Your thyroid gland produces hormones that affect your metabolism and energy. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by excess hormone production by the thyroid. As a result, you may experience shortness of breath, irregular periods, anxiety, tremors, sleeping difficulties and rapid heartbeats. Adjusting your diet may minimize hyperthyroid symptoms. However, you may require medical intervention if your condition is severe.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits provide nutrients such as antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, which help fight disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, consuming antioxidant-rich food sources is beneficial in reducing hyperactive thyroid symptoms. Vegetables and fruits rich in antioxidants include broccoli, squash, sweet potatoes, kiwi, citrus fruits, berries, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, leafy greens, red peppers, green peppers, carrots and tomatoes. For optimum health benefits, eat a wide array of fresh vegetables and fruits.
Protein-based Foods
Protein-rich foods promote sustained energy, as they mildly impact your blood sugar. According to "The Complete Thyroid Book" by Dr. Sara Rosenthal, dairy products, fish, poultry and other protein-rich foods contain tryptophan, an amino acid nutrient that balances hormones produced by your thyroid gland. To prevent excessive saturated fat intake, select lean protein sources over whole milk or fatty red meat.
Whole Grains
Whole grains play a vital role in maintaining your metabolism and energy level. They also provide fiber, B vitamins and other healthy nutrients. Unless you have an allergy, whole grains are healthy sources of B vitamins if you suffer from a hyperactive thyroid, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you are intolerant or allergic to gluten -- a protein found in rye, barley and wheat -- consume gluten-free grains such as popcorn, brown rice, wild rice and gluten-free oats. Otherwise, incorporate whole-grain sources such as old-fashioned or steel-cut oatmeal, long-grain rice dishes and 100 percent whole-grain breads, pasta and cold cereals into your diet regularly.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fat sources, including canola oil, olive oil, seeds, nuts and avocados, help your body absorb nutrients, support cardiovascular wellness and enhance brain function. In the "The Complete Thyroid Book," author Sara Rosenthal says sesame seeds, nuts and peanut butter are valuable sources of tryptophan, which promotes healthy thyroid function. For best results, replace saturated fat sources, such as high-fat cheeses and butter, with healthy fats often.
References
- American Thyroid Association: Hyperthyroidism
- MayoClinic.com: Coping with Anxiety: Can Diet Make a Difference?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- "The Complete Thyroid Book"; Sara Rosenthal; 2008
