Your thyroid gland produces hormones that are important for healthy energy levels, metabolism and moods. If you have hypothyroidism, your thyroid produces too few hormones. Hyperthyroidism causes excessive hormone production. Both diseases are typically treatable through medications. A healthy diet may also help restore proper thyroid balance, reduce your symptoms and help prevent complications. For best results, seek specified guidance from your doctor or dietitian before making major dietary changes.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide valuable amounts of protein, fiber and B-vitamins, which play an important role in metabolism and energy. Since whole grains digest more efficiently than refined grains, such as white flour, they are low-glycemic, meaning they have a mild impact on your blood sugar levels. Managing glycemic stress can help restore proper thyroid levels, according to Dr. Christiane Northrup, author and women's health expert. Replacing enriched breads, cereal, pasta and snack foods with whole grains is one valuable way of accomplishing this. Try incorporating whole grain cereal or steel-cut oats into your breakfast meals and brown rice, wild rice, pearled barley or quinoa into your lunch and dinner meals. If you enjoy salty snacks, enjoy air-popped popcorn in place of potato chips or pretzels. As fiber-rich foods, whole grains may also help reduce constipation associated with hypothyroidism.
Fruits and Vegetables
Replacing vegetables that may interfere with thyroid function, such as leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage, with thyroid-friendly fruits and vegetables may also improve your hormone levels. People with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism consume antioxidant-rich varieties, such as berries, tomatoes, cherries, bell peppers and squash, for potentially fewer symptoms. Avoid fruit juices and canned fruit stored in heavy syrup, which may offset blood sugar and interfere with your energy and appetite. As relatively low-calorie, fiber-rich foods, fruits and vegetables may also enhance appetite control, healthy weight loss and digestive function.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, sardines and halibut, are high in protein, which promotes blood sugar balance and omega-3 fatty acids. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that people with thyroid disease consume omega-3 fatty acids regularly for improved immune function and reduced inflammation. For heightened benefits, choose baked, steamed or broiled cold-water fish over fatty meats, which may worsen inflammation and heart-health.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds provide heart-healthy fats, protein and helpful micronutrients, such as selenium. A selenium deficiency can exacerbate thyroid disease, according to "The Everything Health Guide to Thyroid Disease" by Theodore Friedman, Theodore C. Friedman and Winnie Yu. As calorie-rich foods, eating more nuts and seeds may reduce unnecessary weight loss linked with hyperthyroidism. If you do not carry excess weight, consume modest portions. Add ground flaxseed, walnuts or canola oil to your diet for omega-3 fatty acid benefits. Since flaxseed is also high in fiber, it may help alleviate constipation.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
- Dr. Northrup: Thyroid Disease; Christiane Northrup,M.D.; July 9, 2009
- "The Everything Health Guide to Thyroid Disease: Professional Advice on Getting the Right Diagnosis, Managing Your Symptoms, And Feeling Great"; Theodore Friedman, et al.; 2006
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