Diets for Thyroid Problems

Answer 1

Thyroid problems usually fall into one of two categories: hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is when your body does not produce enough thyroid hormone, or it produces enough hormone but does not absorb it effectively. Hyperthyroidism is when your body produces too much thyroid hormone.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, constipation, a horse voice, fatigue, headaches, and aches in the arms and legs. In general, hypothyroidism is a slowing of the body's systems. Some people report that medications do not seem to work well when the thyroid is underperforming. Hyperthyroidism symptoms include anxiety, weight loss, and heart palpitations.

Goitgrogens are foods that affect the way the thyroid functions. Foods in this class inhibit thyroid hormone production and should be avoided by anyone with hypothyroidism. Cabbage, millet, cassava, mustard greens, soy and spinach are all common goitgrogens. Patients with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism should eat plenty of lean meats, fish, poultry, antioxidant-containing foods, and most vegetables. Patients with hyperthyroidism can also eat foods that contain goitgrogens. However, soy should only be eaten with the approval of your doctor if you are taking any kind of thyroid medication.

A healthy lifestyle is important for the treatment of thyroid hormone disorders. Exercise has a beneficial effect on both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, so patients with either should get at least 30 minutes of exercise five days per week.

Some herbs and supplements may be effective for treating disorders of the thyroid. Sometimes thyroid problems are caused by a lack of iodine; in these cases, iodine supplements can be beneficial. This is rarely a problem in countries like the United States, where all commercially available table salt contains iodine as an additive, but can be a problem in developing countries. Sufferers of hypothyroidism might consider taking selenium supplements, since a lack of selenium in the blood can cause the body to absorb inadequate amounts of thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism sufferers may benefit from supplements of vitamins A, C, and E, which are antioxidants. Anyone with a thyroid disorder should consult a doctor regarding the consumption of alcohol and caffeine, both of which can disrupt the body's metabolism.