Often misunderstood and underappreciated, your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that is part of the endocrine system. The endocrine system consists of a series of glands that produce hormones that coordinate many of your body’s activities, such as metabolism, tissue function, sleep, energy levels, growth and development, and more. However, when your thyroid stops functioning correctly, it can either produce too many hormones (hyperthyroidism), or not enough hormones (hypothyroidism). In either regard, treatment is necessary, but your daily diet can go a long way in keeping your body and thyroid in balance. Knowing which foods are good for your thyroid can help you alter your daily diet so you can reduce your symptoms and protect your thyroid.
Eating foods that can help thyroid function is crucial if you want to keep your body balanced. No matter which way the pendulum swings, adding foods that are good for your thyroid into your diet can help keep your thyroid working correctly and help you feel your best.
Foods That Are Good for Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when a person has an under-active thyroid gland. Some of the common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, constipation, weight gain, puffy face, muscle weakness, increased sensitivity to cold, and dry skin.
• Eggs
• Fish (salmon, sea bass, cod)
• Salted nuts (hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts)
• Plain, Greek yogurt
• Seaweed
• Chicken
• Beef
Foods to Avoid for Hypothyroidism
These foods may interfere with hormone production:
• Cruciferous vegetables
• Soy
• Processed foods (cakes, cookies, chips, fast food, etc.)
• Gluten
Foods That Are Good for Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when a person has an over-active thyroid gland. Some of the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include fatigue, weight loss, weakness, fast heart rate, heart palpitations, tremors, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, increased bowel movements, and anxiety.
• Iodized salt
• Egg whites
• Unsalted nuts
• Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, bok choy, etc.)
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Beef
• Seeds
• Mushrooms
• Seaweed
• Coconut oil
Foods to Avoid for Hyperthyroidism
These foods may interfere with hormone production:
• Excessive iodine (nori, kelp, sushi, fish, etc.)
• Milk
• Cheese
• Egg yolks
• Iodized water
• Processed meats
• Gluten
• Soy
• Caffeine
At The Salerno Center, we offer a TRH Stimulation test, which is far more accurate than the traditional Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test. The difference is our TRH Stimulation test evaluates the thyroid, hypothalamus, and pituitary glands to ensure they are functioning correctly. With the proper testing and an effective diet program, you are more likely to achieve the results you are looking for. If you live in the NYC metro area and are looking to take control of your thyroid problems, give us a call today.
