Natural Hypothyroidism Treatment: Diet and Lifestyle

What to eat if you are controlling hypothyroidism

“There are no foods that increase thyroid hormone, but there are foods that a person with hypothyroidism should eat more of,” says Rizzo.

When you research the best foods for hypothyroidism, you probably won’t find many surprising selections. Most lists reflect an unprocessed, nutrient-dense diet that is typically recommended for most people. But some vitamins and nutrients are particularly important for thyroid health.

Here are the great nutrients and vitamins for thyroid health:

Iodine

While iodine deficiency is relatively rare in the United States due to the country’s mandatory “salt iodization” legislation, people in countries without iodine-fortified foods may need to increase their consumption.

Megan CasperNew York City-based dietician notes that iodine deficiency is the leading cause of hypothyroidism worldwide. The body cannot produce this mineral, so dietary sources such as iodized salt, dairy products, seafood, seaweed, and fortified cereals are important.

“Iodine is an essential nutrient in the body and thyroid hormones are made of iodine,” says Rizzo. “Those who lack thyroid hormones may also lack iodine.”

The recommended daily amount of iodine is 150 micrograms (mcg), less than half the amount in 1 teaspoon (teaspoon) of iodized salt.

If you and your doctor have determined that you are getting enough iodine, do not supplement your diet, as this could worsen your condition.

tyrosine

As with iodine, you’ll want to talk to a doctor to see if you would benefit from eating more foods with tyrosine or taking a supplement. This is because this amino acid has the potential to interact with hypothyroidism medications.

But considering its function, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting enough of the amino acid: Along with iodine, tyrosine makes thyroid hormone.

Foods with tyrosine include:

Alga
Turkey
Eggs
Cottage cheese

vitamin d

“Most people with hypothyroidism are vitamin D deficient, but the mechanism for this is unknown,” says Rizzo.

An adequate amount of vitamin D in your diet can help prevent diseases related to vitamin D deficiency, such as bone loss and malformations.

Foods rich in vitamin D include:

Eggs
Fatty fish such as wild salmon
Dairy products such as Greek yogurt.

Antioxidants

Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants are known to help fight diseases.

but having hypothyroidism means you have another reason to consume these superfoods.

These foods fight oxidative stress, a state of increased inflammation associated with hypothyroidism and other chronic diseases.

To get your dose of antioxidants, look for:

berries
Balls
Seeds
Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale

Selenium

“The highest concentration of selenium is found in the thyroid gland and is vital for the enzymes that help the thyroid function,” says Rizzo. “Many people with hypothyroidism may lack this important nutrient, which has a major effect on the immune system, cognitive function and fertility.”

Valuable sources of selenium include:

Seafood
Eggs
Seeds
brazil nuts

If you are taking a supplement, keep in mind that the upper limit for adults is around 400 micrograms mcg, but some say you should limit it to less than 255 mcg.

Work with a healthcare professional to find the right amount for you.