Diet for Hypothyroidism - Best and Worst Foods for Hypothyroidism

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces abnormally low thyroid hormones, then the best way to improve your thyroid function is by modifying your diet. There are certain foods that can control your symptoms of hypothyroidism, because they contain essential trace minerals which can stimulate the thyroid gland to produce enough thyroid hormones required by the body to function properly.

The following foods are very essential for controlling hypothyroidism symptoms:

Iodine rich foods

Iodine is an important trace mineral needed by thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. The main sources of iodine include seaweed, fish, fish and seafood. Iodized salt is also an important source but should be used in small quantities because it can cause high blood pressure if taken in excess.

Selenium rich foods

Selenium is another important trace element which can help to reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism. It's main function is to convert the thyroid hormone T4, produced by the body into active form T3, needed for body metabolism. Brazil nuts, peanuts, brown rice and tuna fish are good sources of selenium.

Tyrosine rich foods
Tyrosine is an essential amino acid which combines with iodine to produce thyroid hormone, thyroxine, T4. The ideal sources of tyrosine include fish, meat, turkey, yoghurt, low-fat milk, bananas, beans, avocados and almonds.

Protein rich foods
Every gland in the body is made up of protein, by eating high quality lean protein will ensure that all the glands are functioning properly including the thyroid gland. Meat, poultry and fish are good source of protein.

Fibers rich foods

Foods which are high in fibers can help to reduce the symptoms of weight gain associated with hypothyroidism. Fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables and whole grains are high in fibers, and so eat them regularly.

Vitamin Supplements
Foods which are very rich in vitamin B complex and C are very essential for maintaining normal thyroid hormone level and must be included in your daily diet. Major sources of these vitamins include banana, oranges, carrots, fish and whole grains. These vitamins can also be taken as supplements.

Worst foods

You need to avoid certain foods if you are suffering from hypothyroidism. This is because these foods can damage the thyroid cells and thereby inhibit the productions of thyroid hormones. Some of these foods include vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, mustard, cabbage and turnips. Soy products can also aggravate the symptoms of hypothyroidism as a result of isoflavones substances which are present in soy products. They are found to limit the ability of thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.

To know a proper diet to take is an important step towards controlling your hypothyroidism. These foods are natural ways to reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism, but there are other Natural Remedies For Hypothyroidism which comprises of herbs and regular body exercises. To learn more in order to enjoy a healthy lifestyle visit http://www.squidoo.com/natural-remedies-for-hypothyroidism.

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