The thyroid is an endocrine gland located at the root of your neck that produces and secretes several hormones. The major role your thyroid plays is the release of hormones that control the growth, development, and your body’s rate of metabolism. The chief nutrient that is responsible for a healthy thyroid function is Iodine which should be consumed through diet in sufficient amounts. It also has important roles in regulating digestive and muscle functions, heart rate, bone health, brain development, temperature, and breathing. Two prime hormones produced by the thyroid gland are T3 and T4 also known as triiodothyronine and thyronine respectively. When the thyroid gland does not function properly, two conditions can take place:
- Hyperthyroidism: excessive secretion of thyroid hormone which results in tremors, palpitations, swelling in the neck, excessive sweating, nervousness, and anxiety.
- Hypothyroidism: it occurs when the secretions of thyroid gland are not enough to meet the body’s demands. The symptoms of hypothyroidism include puffiness of the face, dry skin, tiredness, fatigue, weight gain, and coarse skin and hair.
Thus, it is necessary to maintain thyroid health in order to keep the body working properly. The best way to do so is by adding thyroid-friendly foods to your diet and maintaining a balanced diet. The following are the most effective foods to eat when you are concerned about your health:
Yogurt
Curd falls in the category of one of the most effective foods for thyroid. Dairy products are quite nutritious and they play major roles in fulfilling the iodine demands of our body. Iodine is important for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and its levels are maintained in the body by consuming it from dietary sources. Add yogurt in your rice, curry or eat it with your chapati and make it a routine, you will surely see the results.
Whole Grains:
Whole grains help with bowel movements and regulate digestion. Hence, constipation caused by Rice, pasta, oatmeal, and bread is those whole-grain foods that are highly nutritious and filled with fiber.
Milk
Milk is included among the first-class sources of iodine, however, the Milk substitutes obtained from plant-derived beverages including almond beverages and soy, relatively comprise lower quantities of iodine. Demineralization of bones and hypothyroidism can cause osteoporosis for which milk and milk products are the best options that can be included in your diet.
Nuts and Seeds:
Nuts are a good source of selenium and various studies have revealed that Brazil nuts are excellent for fighting hypothyroidism-induced inflammation and regulating the normal functioning of thyroid gland. Hazelnuts, peanuts, Brazil nuts, walnuts, and macadamia are commonly eaten nuts. Beans are easily available and economical while a huge source of constant energy. They are highly recommended for those who feel tired or weak by hypothyroidism. Beans are high in minerals, vitamins, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Being rich in fats, they can help in treating symptoms of constipation caused by hypothyroidism.
Avocado:
Avocados are rich in fiber, healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, and many more nutrients that can help in lowering inflammation in the body. They also contain vitamin B, C, E and K, potassium and Magnesium. The healthy fats present in avocados maintain the levels of thyroid hormones in the body.
Almonds:
Almonds contain abundant quantities of iron, that is necessary for dealing with anemia in hypothyroidism patients. They are also a good source of Selenium that is very effective in controlling thyroid problems. It is known to lower thyroid peroxidase antibodies and very helpful in controlling the signs and symptoms of
Dietary Fiber:
Patients with hypothyroidism are recommended to take a high-fiber diet because it is very beneficial for keeping heart and stomach healthy. Beans, pulses, fresh vegetables and berries contain high fiber content. Dietary fiber is very good for stomach health and it keeps its normal functioning. Thus, add fiber in your diet to keep your thyroid healthy and disease-free. Green leafy vegetables are also much recommended during thyroid diseases such as hypothyroidism because they help maintain in weight loss which is a consequence of thyroid dysfunction.
Fruits:
Hypothyroidism is linked with weight gain due to which fruits are a healthy option of weight loss. It is healthier for your body to take sugar through fruits rather than consuming it from the processed sources, it will really work if you try. Besides, fruits are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants which help in maintaining a healthy heart function in your body.
Oily Fish:
Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids that are immensely beneficial for dealing with thyroid health problems. Oily fish is considered one of the best sources of healthy fats which are omega-3 fatty acids. Trout, sardines, tuna, salmon, mackerel, and other seafood can be good options for your meal. The omega 3s are associated with controlling the levels of cholesterol in the body and maintaining heart health. Fish is also high in selenium which is known to have anti-inflammatory effects on damages caused by hypothyroidism.
Thyroid health problems have become common nowadays and this is probably due to iodine deficiency or excess in some cases. Iodine is an important nutrient that our body needs for the proper functioning of thyroid gland. Thyroid issues arise due to improper functioning of the thyroid gland, resulting in various disorders such as goiter, graves disease, Hashimoto’s disease, and thyroiditis. To avoid the occurrence of these diseases, you have to maintain your diet and eat those foods that prove beneficial for your thyroid health.
