An estimated 27 million Americans have thyroid disease, and more than half are undiagnosed. Frequently misunderstood, and too often overlooked and misdiagnosed, thyroid disease affects almost every aspect of health. Taking care of it with good nutrition is a smart step in the right direction.
The following are foods that can nurture a healthy thyroid, as well as ones to avoid.
COCONUT. Coconut and coconut butter, commonly known as coconut oil, has been used as a food and medicine since the dawn of history. Unlike saturated animal fats found in meats and dairy products, coconut butter is a raw saturated fat containing fatty acids that the body can metabolize efficiently and convert to energy quickly. Research also shows it helps to regulate thyroid function.
KELP. Kelp is a nutrient-dense sea vegetable. It contains a natural substance that enhances flavor and tenderizes. Kelp works as a blood purifier, and promotes adrenal, pituitary and thyroid health. Its natural iodine may help normalize thyroid-related disorders like obesity and lymph system congestion.
SEA SALT. Iodized salt is the worst thing to use if you want to keep your thyroid healthy. Even though the gland needs iodine, too much of a good thing can be a problem. Instead, use sea salt, which has a nice balance of minerals that will help support your body. But don't overdo it--too much of a good thing is not any good at all.
TURKEY. Turkey is one of the leanest protein foods and is low in calories, making it an excellent healthy food choice. Turkey also contains selenium which has been shown to inhibit cancer development, improve the immune system, and aid in the metabolism of our thyroid hormone.
VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS
COPPER and IRON. Both copper and iron are very important for thyroid function. Foods rich in copper are organ meats, oysters, clams, crabs, cashews, sunflower seeds, wheat bran cereals, whole-grain products, and cocoa products. Foods high in iron are leafy green vegetables, beans, shellfish, red meat, and poultry.
SELENIUM. Because selenium deficiency is a major factor in low thyroid function, you should regularly include selenium-rich foods in your diet. Good sources of selenium are wheat germ, seafood and shellfish, beef liver and kidney, eggs, sunflower and sesame seeds, brazil nuts, mushrooms, garlic, and onions.
VITAMIN C. Make sure you get adequate amounts of vitamin C in your diet from foods like citrus fruits, red berries, tomatoes, potatoes, and bell peppers to help maximize your body’s iron absorption efficiency.
I'm 35 years old, battling hypothyroidism and have been on synthetics.I have a slender body and follow a healthy diet but my weight has been increasing incredibly. I think I need to switch to natural thyroid now.
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