Raw Diet For Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a caused by dysfunction of the thyroid gland. The thyroid produces hormones, particularly thyroxine and triiodothyronine, that help regulate processes such as metabolism, growth and use of carbohydrates and proteins. In hypothyroidism, the insufficient production of thyroxine slows your metabolism, which can lead to weight gain. Although a raw food diet cannot cure hypothyroidism, it may help reduce your risk of developing this condition or improve thyroid function. Check with your doctor before adopting a raw diet.

Iodine-rich Foods

Raw foods that contain iodine may help support thyroid function and stimulate the production of thyroid hormones necessary for metabolism, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Iodine may help prevent hypothyroidism or reduce its effects. Sea vegetables, particularly kelp, are rich sources of iodine. Raw saltwater fish, such as tuna and mackerel, also contain this mineral. Contact your doctor before increasing your iodine intake, as unregulated iodine consumption may impair thyroid function instead of reducing hypothyroidism risk.

Tyrosine-rich Foods

Tyrosine is an amino acid that helps your thyroid gland produce thyroxine; low levels of tyrosine in the body may contribute to hypothyroidism, according to Balch. Raw foods such as almonds, bananas, avocados, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds are abundant sources of tyrosine. However, talk to your physician if you take monoamine oxidase inhibitors for depression, as increasing your consumption of foods containing tyrosine may interact with these drugs and elevate blood pressure.

Antioxidant-rich Foods

Antioxidants are substances that may help reduce the risk of free radical damage to the cells of your body, including those that make up your thyroid gland. Prevention of thyroid damage caused by free radicals may help reduce the risk of impaired thyroid function. Beta-carotene and vitamin C -- found in raw foods such as citrus fruits, carrots, spinach, broccoli, kale, pomegranates, papayas, apples and winter squash -- are potent antioxidants, according to Balch. These foods may also boost immune system function to help prevent thyroid damage caused by bacterial and viral infection.

Foods to Avoid

If you take synthetic thyroid hormones to treat hypothyroidism, you should avoid certain foods that can interfere with the absorption of these hormones. Cottonseed meal, soy flour and walnuts can all reduce the effectiveness of synthetic thyroid hormones, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Heavy intake of dietary fiber found in raw artichokes, nuts and seeds may also interfere with thyroid hormone absorption.