Foods for Thyroid Health

Understanding Foods for Thyroid Health

What Role Does the Thyroid Gland Play in Overall Health?

The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, controlling how quickly it burns calories and uses energy. 

Additionally, the gland plays a crucial role in regulating heart rate, body temperature, digestion, metabolism, and mental health. Studies have shown that “[a]n overactive thyroid makes too many hormones (hyperthyroidism),” and “[a]n underactive thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones (hypothyroidism).”

Thyroid issues may cause unexpected weight gain, problems with the immune system, mood swings, and other health conditions. A balanced diet improves thyroid gland function, aids in weight loss, lowers cholesterol, reduces the risk of heart disease, and improves blood pressure.

How Do Thyroid Hormones Affect Metabolism, Energy, and Weight?

Hormones in the thyroid gland regulate metabolism, energy, and weight by controlling your basal metabolic rate (BMR), which is the amount of energy your body burns while at rest.

The thyroid affects almost every cell in your body. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism both have a profound impact on how the body functions and your metabolism.

Hormones produced by the thyroid gland include: 

• Thyroxine (T4): Regulates how food turns into energy within your body by influencing digestion, heart health, brain development, and bone health
• Triiodothyronine (T3): Regulates body temperature, influences brain development, maintains heart function, and increases metabolism
• Calcitonin: Reduces how much phosphate and calcium are in your blood and promotes bone growth

Disruption of these hormones can affect brain development, digestion, bone and heart health, weight management, and other aspects of your well-being.

What Are Common Thyroid Conditions, Including Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism?

An overactive or underactive thyroid may lead to a whole host of conditions, including Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, autoimmune thyroid disease, goiter, thyroid cancer, Graves’ disease, and other forms of thyroid dysfunction.

Low iodine intake can cause thyroid problems or worsen symptoms of hypothyroidism. Some thyroid conditions may contribute to other medical issues, including celiac disease.

Selenium supplementation, magnesium, iodine supplements, levothyroxine, and anti-inflammatory medications can help mitigate the side effects of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Most people with thyroid issues work with experts in endocrinology to determine the best way to address their specific condition and any co-occurring or underlying diseases that impact thyroid function.

Nutrients and Foods That Support Thyroid Function

Which Foods Are Best for Thyroid Health, Including Whole Grains and Seafood?

Whole foods, including nuts, grains, seafood, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, provide your body with essential nutrients and fiber. 

Some specific foods that improve symptoms related to thyroid issues include: 

• Kelp
• Shellfish
• Brussels sprouts 
• Sardines
• Lentils
• Green veggies

A gluten-free diet may also reduce your risk of developing celiac disease or other conditions impacted by the thyroid gland. LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers the nutritional support you need to enhance your overall health and wellness.

How Do Selenium, Iodine, and Antioxidants Support Thyroid Hormone Production?

Selenium, iodine, and antioxidants provide essential support to thyroid function by protecting the thyroid and allowing it to synthesize hormones.

The thyroid and other parts of the endocrine system require specific elements, such as iodine, to regulate metabolism, balance hormones, and support the immune system. Essential vitamins and minerals give your thyroid the ability to produce hormones that control how your body stores and uses energy.

Specific minerals, such as selenium, play a critical role in thyroid gland function.

According to the International Journal of Endocrinology, “In the thyroid, selenium is required for the antioxidant function and for the metabolism of thyroid hormones.” In addition, “The maintenance of a physiological concentration of selenium (selenostasis) through a balanced diet or, alternatively, via supplementation is a prerequisite not only to prevent thyroid disease but also to maintain overall health.”

Can Plant-Based Options Like Legumes, Brazil Nuts, and Cruciferous Vegetables Support a Healthy Thyroid?

Yes, legumes, nuts, and whole vegetables support a healthy thyroid by repairing damage, supporting hormone production, and balancing thyroid function.

If you have a vitamin D deficiency or lack other essential nutrients, it may affect thyroid function. Plant-based food options are a good source of vitamins and minerals.

LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers a wide range of meal options that use plant-based alternatives, nuts, legumes, and veggies to supplement specialized diets. You can choose from an extensive catalogue of meals to find the ones that meet your needs and food preferences.

Foods and Habits to Avoid for Thyroid Wellness

Which Processed Foods and Added Sugars Can Negatively Affect Thyroid Function?

Sugary soda, fried foods, ultra-processed packaged snacks, and processed meats negatively impact thyroid function and other body systems. 

