Goiter is the swelling of the thyroid gland, which is a small gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland produces thyroxine and triidothyronine, hormones important for bodily functions such as metabolism and the control of body temperature. Goiter may be the result of inadequate supply of thyroid hormone, tissue growth within the thyroid or a deficiency of iodine, a mineral the thyroid gland uses to make thyroid hormones.
Iodine
In the United States, goiter caused by iodine deficiency is not common because most foods are prepared using iodized salt. Iodine deficiency is still common in developing countries in Africa, Asia and South America, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Patients with goiter-caused iodine deficiency should increase their intake of iodine, which is in iodized salt and seafood such as shrimp, seaweed and shellfish.
Hormone-inhibiting Foods
Eating large amounts of foods that inhibit thyroid hormone production may contribute to goiter, according to the Mayo Clinic site. Hormone-inhibiting foods include cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli. Brussel sprouts, turnips, rutabagas, mustard greens, tofu, tempheh, soy beans and peanuts. Underproduction of thyroid hormones causes the thyroid gland to swell.
Balanced Diet
Patients with goiter should eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products, according to Drugs.com. These foods help keep the thyroid gland healthy and functioning properly. Poor nutrition can cause the thyroid gland to produce low amounts of thyroid hormones.
Goiter Symptoms
Patients with goiter experience symptoms such as swelling at the base of the neck, rapid heart rate, increased sweating, agitation, shaking, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, tight feeling in the chest, dizziness and neck vein distension when raising your arms above the neck, according to the Mayo Clinic site. A swollen thyroid gland may cause compression of the trachea and esophagus, leading to breathing problems such as wheezing, shortness of breath and coughing, as well as swallowing problems.
