Human anatomy is complicated, even a slight imbalance in the body can lead to several issues and one such small yet important gland is Thyroid, which can wreak havoc on your body, if there’s a deficiency of iodine. In fact, thyroid gland controls your metabolism and all your organs and systems are indirectly dependent on this little thing that controls your hormones.
This gland takes iodine from your diet and converts it into various hormones that regulate the body. So, when it malfunctions, your body goes under intense fluctuations. If you feel like your body turning weak day-by-day and untimely mood swings and fatigue engulfs you, then it’s high time to visit a doctor and get yourself tested.
Thyroid Disorders
Over 12% of the population suffers from thyroid problems and most are unaware of it. But fret not, you can definitely tweak your diet and include foods that will help you to manage your thyroid level. If you don’t have thyroid, you can still include these foods to help prevent the ill effects of thyroid. However, if you have thyroid, these foods are a must to balance and improve your condition. There are many foods that help in regulating the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. So, let's take a look at them.
Iodized salt
Iodized Salt
It’s rich in iodine, which is the basic mineral required by the thyroid gland. The gland consumes iodine to produce the thyroid hormones that regulate your body functions. It’s rare that someone can get iodine deficiency but even a minor deficiency can affect the thyroid gland. Since these glands are the only ones that can absorb iodine, they are the ones that produce the required hormones in the body.
Brazil nuts
Brazil nuts are rich in
selenium and selenium is responsible for the metabolism of the thyroid gland as well as the antioxidant functions. A handful of brazil nuts are loaded with just the right amount of selenium that can help your body. Eat a couple of these nuts everyday to maintain the selenium levels of the thyroid gland.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower Seeds
The perfect snack to munch on, the sunflower seeds are also loaded with selenium. It’s also low in calories, so you need not worry as you devour this delicious snack.
Sardines
Sardines
Sardines are super rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which boosts your immunity. Immunity enhancing leads to a reduced risk of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Also known as Hashimoto, it’s a thyroid disease that is cause when your immune system is week. Loading up on a good amount of Omega 3 fatty acids can help your immunity which in turn helps your thyroid gland remain healthy.
Flax Seeds
Flax Seeds
Just like sardines, flax seeds are also very rich in omega 3 fatty acids. It is also a good source of iron which helps in regulating oxygen to the organs of the body, resulting in boosting the immune system, which reduces the risk of Hashimoto. You can consume about 50 gms of flax seeds every day to maintain a good and healthy immune system.
Low-Fat Greek Yogurt
Low fat Greek Yogurt
Greek Yogurt packs double benefits that help with thyroid. It’s full of iodine as well as plus Vitamin D. As we have already established, iodine is very important for the production of thyroid hormones. Vitamin D is involved in the regulation of the immune system, which helps prevent hashimoto. For a budget friendly cure, low-fat greek yogurt is the way to go.
Seaweed
Seaweed
This nautical green food is one of the best sources of iodine. It’s high nutritional value makes it a great thyroid helper but it should be consumed in moderation. One serving every week is enough to consume your required intake, but if you are not a fan of the green, you can opt for the supplements of the same. A concentrated supplement can be harmful in excess, so you should consult a doctor before deciding how much you need.
Eggs
Eggs
Eggs are an all-rounder. They are the best breakfast food for a reason. It provides you all the nutrients required for a healthy thyroid gland. Packed with iodine, selenium as well as omega 3 fatty acids. It’s the best food to have for an overall health improvement. It helps the thyroid gland and the immune system, so you shouldn’t miss out on it. Although it provides all the nutrients, it’s not the cure all for the problem. You should include it within a healthy, balanced diet to reap all benefits.
Apples
Apples
The saying that ‘An Apple a day keeps the doctor away’ is spot on! Especially when it comes to thyroid problems. Apples are also loaded with iodine, so snack up on the delicious and sweet fruit and say hello to a healthy gland.
Chicken
Chicken
Last, but not the least, chicken are a lean meat that are a great source of protein. But other than that, it’s also loaded with zinc. Zinc is required for the regulation of thyroid hormones in the body and chicken provides a healthy amount of it. So, don’t shy away from that extra piece of chicken and eat up!
