The Thyroid Diet Dos & Don'ts
Your thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth and development, as well as muscle and digestive function and bone maintenance. This essential endocrine gland requires several nutrients to function properly, and deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to thyroid disorders that affect your energy, weight, skin, digestion and overall well-being. In this blog, we'll discuss the best nutrition practices for thyroid health, including all the do’s and don’ts.
DO
Focus on eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet with a special attention to iodine, zinc, selenium, vitamin D, omega-3 and phytonutrients.
All of these nutrients play a powerful role in helping with thyroid hormone production, conversion and proper functioning.
Iodine is found in seafood and sea vegetables. Zinc is found in seeds, beef and poultry. Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium. Vitamin D is found in bony fish and dairy and the best way to get in Omega-3 is through fatty fish like salmon, tuna, sardines and herring.
DON’T
Get carried away with trying to consume the perfect diet or heavily rely on supplements for all your nutritional needs. Your body absorbs nutrients best when it comes mostly from food. That said…
DO
Consider supplements if you struggle to consume all your food groups for the day. You can first have a vitamin and/or micronutrient panel ordered by a clinician to determine if you have any current deficiencies and therefore, understand which supplements your body needs most. (we offer this at our practice)
DON’T
Assume you have a thyroid issue just because you’re struggling with weight issues. This is a common occurrence and can lead you down a rabbit hole of diagnosis disappointment and discouragement. There are many reasons why you might be having certain symptoms - thyroid issues are just one of many.
DO
Be your own advocate and if you suspect an issue with your thyroid, speak up and get tested.
DON’T
Be super restrictive with your diet either. There is some evidence that suggests eliminating certain foods like gluten, soy and other goitrogenic foods, such as cruciferous veggies, can improve thyroid functioning. However, this is not true for everyone and can cause more harm than good.
DO
Consult with an endocrinologist to understand if you might be dealing with a thyroid condition and a dietitian who specializes in hormonal and thyroid health to discuss diet, and other lifestyle changes you can make.