Thyroid Health And Your Diet

The thyroid gland plays a vital role in our bodies. While no particular food or supplement can correct a thyroid disorder (or any other condition), there are some things that can optimize function. Dietitian Aislinn explains all.

What is the Thyroid Gland and What are its Functions?

The thyroid gland is located in the neck. It regulates metabolism, calcium and blood levels, body temperature, brain growth, and the heart and nervous systems (1).

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism (or underactive thyroid) is a condition in which the thyroid does not produce and release enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain, fatigue, and hair loss. It can also lead to low mood, low mood, menstrual disorders, low libido, and low mood (1).

What is Hyperthyroidism?

When the thyroid produces too many thyroid hormones, hyperthyroidism (or overactive thyroid) occurs. This can cause unintentional weight loss, irregular heartbeats, and an increase in your body's metabolism (1).

What are the Key Nutrients to Optimize Thyroid Function?

A healthy balanced diet is essential. It should be low in processed foods and high in fruits and vegetables.

Iodine

Thyroid hormones, which are made up of iodine, require iodine to function properly. If you are thinking of taking an iodine-rich supplement along with levothyroxine, be careful. Hypothyroidism can be caused by an iodine deficit. However, iodine supplements may make your symptoms worse (2, 3, 4). Before you start taking iodine supplements, make sure to consult your doctor. You can get iodine from fish, eggs, poultry, meat, eggs, bread, fruits, and vegetables, as well as seaweed (4, 5, 6).

Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is high among hypothyroidism patients, and bone loss is common for those with hyperthyroidism. Vitamin D is vital for calcium absorption, and thus bone health. It is difficult to obtain enough vitamin D from Irish food. Therefore, the sun's UVB radiations are what we rely on to make vitamin D during the summer. Everyone in Ireland should take a vitamin D supplement between September and April. Vitamin D can be found in oily fish, eggs, and UV-treated mushrooms.

Selenium

Selenium is necessary for normal thyroid function. Selenium supplements are not necessary and could be dangerous to your health. Sources of selenium include Brazil nuts and cashew nuts as well as lentils, mackerel (1-3), white pasta, brown bread, and lobster (1, 3).

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 deficiency could be more common in people with hyperthyroidism or autoimmune hypo. Vitamin B12 is vital for normal red blood cell production, nerve function, and metabolism. Vitamin B12 can be found in meat, dairy, fish, and offal. It can also be found in fortified foods, nutritional yeast, and other sources (1, 3).

Zinc

Zinc plays a role in thyroid hormone function and creation. Zinc can be found in oysters, crustaceans, and meat and poultry as well as dairy products, cashew nuts, seeds, and milk (3).

Iron

Hypothyroidism sufferers are more likely to have iron deficiencies. Red meat, eggs, red meat, poultry, eggs, legumes, pulses, and tofu are all good sources of iron. Iron absorption requires vitamin C. Therefore, iron-rich foods that are rich in vitamin C (e.g. Iron absorption can be improved by citrus fruits and peppers. Iron absorption can be decreased by tannins in tea, coffee, and red wine (3).

Goitrogens

Natural compounds in certain foods can cause thyroid hormone dysfunction. Goitrogens can be found in vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potato, sweet potato, and millet. However, heating or cooking these veggies can reduce their effect. It is generally not an issue for Irish residents as the number of goitrogens in their diet would have to be high enough to pose a health risk. Consuming high levels of calcium-rich foods or supplements can decrease Levothyroxine absorption. Avoid eating soy and other foods that are high in calcium. You don't need to limit the intake of soya and calcium in your diet (1-3).

Exercise

Each week, 150 minutes of exercise are recommended. Regular exercise can reduce weight gain, fatigue, and mood.