People who suffer from hypothyroidism should eat healthy foods which are rich in nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Some useful foods for hypothyroidism include:
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Selenium
Selenium is an antioxidant trace mineral which is needed in the conversion of the thyroid hormones in the body. Some foods rich in selenium include Brazil nuts, tomatoes, onions, and whole wheat breads.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that is known to improve the thyroid function. Foods with zinc include fish, wheat bran and oyster.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants inhibit oxidation inside the body and help cells achieve their optimum potential. They are also great in keeping one healthy and boosting the immune system. Thus, there is a need for hypothyroidism patients to eat foods that are rich in antioxidants such as tomatoes, cherries, blueberries, bell pepper and squash.
Tyrosine
Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid. While produced by the body, patients with hypothyroidism should take in more tyrosine as it helps in pain management, muscle and skin tone and promotes protein structure in the body. Foods rich in tyrosine include lean cuts of meat, cheese, cow’s milk, avocados and bananas and some beans.
Foods Rich in Omega-3
Essential fatty acids like omega-3 are important for thyroid function. Good food sources of omega-3 include grounded flaxseed or flaxseed oil, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and wild-caught fatty fish like salmon, trout, or tuna.
Iodine-rich foods
Some forms of hypothyroidism are caused by a lack of sufficient iodine. In such cases, using iodized salt or iodine-enriched foods can be beneficial. But eating too much iodine can have the opposite effect and suppress thyroid gland activity. Check with your doctor before taking supplements.
Foods to avoid in Hypothyroidism
Many common foods and supplements contain compounds that interfere with thyroid function. In general, it’s best to avoid the following:
Soy
Studies suggest that phytoestrogens in soybeans and soy-rich foods may inhibit the activity of an enzyme that makes thyroid hormones. One study found that women who consumed soy supplements were three times more likely to develop hypothyroidism.
High-fiber foods
Although a high-fiber diet is usually recommended, too much fiber eaten right after taking thyroid medicines may interfere with their absorption. Wait two hours before you eat a high-fiber meal (one with more than about 15 grams of fiber).
Certain vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables that are rich in fiber, like broccoli, cabbage, spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts, may inhibit thyroid medication absorption. Reducing the amounts of such produce in the morning right after taking your medication may help.
Gluten
Gluten is a protein found in foods processed from wheat, barley, rye, and other grains. Gluten can irritate the small intestine and may hamper absorption of thyroid hormone replacement medication.
Other foods you should avoid on a hypothyroid diet include fatty foods, processed foods, sugery products, alcohol, and caffeine. Caffeine is known to block the absorption of thyroid hormone replacements.
References:
http://www.healthline.com/health/hypothyroidism/diet-plan
http://www.progressivehealth.com/hypothyroidism-foods.htm
http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/food-and-nutrition-articles/hypothyroidism-diet/
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