Underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid glands do not produce certain important hormones. Hypothyroidism occurs mostly in women who are older than 60 years as it upsets the normal balance of chemical reactions in the body. Though the symptoms occur in the early stages, untreated hypothyroidism leads to severe health complications such as heart disease, obesity, infertility and joint pains.
Symptoms
- Weight gain
- Puffy Face
- Fatigue
- Dry Skin
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness, stiffness and tenderness
- High blood cholesterol level
- Slow heart rate
- Thinning hair
- Depression
- Swelling in joints
Nutrients to improve thyroid function
Certain foods are so good for people with thyroid disorders as they contain essential nutrients that are required for healthy thyroid functioning in the body. The key nutrients good for balanced thyroid are:
- Vitamin A, C, D, B12, B2
- Proteins
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Selenium
- Iodine
7 best foods to eat if you have Hypothyroidism
Yogurt –
Dairy products are full of good nutrients and you need not worry about the iodine supplements, as the livestock’s are fed just that and the process of milking involves iodine-based cleaners, as well. Plain yogurt, low-fat or Greek is a good source and adds up to 50% of your daily iodine intake.
Eggs –
One of the super foods for thyroid. One large egg a day gives you about 16% of iodine and 20% of selenium you require every day. Most of the iodine is present in the yolk, so consume a whole egg every single day to nourish the thyroid naturally.
Chicken & Beef-
Another key ingredient to balance thyroid is zinc. A portion of 3 ounce serving beef or dark chicken meat consists of 7 milligrams and 2.4 milligrams of zinc, respectively. And about the same, 3 ounce beef patty consists of 3 milligrams zinc. On the other hand, if you have a GI disorder or a poor diet, it might interfere with your systems ability to absorb zinc and that might put you at a risk for a deficiency.
Fish –
A good source of iodine found in seawater and soils. A portion of 3 ounce of baked cod consists of about 99 micrograms of iodine or at least 66% of the daily intake, recommended by the nutritionists. A canned tuna serves you about 17 micrograms or 11% of the daily intake and a yellow fin tuna of the same 3 ounce category serves you about 92% micrograms of selenium.
Cauliflower, Kale, Broccoli, Bok Choy
Though these foods are known for causing goitre, these are equally important for a healthy thyroid as they release enzymes related to glucosinolates. These foods are known to protect you against thyroid cancer provided you eat in moderation.
Berries-
More than just selenium, vitamin D and iodine, foods that are rich in antioxidants are equally important and best for thyroid. The highest amounts of antioxidants are present in blackberries, strawberries, cranberries and goji berries that are best to balance your thyroid.
Brazil Nuts-
Selenium present in nuts are packed with nutrients known to regulate thyroid hormones. One kernel of a Brazilian nut contains about 96 micrograms which is about double the intake of 55 micrograms. Snacking on these nuts also wards off long-term thyroid damage in people; though make sure the quantity you consume is moderate and not overboard.
Hypothyroidism does pose a serious threat to health and adds to many other complications but with the right diet, regular diagnostic tests and weight loss management program, one can lead a healthy, balanced life.
