an amino acid that might elevate thyroid levels.
Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids promote thyroid functions. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids can help your body produce thyroid-friendly hormones, reduce inflammation and assist thyroid functions. Omega-3 fatty acid nutrients are found in walnuts, olive oil and canola oil. They are also found in fish such as lake trout, salmon, sardines, herring, halibut, tuna and mackerel.
Yogurt
Consuming yogurt in your diet regimen can decrease the side effects of hyperthyroidism. Yogurt decreases thyroid problems because it contains live and active bacteria, or lactobacillus acidophilus, which maintains and strengthens your immune system, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. You can also enjoy kefir and yogurt with fresh fruit. Kefir is a cultured milk beverage that is similar to yogurt.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- "The Complete Thyroid Book"; Sara Rosenthal; 2008
- U.S. Department of Agriculture: USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 22
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tyrosine
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Dr. Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2007
