If you have hypothyroidism it is very important to know that the type of diet you follow can help you reduce your symptoms, and at the same time help you control your weight. Weight gain goes hand in hand with hypothyroidism and for some people it is quite difficult to lose weight with this condition.
There are key nutrients and foods that a hypothyroidism diet should include. On the other hand, there are certain foods that should be avoided.
What should your diet have
A healthy diet for someone with hypothyroidism would include whole grains, natural foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, and a good supply of seafood and other lean proteins. You should reduce fatty meats. A multivitamin is probably a good idea if you don’t already take one.
an important mineral
Selenium may be the most important nutrient in a hypothyroidism diet.
Why?
This trace mineral is an antioxidant and is essential for converting the thyroid hormone your body produces, T4, into its active form, T3. Brazil nuts are an incredibly good source of selenium, but you can also get it from some lean meats.
Fiber is key to managing your weight
Another tactic that will come in handy if you are trying to lose weight is to eat more fiber. Fiber makes you feel full and can help you lose weight, as well as being helpful for constipation, another side effect of hypothyroidism.
You can get your fiber in pill form or through one of those over-the-counter fiber concoctions, but it’s much better if you get your fiber from real foods, like beans, rice and other grains, whole wheat, and oats.
Strive for whole grains, also known as complex carbohydrates, rather than refined grains (things made with white flour or sugar). They are better for you, help keep your blood sugar level stable, and make you feel fuller.
Alcohol should also be avoided because it can cause blood sugar fluctuations.
A diet with more meals
Ideally, a diet for low thyroid function will include small meals spread out throughout the day rather than three large meals. Eating five or six small meals will help balance the slow metabolism that is part of hypothyroidism. Just remember, keep these meals around 300 calories each and include exercise if you want to lose weight too.
Some doctors recommend the Zone diet for people with hypothyroidism. The why behind the system is somewhat complicated, but it has to do with balancing your insulin reaction to food, limiting the spikes and dips you’re likely to feel right now. Carbohydrates are a big part of this diet, particularly the refined grains we just talked about.
The diet calls for drinking plenty of water (a good idea for anyone), eating more fruits and vegetables and less pasta, bread and starches, and a small amount of lean protein throughout the day. Most of your carbohydrates should come from fruits and vegetables, and other starches should be used sparingly. You should also not go more than five hours between meals.
red light foods
As we said before, your diet should not include certain foods. Some vegetables, fruits, and grains can depress the function of the thyroid gland. To learn more about these foods visit diet for hypothyroidism.