Last Updated on July 10, 2024
In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. This in turn affects the metabolism leading to symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and constipation. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet that includes a good mix of nutrients.
It is essential to dive into intricacies of the best diet for hypothyroidism and the foods to avoid with hypothyroidism.
Unlocking the Impact: Best Diet for Hypothyroidism
Having hypothyroidism can negate the physical and mental development of the person. So, we need to focus on the key nutrients to manage the condition. The following are some of the nutrients that need to be incorporated in the best diet for hypothyroidism.
- The major key nutrients that one should incorporate into diet are iodine, zinc, and selenium as they will support thyroid function.
- With that, the person needs to incorporate omega-3 fatty acids rich food into their diet which includes flaxseeds and fish.
- Moreover, one needs to increase the intake of dietary fibers which will help to lose weight, stay fuller, and improve overall bowel movement.
- Apart from that one needs to keep an eye on the foods that may interfere with the absorption of thyroid replacement medications.
Read below to see the detailed review of the best diet for hypothyroidism:
- Iodine-rich Food: Iodine is required by the body to produce thyroid hormones. But our body cannot make iodine on its own, so we need to get it from our diets. Iodine is commonly present in iodized table salt, seaweed, organic eggs, cheese, and milk. Iodine deficiency can lead to enlargement of thyroid gland leading to a condition called goiter. However, it is required to keep in mind the counter effect of excessive iodine consumption on the health of a person. Hence, it is recommended to increase iodine intake based on the physician’s recommendation.
- Selenium-rich Food: Selenium is an important micronutrient which aids in the production of thyroid hormones and has antioxidant properties. It is required to maintain selenium levels in the body to foster overall health. Foods rich in selenium include turkey, shrimp, beef, tuna, oatmeal (gluten free), ham, chicken, brown rice, etc.
- Zinc-rich Food: Zinc is another important mineral which can help in managing hypothyroidism. Zinc supplementation is proved to improve the thyroid function in females with low levels of thyroid hormones. Food containing zinc includes fortified cereals, oysters, legumes, pumpkin seeds, and yogurt. This can help you improve organ health, joint health, and provide relief from stress.
Also read: Postpartum Thyroiditis
The Foods to Avoid with Hypothyroidism and Why
There are some nutrients known to intervene with the thyroid function. Foods to avoid with hypothyroidism to manage the symptoms of hypothyroidism one must restrict the intake of foods and nutrients mentioned below.
- Soy: According to some stats it is evident that soy may affect the production of thyroid hormones in the body. However, other studies show that soy does not have any significant effect on thyroid function. So, more research is required in this area. Food rich in soy includes soy sauce, tofu, miso, etc.
- Goitrogens: Substantial amounts of consumption of Goitrogens is known to impede the thyroid function. Regular amount of foods containing goitrogens like broccoli do not affect the thyroid function. Foods rich in goitrogens are green vegetables belonging to the Brassicaceae family including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, Russian kale etc.
- Pre-packaged Foods: Consumption of foods that undergo significant industrial processing contain preservatives, additives, artificial flavor negatively impacts hypothyroidism as they are calorie-dense and can lead to weight gain. They are also known to cause dysglycemia which in turn affects your mood and makes a person feel lethargic.
These are some examples of foods to avoid with hypothyroidism for healthy thyroid and improved health quality.
Boost Thyroid Health: Best Diet for Hypothyroidism
- If you have deteriorating thyroid health, it is imperative that you visit a doctor and get a prescription for medications. The doctor might recommend that you take the thyroid medications in a fasting state as it helps in increased absorption.
- It is recommended to take the medication 30-60 minutes before breakfast or 3-4 hours post-dinner.
- Avoid eating the medication within 4 hours after the consumption of food rich in calcium and iron as they intercede with its absorption.
- Other than that, one needs to keep in mind about the foods to avoid with hypothyroidism as they interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication. This includes iodine-rich food, fiber containing foods like fiber drinks, soy-based foods, and iron supplements.
Final Thoughts: Navigating Best Diet for Hypothyroidism with Confidence
In conclusion, managing hypothyroidism effectively requires a comprehensive approach that includes careful dietary choices. By incorporating the best diet for hypothyroidism which include essential nutrients like iodine, selenium, and zinc, and embracing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fibers, individuals can support their thyroid function and improve overall well-being. However, it is equally important to be mindful of foods to avoid with hypothyroidism that may hinder thyroid hormone production or interfere with thyroid medication absorption. Adhering to the best diet for hypothyroidism, consulting healthcare professionals for tailored advice, and staying informed about which foods to embrace and avoid can make a significant difference in managing the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Remember, your diet can be a powerful ally in your journey towards better thyroid health and improved quality of life.
