A diet for low thyroid function may decrease symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as weight gain, fatigue, high cholesterol levels and constipation. However, scientific evidence has not proven the effectiveness of treating low thyroid function with diet. Consult your doctor before making dietary changes part of your hypothyroid treatment. Failure to treat hypothyroidism may lead to heart problems, mental problems, poor temperature regulation and difficulty breathing.
Calorie Intake
If you notice your weight increasing, decrease the number of calories you consume each day. To maintain your current weight, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that moderately active men consume 15 calories per pound of body weight, moderately active women consume 12 calories per pound of body weight, while inactive men consume 13 calories per pound of body weight and inactive women consume 10 calories per pound of body weight. Decreased metabolism resulting from decreased thyroid function may require you to increase your activity level, in addition to controlling your calorie intake. A food diary can help you track your calorie intake, especially when you list all foods and drinks you consume.
Whole Grains
A diet for low thyroid function emphasizes the consumption of whole grains. Look for the words "100 percent whole grain" or "100 percent whole wheat" on the food label to ensure foods contain whole grains. "Whole grain foods keep the components of the grain seed intact, giving you the most vitamins, minerals and fiber," explains Barbara Mendez, a nutritional consultant and registered dietitian in New York City. Regular consumption of whole grains helps lower cholesterol levels, relieve constipation and decrease your calorie intake by keeping you feeling full.
Lean Proteins
Lean protein food choices help keep your saturated fat intake down, which can help combat high cholesterol and weight gain. Lean proteins include fish, skinless poultry, nuts and seeds. Avoid processed meats and fried foods, because processing and frying increase the fat content of the food, advises Mendez.
Produce
The nutrient content of fruits and vegetables boost your immune system, decrease constipation and give you energy. These low-calorie foods also help fill you up and keep your overall calorie intake low to fight weight gain. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends limiting your intake of Brussels sprouts, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, cabbage, soybeans and spinach because they may further decrease your thyroid function.
Dieting Tips
You can't always follow a diet for low thyroid function perfectly. Increase your likelihood of making healthy choices by keeping various fruits, whole grains and vegetables handy for snacks and limiting your ability to quickly reach for sugary sweets or snack foods that can worsen your hypothyroid symptoms. Experimenting with a variety of healthy recipes increases the variety of food you enjoy and increases your compliance to a healthy diet.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Hypothyroidism: Symptoms; June 2010
- Cleaveland Clinic; Hypothyroidism; November 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: How Many Calories and Fat Grams Do You Need?
- Barbara M. Mendez RPh, MS; Private Practice; New York, New York
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Hypothyroidism; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2010
