How to eat with reduced thyroid gland function - hypothyroidism?

 

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder in which there are low levels of thyroid hormones. The nutritional regime in case of reduced thyroid gland function  supports the control of body weight and the acquisition of the necessary nutrients, in order to maintain normal function of the gland. In order to avoid weight gain , the appropriate diet should be rich in iodine and nutrients that are involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones - selenium, vitamin B12 and vitamin D.

 

The daily iodine requirement for adults is 150 micrograms. Some foods are valuable sources of iodine: 

• Seafood;
• Seaweed;
• Fish;
• Milk and milk products;
• Iodized salt;

Selenium contributes to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which is why its intake is a key element in the diet for hypothyroidism. Valuable sources of selenium are:

• Brazil nuts;
• Oily fish;
• Seafood;
• Meat products;
• Eggs;
• Shiitake mushrooms;
• Whole grain products. 

Vitamin B12 is important for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. It has been found that 30% of hypothyroid patients are deficient in vitamin B12. Foods rich in this vitamin are:

• Mussels;
• Seafood;
• Fish;
• Pork, beef and chicken;
• Eggs;
• Dairy products;
• Soy milk and products;
• Whole grain products.

Vitamin D deficiency  is also often associated with decreased thyroid function. That's why it's important to get enough of it by eating:

• Soy milk and products;
• Oily fish;
• Butter;
• Yellow;
• Shiitake mushrooms;

Certain foods should be avoided in hypothyroidism. Such are the strumogenic food products, which slow down the functions of the thyroid gland and disrupt the absorption of iodine, which is a key element in the production of thyroid hormones . Such foods are: 

• Brussels sprouts;
• Cabbage;
• Cauliflower;
• Broccoli;
• Sweet potatoes;
• Peanuts;

The diet for hypothyroidism should include a minimum amount of fat . This has implications for both weight control and cardiovascular risk reduction. Consuming low-fat dairy products is recommended, as well as limiting certain fattier foods that add extra calories. Yeah, they're like that:

• Butter;
• Oil and nut oils;
• Sauces;
• Vinaigrette.

References:

https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Nutrition/Dietes/Fiche.aspx?doc=diete-hypothyroidie