Diets to Control Thyroid Problems

If you have been dealing with thyroid issues but not able to overcome the problems, you should turn to diet changes to help control thyroid problems and associated complications. You do have an option of going or alternative medicine practice to get over thyroid problems, but complementing the standard treatment with food options helps restoring thyroid function.

Thyroid diseases, both hyperactive and hypoactive affect millions around the world every year. A study published in the Diet Channel revealed that over 10 per cent of men and 20 per cent of women have some kind of thyroid problem. Owing to improper thyroid gland functions, hormone production gets affected, which in turn disrupts metabolism. Those with the thyroid problems have a common concern of difficultly in metabolising food, which is more serious for individuals with overactive thyroids.

A requisite diet plan encompassing right food and healthy food choices become very essential to curb thyroid problems. Those with thyroid problems must have the following:

A variety of protein foods – Protein is essential for normal body functions. Meat, poultry and fish are excellent sources of protein, although beef should be should always be avoided. Fish such as salmon, tuna and swordfish are an excellent source of protein as well as omega-3 fatty acids. There are fair chances of some species having an elevated levels of mercury, thus, eating fish in moderation is advisable. Among other protein options you have are flax, seaweed, nuts, peanut, almond butter and pumpkin. According to The Diet Channel, proteins in combination with minerals have a positive effect on the thyroid.

Salt and Sweetener – Salt is one of the essential diet elements and its deficiency can lead to many medical conditions. In case of overactive thyroid, iodised table salt must be swapped by a non-iodised salt, such as sea salt or kosher salt. Sweeteners such as aspartame have also been linked often to the thyroid problems.

Soy – Soy is considered one of the safest and healthy foods, but this might not be the case. In case of the thyroid patients, soy is neither beneficial nor safe. It interferes with the absorption of thyroid regulating medication, making individuals with thyroid problems gain weight suddenly or feels ill or experience fatigue. So, when you pick up food products from grocery store, make sure you read label of it.

The conditions of thyroid imbalance, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, cannot be reversed with foods or nutrients; however, eating right and may have a positive impact on their medical condition.