Thyroid Diet: Symptoms, Diet Plan For Hypothyroidism

The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the human body. This is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits below Adam’s apple, along the front of the windpipe of the neck. The thyroid gland has two side lobes and is connected by a bridge in the middle. Several hormones collectively called the thyroid hormones are secreted by the gland which facilitates metabolism, growth, and development, and maintains the body temperature that is adequate during infancy and early childhood. Goiter, thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Graves disease, thyroid cancer, etc are some typical medical conditions that affect the thyroid gland. Hence, adequate dietary requirements are essential for appropriate thyroid function. Consuming a well-balanced diet and avoiding dietary extremes can ensure good thyroid health. This article discusses hypothyroidism and the dietary requirements and supplements that improve and maintain thyroid gland function.

Key Takeaways: Thyroid, Thyroid Gland, Thyroid Hormones, Hyperthyroidism

Hypothyroidism- Symptoms and Effects

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The thyroid gland plays a vital role in the production and storage of thyroid hormones which influence every cell in the human body ranging from the heart, brain, muscles, and even skin. Basic cell functions such as growth control, cell repair, and metabolism are hence controlled by the thyroid gland. However, when the thyroid gland does not make enough of these hormones, it causes a condition called Hypothyroidism. About 1-2 percent of the world population is estimated to suffer from this disorder and research shows that hypothyroidism is 10 times more likely in women than in comparison to men.

How is Hypothyroidism Caused?

The thyroid gland signals the Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) to release thyroid hormones onto the bloodstream. The pituitary gland located at the base of the brain is responsible for signaling lower levels of the thyroid hormones. At times, the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones even if there is plenty of TSH. This condition is called Hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms

At times iodine deficiency in diets, genetic disorders, certain prescribed pressure medications, and surgeries performed for partial thyroid removal contribute to hypothyroidism. Some of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism are constipation, depression, changes in menstrual cycles, dry hair and skin, excessive hair loss, elevated cholesterol levels, pains in joints associated with swelling, etc.

Effects

Drastic changes are observed as part of hypothyroidism as the metabolic function is greatly altered. The body temperature is affected and this reduces the rate of calorie burning. This makes individuals suffering from hyperthyroidism develop fatigue, the feeling of cold, elevated cholesterol levels, and difficulty in losing body weight.

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Necessary Nutrients

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Certain nutrients play an important role in preventing hypothyroidism. The deficiency of these in the diet could hamper the release of the thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.

Iodine

Iodine is essential to make thyroid hormones, a deficiency of which causes a high risk of hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency is seen in almost one-third of the world population. However, most of the iodine needed for the body can be obtained from natural foods such as cheese, milk, using iodized table salt while cooking, saltwater fish, eggs, etc. Supplements need to be taken only on prescription from a medical practitioner as greater doses than required can also lead to damage to the thyroid gland.

Selenium

Selenium is known to activate the thyroid gland to release the thyroid hormones that regulate the metabolism and other cell activities in the body. Selenium has antioxidant benefits and thus protects the thyroid gland from damage by molecules such as free radicals. Selenium is found very commonly in seafood like shrimps, saltwater fishes like tuna, sardines, oatmeals, brown rice. Brazil nuts, eggs, legumes, etc. Supplements without a prescription from an experienced medical practitioner should be avoided as they can be highly toxic.

Zinc

Just like selenium, zinc is also known for activating thyroid hormones. Deficiencies of zinc are very rare because a variety of daily used foods are rich sources of zinc. Some examples are crab, chicken, pork, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, legumes, shellfish, beef, etc.

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Harmful Nutrients

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Some of the foods we take contain components that hinder thyroid function. Some of these are as follows:

1. Goitrogens- Foods such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, etc are rich in goitrogens.
2. Soy- These may interfere with how the body produces thyroid. Foods such as soya sauce, soy milk, tofu, etc.
3. Gluten- Switching to a gluten-free diet helps reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism that may be auto-immune.
4. Processed food- Donuts, cakes, hot dogs, fast foods, soda, etc. have high amounts of added sugars. These also affect the function of the thyroid gland.

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Hyperthyroidism Diet

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The thyroid gland performs prominent functions at the cellular level hence needs a well-balanced diet for its proper functioning. Let us look at some foods which can help boost and regulate the thyroid gland from producing the thyroid hormones.

1. Fishes

Fishes contain omega-3 fatty acids and EDA-PHA which are important for thyroid function and hormone balance. Omega -3 fatty acids levels when maintained in our diets healthifies the neurological functions and reduces inflammations. Some must include fishes are mackerel, salmon, sardine which also improve immunity.

1. High-Fibre Foods

These are highly recommended in our diets, however, in the right amounts. Excessive intake of fiber-rich foods especially when thyroid medication is going on can hamper absorption.

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains medium-chained fatty acids in the form of caprylic acid. It supports metabolism and increases fight fatigue and energy. Coconut oil is easily digestible and also nourishes the digestive system. Apart from these, coconut oil is known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties that suppress inflammation. Including foods cooked in coconut oil improves immunity and increases blood function. Sugar levels are also known to be stabilized with the use of coconut oil.

1. Protein-Rich Foods

Protein-rich foods contain kefir (a dairy product that gets fermented). This is present in goat’s milk and some veggies. These are probiotics and generate a healthy environment by maintaining a balanced flora of bacteria. Diseases like leaky gut syndrome can be greatly reduced by including proteins in the diet.

1. Seaweeds

Seaweeds are the best natural source of iodine. They prevent deficiencies that disturb thyroid function. Some good sources are tuna fish, kelp, etc.

1. Clean Water

Clean water is highly essential for our survival. Hydration and digestion are improved. It also helps in preventing moodiness and fatigue. It is recommended to drink approximately 8 ounces of water every two hours every day to prevent constipation.

1. Iron and Calcium Supplements

Iron and calcium supplements offer medicinal effects that improve thyroid gland functioning.

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Things to Remember

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• The thyroid gland located below in front of the neck secretes thyroid hormones that affect metabolism, growth, and development.
• Goitre, thyroiditis, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, etc . are some diseases associated with the thyroid gland.
• The thyroid gland makes and stores thyroid hormones which are released into the bloodstream.
• Lower levels of thyroid hormones cause the condition called hypothyroidism.
• Metabolism, body temperature, fatigue, lower rate of calories burnt are some effects of hypothyroidism.
• A few symptoms include depression, altered menstrual cycles, fatigue, increased cholesterol levels, joint pains, etc.
• Iodine, selenium, zinc, iron, and calcium are some of the needed nutrients for maintaining thyroid function.
• Diets rich in fishes, seaweeds, protein-rich foods, foods cooked in coconut oil, and clean water help regulate thyroid gland function.

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