Some of the specific foods that may interfere with the thyroid and cause inflammation or other issues include: 

• Frozen meals with artificial preservatives 
• Fast food
• Bacon, sausage, and other processed meats
• Pasta made with refined grains
• White bread
• Sugary fruit juice
• Desserts with high amounts of added sugar
• Granola bars and other “healthy” snacks are high in added sugars and low in nutrients 

You can read labels to determine if foods meet your dietary needs or if they may contribute to health issues. LifeSpring Home Nutrition provides details on all meals to ensure you make informed decisions about your meals.

Why Should Large Amounts of Certain Cruciferous Vegetables Be Monitored?

Some cruciferous vegetables may impact thyroid function if you have an iodine deficiency due to high amounts of goitrogens in these specific foods.

If your weekly meal plans include a large amount of cruciferous vegetables, it is recommended that you consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you do not ingest too many goitrogens. Healthy individuals can safely consume a moderate amount of cruciferous vegetables throughout the week.

Some examples of common cruciferous vegetables include: 

• Cauliflower 
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Kale
• Brussels sprouts 

LifeSpring Home Nutrition incorporates whole vegetables into many meals to provide essential vitamins and minerals.

How Can Gluten, Dairy, and Other Dietary Choices Impact Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders?

Gluten and dairy can significantly impact autoimmune thyroid disorders by increasing inflammation and negatively affecting the gut-thyroid axis.

The primary protein in gluten is similar to enzymes in thyroid tissues. If you have a gluten sensitivity, your body may generate antibodies that then attack both the protein in gluten and thyroid tissue.

People with celiac disease and other food sensitivities may benefit from avoiding those foods to reduce stress in the immune system and lower their risk of thyroid problems.

Dairy is another common food sensitivity that you may need to navigate carefully. Some dairy products have essential vitamins and minerals. However, you will want to speak with a dietitian or other professional about any food sensitivities you may have and potential alternatives to dairy or gluten.

Creating a Meal Plan for Thyroid Health

How Can a Balanced Meal Plan Support Stable Thyroid Hormone Levels?

A healthy meal plan ensures your thyroid receives the right amount of nutrients to support hormone production and function, while limiting the intake of harmful foods.

Every type of thyroid condition requires different dietary adjustments to ensure you receive the optimal amount of vitamins and minerals. According to Nutrients, “Micronutrients such as iodine, selenium, iron, zinc, copper, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 influence thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation throughout life.”

A balanced meal plan supports your thyroid hormone levels by doing the following: 

• Managing blood sugar levels
• Reducing inflammation 
• Supporting a healthy metabolism and weight

Weekly home-delivered meals from LifeSpring Home Nutrition make it easy and convenient for you to create a balanced meal plan. The meal prep team collaborates to ensure each meal addresses your specific dietary requirements.

What Are the Benefits of Medically Tailored Meals for Those With Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s?

Medically tailored meals (MTMs) offer a wide range of food options tailored to your specific dietary needs. 

Supplements complement MTMs to improve your physical and mental health.

Some of the primary benefits MTMs provide to people with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s disease include:

• Identifies and prevents interactions between foods and prescription medications
• Improves adherence to dietary guidelines
• Provides flexibility and allows for customized meal plans
• Enhances overall well-being

LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers medically tailored meals personalized to your specific condition. Thyroid diseases and other medical conditions can improve with positive dietary changes. MTMs also support immune and heart health, ensuring your overall wellness.

How Can Nutrition Support Weight Management and Overall Well-Being While Supporting Thyroid Function?

Weight management and nutritional support improve thyroid function by reducing your risk of preventable diseases.

Essential vitamins and minerals, including iodine, zinc, B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin E, and selenium, are crucial for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Developing a meal plan that provides you with the necessary balance of nutrients promotes overall health and wellness.

The thyroid manages the body’s metabolism and energy levels. How you manage thyroid issues will affect your ability to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Working With Health Professionals

When Should You Consult a Healthcare Provider or Endocrinologist About Thyroid Health?

If you notice unexplained weight gain or loss, fatigue, or changes in your mood, consult a healthcare provider. 

If you have a family history of thyroid issues, it’s recommended that you discuss potential screening options with your doctor. People at high risk of these diseases benefit from getting regular medical checkups to ensure healthcare providers catch potential issues before they cause significant side effects.

How Can Supplements, Including Selenium or Iodine, Be Used Safely Under Professional Guidance?

You can safely use supplements by collaborating with a healthcare professional to determine the dose, potential risks, and benefits of various supplements. 

Some factors to consider include your current health status, how your diet may interact with supplements, and whether you should use supplements or prescription medications to address specific side effects of thyroid disease. The more details you take into account, the more likely you are to develop a meal plan and supplement regimen that supports your thyroid function.

