A low thyroid, or hypothyroidism, takes place when the thyroid gland cannot produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism may cause symptoms like exhaustion, excess weight, high cholesterol or alopecia. Thyroid problems may develop because of an unhealthy diet or insufficient food consumption. There is no evidence that diet can prevent hypothyroidism, but some foods may decrease symptoms.
Whole Grains
Consuming whole grain foods can help reduce low thyroid symptoms, states The University of Maryland Medical Center. Whole grains, contain all the components of the grain seed; they are loaded with vitamins and minerals including a multitude of B vitamins. A diet rich in whole grains can help alleviate low thyroid symptoms like high cholesterol, constipation and weight gain, as well as help regulate blood glucose levels. Food sources of grain include brown rice, multi-grain breads, oats, oatmeal and millet.
Lean Protein
Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish should be part of the hypothyroid diet. Be sure to choose lean cuts because they contain fewer calories and saturated fats. Also, be mindful of how the meat is cooked; Broil, bake or grill instead of frying. Avoid processed and canned meats that contain preservatives.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables bolster and revitalize your immune mechanism due to their abundant nutrient contents. A diet plan rich in fruit and vegetables is typically low in calories, packed with antioxidants and can decrease hypothyroid symptoms by promoting satiety and alleviating bowel irregularity. Fruits and vegetables that can assist with low thyroid include plums, carrots, squash, cherries, strawberries, bell peppers, and potatoes. However, you should avoid broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, and soybeans as they may interfere with thyroid function, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Selenium and Vitamin C
The mineral selenium along with vitamin C may be key factors in boosting thyroid capability, according to a study published in "BMC Endocrine Disorders" in January 2008. Experts found that patients battling with thyroid disease had lower levels of selenium and vitamin C. You should incorporate selenium-rich foods, such as Brazil nuts and tuna, and vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, peppers and cruciferous vegetables, into a low thyroid diet.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Hypothyroidism; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 31, 2010
- "BMC Endocrine Disorders"; The role of selenium, vitamin C, and zinc in benign thyroid diseases and of selenium in malignant thyroid diseases: Low selenium levels are found in subacute and silent thyroiditis and in papillary and follicular carcinoma; Roy Moncayo, et al.; Jan. 2008
