Not too long ago, natural health guru JJ Smith introduced a pumpkin spice smoothie at The Dr Oz Show. Dr. Oz took a sip and raved, “It’s like you’re eating pumpkin pie!” In addition to being delicious, the TV host also noted that the fall-flavored drink had several ingredients that “increase the speed of the thyroid and fight weight gain.”
“Even if you’re not a fan of pumpkin spice,” Smith added, “there are seasonal ingredients you’ll love that can do great things for your thyroid and waistline.”
The thyroid is a small gland hidden under the Adam’s apple that has a great effect on the overall health of the body. A functioning thyroid regulates crucial functions like breathing and fat burning. “Eating for a healthy thyroid is just smart for everyone,” says Smith. “And the shakes make it easy. You load your blender with the best ingredients and you have a meal ready in seconds.”
What ingredients should you put in your smoothies for thyroid health?
Smith’s 10-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse is designed for efficient and healthy fat loss. The plan requires swap a meal for a vitamin-rich smoothie every day. The following smoothie ingredients are some of the most important.
pumpkin rich in pectin
Like many fruits, pumpkin is rich in vitamin c, a thyroid enhancer that facilitates efficient fat burning. Another clue: “Pumpkins are packed with fiber,” says Dr. Oz, including pectin, a gel-like soluble fiber that “grabs” and expels up to 75 percent of thyroid-slowing toxins.
Bonus: Pectin relieves hunger better than many diet pills and releases compounds that, according to several studies, melt belly fat quickly. Other main sources of pectin: apples, pears and bananas.
healing protein
New research shows eat lots of protein-rich foods is strongly linked to healthier thyroid. It turns out that the amino acids in protein heal and strengthen delicate thyroid tissue. Smith is a fan of plant-based protein powder, which “mixes well with any shake.”
Supernutrient Crunch
According to Dr. Oz, our thyroids need amino acids like tyrosine and the mineral selenium to thrive, and most of us don’t get enough of it. Add daily doses to your menus and you could see a substantial boost in your energy levels. Smith’s Shake Solution: Simply add tyrosine-rich almond milk and selenium-rich pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, and Brazil nuts.
Spices with Kick
When a leading thyroid expert surveyed thousands of patients, most reported that additional spices significantly reduced sluggish thyroid symptoms. Why? Studies confirm spices reduce inflammation that blocks the thyroid caused by sugar, toxins and other irritants. “Cinnamon and ginger, for example, are powerful natural anti-inflammatories,” reveals Smith.
Sweet and cheerful greens
Research shows that there is a direct connection between get enough zinc and have a thyroid full of life. That’s why Smith recommends adding leafy green vegetables to most smoothies. Her favourite? “Young spinach has a nice flavor, not bitter at all,” he shares. Avocado, berries, and mango also provide a nice zinc hit.
What types of smoothies can you make for thyroid health?
Do you want to start? These thyroid-boosting smoothies can jumpstart your journey. Always get your doctor’s approval to try a new diet, and never stop a prescription unless your doctor advises you to do so.
RED POWER OF AUTUMN: Blitz 1⁄2 cup pomegranate juice, 1 cup frozen berries, 1 cup frozen cauliflower, 1 banana, 1 cup nut milk, 1 cup kale, and 1 tablespoon flax.
GREEN APPLE CRISP: Blitz 1 diced apple, 1 banana, 2 cups spinach, 1⁄4 cup walnuts, 1 cup oatmeal or nut milk, 1⁄4 cup oatmeal, ice, and a dash of vanilla and cinnamon.
PEAR BLACKBERRY: Blitz 1 cup frozen blackberries, 1 pear, 2 cups vegetables, 1 tablespoon flax, 1 and 1⁄2 cups nut milk, dash of vanilla and ginger.
This article originally appeared in our print magazine, women’s world.
