The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy levels. Unfortunately, thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are becoming increasingly common, and can lead to a host of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain or loss, and mood imbalances. I’ve personally had Hashimoto’s the autoimmune disorder of the thyroid for over 5 years now and these are some of the best thyroid healing foods I eat often to help me have good thyroid health.
One of the best ways to support thyroid health is through diet. Incorporating certain thyroid-healing foods can help to nourish and support the gland, while avoiding others that may be harmful.
Here are some of the best foods to include in your diet for thyroid health:
- Sea vegetables: Kelp and other sea vegetables are an excellent source of iodine, which is essential for proper thyroid function. Iodine is used by the thyroid to produce hormones, so make sure to include seaweed in your diet on a regular basis. I personally like to buy the seaweed snacks from a place like Thrive market or you can find them at Walmart or other grocery stores. They are a great alternative to chips or crackers as they have a salty taste and provide the crunch that I often crave and I know that many other people do as well.
- Brazil nuts: These nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a mineral that is essential for thyroid health. Selenium helps to convert inactive thyroid hormones into their active form, which can help to improve metabolism and energy levels. I don’t eat a lot of these but I find that 3-5 at one time every once in a while can be beneficial. I also take a selenium supplement since it’s hard to get enough just from diet alone.
- Berries: Berries such as blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to support the immune system and reduce inflammation in the thyroid. I like to eat them plain or in a smoothie with almond milk and collagen. You need to be careful with strawberries though as they are a goiter centric food and can actually make the thyroid worse.
- Lean protein: Eating high-quality, lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and eggs can help to support the thyroid by providing it with the building blocks it needs to produce hormones.
- Cruciferous vegetables: Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale contain compounds called goitrogens, which can inhibit thyroid function. While these vegetables are healthy in moderate amounts, it is best to limit consumption if you have a thyroid disorder. I personally avoid eating them raw at all. I’ve found that as long as they are at least lightly steamed then I don’t have a problem and they can help me with my thyroid healing.
- Probiotics-rich food: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and support overall health. Probiotics-rich food such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can also support thyroid health as they help in maintaining a healthy gut. However, dairy products can cause problems in a lot of people with thyroid issues. I know I can’t handle most dairy so I do dairy free with the yogurt and kefir. You also want to avoid flavored ones with a lot of sugar as they negates the health benefits.
In addition to incorporating these thyroid-healing foods into your diet, it’s also important to avoid foods that can be harmful to the thyroid. These include processed foods, refined sugars, and foods that are high in trans fats. By nourishing your thyroid with the right foods, you can help to support optimal hormone production, metabolism, and energy levels.
It’s always better to consult a specialist or a doctor before making any dietary changes, especially if you have a thyroid disorder.
Check out my Hashimoto’s Journal and Planner- Print on Amazon, Printable PDF from Etsy
Did this help you? If so, I would greatly appreciate a share on Facebook, twitter, linkedin, or pinterest.
My Favorite Products (Affiliate links- if you make a purchase I may earn a small commission)
Thrive Market - healthy gluten free, sugar free and speciality online food and household products
Silk and Sonder Monthly Journals and Planners
My Portable Infrared Sauna
Self Care Journal
Martie discounted food
Olipop - healthy soda with probiotics and prebiotics
Digestion Kit
Stress Oils