A healthcare provider can order tests to check for mineral or vitamin deficiencies, and if necessary, they can monitor your thyroid with regular tests to determine if you need supplements.

The dosage of supplements will depend on several factors, including your current health, diet, activity level, weight, and any existing medical conditions or risk factors. For example, pregnant women may have a higher risk of thyroid issues and require prescription medications or supplements to ensure proper thyroid function.

What Role Does Regular Monitoring of TSH and Thyroid Hormone Levels Play in Managing Thyroid Conditions?

Monitoring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormone levels enables you to manage thyroid conditions more effectively, ensure the effectiveness of treatment, and identify potential complications. 

A few of the primary benefits and key roles of monitoring thyroid hormone levels include: 

• Diagnosis and assessing potential diseases or other conditions impacting your thyroid function and metabolism 
• Quickly and effectively adjusting treatment to address changes over time
• Detecting and preventing potential complications before they impact your health
• Greater control over your treatment and care

Hormonal changes can significantly impact both your physical and psychological health. Being mindful of your condition and making adjustments to your diet and lifestyle can help manage your well-being and reduce your risk of preventable diseases.

FAQs

Can diet alone improve thyroid function?

Diet alone cannot fully address thyroid issues. A combination of medical treatment and dietary changes can help improve your thyroid function.

According to Metabolism Open, “Obesity is closely linked to thyroid dysfunction.” In addition, “Maintenance of protein and nutritional status has beneficial effects on thyroid function.”

Introducing exercise and dietary changes into your weekly routine can support thyroid health by doing the following: 

• Regulating metabolism and energy levels
• Reducing the effects of inflammatory diseases 
• Balancing blood sugar levels

Many foods promote these positive changes. Combining healthier foods with regular physical activity enhances the benefits of eating foods that support thyroid function. Most people work with their primary care doctor to create a personalized meal and exercise plan that aligns with their health goals.

Which foods should be avoided with Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease?

Some of the foods you should try to avoid if you have Hashimoto’s disease or Graves’ disease include highly processed foods, gluten, refined sugars, and high-fructose corn syrup.

Frequent or excessive alcohol use may interfere with hormone production and protein absorption. You should avoid raw cruciferous vegetables to increase iodine content.

Eating cooked vegetables, limiting alcohol use, and replacing saturated fats with healthy alternatives will improve your thyroid function, making it easier for you to manage thyroid-related disorders.

LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers balanced meals, information, and community-based programs that can help you make healthier diet and lifestyle choices.

How do I know if I’m getting enough selenium or iodine in my diet?

You can monitor your diet to ensure you eat the recommended amount of foods rich in iodine, such as Brazil nuts, eggs, dairy products, seafood, seaweed, and iodized salt.

Some known signs of selenium or iodine deficiency include: 

• Unusual fatigue
• Unexplained weakness
• Unintentional weight gain

Your doctor may order a blood or urine test to determine if you have nutritional deficiencies affecting your thyroid gland.

Can thyroid medication be taken safely with certain foods or supplements?

You can safely take thyroid medication with certain foods and supplements; however, it is essential to consult with your primary care provider before adding new supplements to your diet.

Some prescription thyroid medications should not be mixed with certain foods or supplements.

According to Pharmaceuticals, “Levothyroxine (l-thyroxine, l-T4) is a drug of choice for treating primary hypothyroidism, which [. . .] generally occurs due to Hashimoto thyroiditis, thyroidectomy, or iodine deficiency.” In addition, “Interactions between l-T4 and food may affect the safety and efficacy of the treatment but are still widely underestimated by patients and health care professionals.”

You can work with medical professionals to create a meal plan that allows you to safely take thyroid medications and supplements. LifeSpring Home Nutrition can tailor meals to help reduce your risk of complications associated with dietary changes.

How quickly can dietary changes impact symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, or hair loss?

Dietary changes may positively impact symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, and weight gain within months when used in conjunction with prescription medications or other medical treatments.

Multiple factors influence how quickly a diet may affect your health and the symptoms or side effects of your condition. In some cases, you may not notice changes for several months or years.

Any health changes caused strictly by dietary changes happen gradually and often benefit from additional supplements and prescription medications. Medically tailored meals from LifeSpring Home Nutrition may help you more easily maintain healthy nutritional changes.

The thyroid gland plays a critical role in metabolism and other essential functions. LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers medically tailored meals designed to support thyroid health. To learn more about our services and meal options, call us today at (800) 798-5767.