11 Foods To Eat If You Have Hypothyroidism

May 28, 2018

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of certain hormones, so the patient’s metabolism becomes abnormally slow. Untreated hypothyroidism can eventually cause other health problems like obesity, heart disease, and joint pain. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, dry skin, a hoarse voice, and a puffy face. An autoimmune disease called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, but it can have other causes including certain medications and iodine deficiency.

Diet can help patients with hypothyroidism, particularly if their condition is caused by an iodine deficiency. Here are eleven food you should eat if you have hypothyroidism:
 

Hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, and macadamia nuts are loaded with selenium, which is needed to convert the thyroid hormone T4 to T3. Be careful, though, for nuts are also high in fat.

Some fruits, like cranberries, dates, and prunes, are excellent sources of iodine, which is needed to produce the thyroid hormones T4 and T3. Cranberries are a particularly good source, for a half cup contains 400 mcg of iodine. You can buy cranberries fresh or frozen and use them to make smoothies.

Herbs like turmeric, ginger, cilantro, and cinnamon can speed the sluggish metabolism of someone with hypothyroidism. Other herbs can help relieve some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism; for example, both marshmallow and rosehips can soothe dry skin and mucous membranes.

Fish and meat are both excellent sources of the proteins needed to make hormones. Wild-caught fish and organic meat like free-range turkey or chicken are especially recommended. On the other hand, you should avoid fish that are high in mercury and smoked or processed meat.

Probiotics help keep good gut bacteria at a healthy level, and those bacteria, in turn, protect the gut from parasites and other invaders, toxins, and undigested food. If the ratio between good and bad gut bacteria gets out of kilter, it can affect the immune system and the thyroid’s activity. Kefir, kombucha tea, and sauerkraut are all good sources of probiotics.

Seaweed is an excellent source of iodine, and iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism. While table salt is another good source of iodine, it’s still a good idea to have your doctor evaluate your diet after a diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

Complex carbohydrates, like those in brown rice or whole grain bread, can aid overall health as well as thyroid problems. They aid digestion and keep hormone levels in better balance.

Some vegetables, like peas or squash, contain a lot of zinc and iodine. Both improve the thyroid’s functioning. On the other hand, green leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and kale can interfere with thyroid function. You should eat them in only moderate amounts. It’s also a good idea to cook them first.

Healthy fats can protect and improve the thyroid gland function. Sunflower seeds and olive oil are good sources of such fats.

A deficiency in Vitamin D can make hypothyroidism more severe. You can increase your Vitamin D intake by taking supplements or eating natural sources such as fatty fish like salmon or dairy products.

Researchers have found that selenium improves the thyroid gland’s health. Brazil nuts and some fish like halibut, tuna, and yellowfin are good sources of selenium.

Do you have hypothyroidism or know someone who does? Do you agree with this list? Tell your friends about this article and post your thoughts in the comment section!

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!