Thyroid Diet – The foods we eat are one of the best strategies to ensure that the thyroid gland is working at its best. Numerous nutrients found in our daily diet can help our thyroid gland to maintain its balance.
Diet for the thyroid: The thyroid gland is a small, butter-shaped gland found at the base of the neck. The thyroid plays a crucial role in regulating the rate of activity of your metabolism. If left undiagnosed, thyroid abnormalities can increase the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and other health difficulties. Did you know that rapid and accelerated weight gain is the first sign of a thyroid? Nutritionist Lovneet Batra says: “A balanced diet is important to maintain healthy thyroid gland functions. While iodine is at the top of the list, it is not the only micronutrient that affects the thyroid gland, these are some of the most important nutrients for thyroid health.” The expert further shares the essential key nutrients that thyroid patients should include in their diet.
6 ESSENTIAL KEY NUTRIENTS FOR THYROID PATIENTS:
- Iodine: Iodine is essential for thyroid function. Currently, the only known role of iodine is to support the production of thyroid hormone. Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are iodine-containing thyroid hormones, and iodine deficiency causes thyroid disease.
- Vitamin D: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease are associated with lower levels of vitamin D.
- Selenium: Selenium, a mineral necessary for thyroid hormone production, helps protect the thyroid from possible damage caused by oxidative stress.
- Zinc: The mineral zinc is necessary for the production of thyroid hormone. It is also responsible for maintaining adequate serum levels of T3, T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
- Iron: The thyroid needs iron to convert T4 to T3, the active form of thyroid hormone, and iron deficiency is associated with thyroid dysfunction.
- Other nutrients, such as B vitamins, copper, and vitamins A and E, are also necessary for optimal thyroid function. Being deficient in one or more nutrients can negatively affect thyroid health and increase your risk of thyroid disease.
Maintain a balanced diet and always talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes.
