The thyroid is a gland present in front of the neck that takes care of the overall hormonal secretion and functioning of the body. The normal functioning of thyroid hormones is very important but as we know it is not what happens in reality. Thyroid disease is becoming common day by day both in men and women and causes various body dysfunction with the most effect on weight.
A proper thyroid diet helps in controlling the side effects of the disease and acts as a precautionary step to safeguard ourselves from getting the disease. Though there is little control over the disease occurs because the main causes are:
- Iodine Deficiency
- Antibody attacks are common after pregnancy
- Situations where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, this is why thyroid disease is also known as an autoimmune disease.
- Tumors indicating cancer, etc.
So, now that we know some of the causes of thyroid, let us know further about an ideal diet for thyroid. Since hypothyroidism is a common condition leading to weight gain, we will focus on a thyroid diet for weight loss and provide you with easy yet interesting tips.
BENEFICIAL FOOD ITEMS FOR THE IDEAL THYROID DIET PLAN
- Salt
As we already know, iodine deficiency is one of the causes of thyroid disease. Now, continuing to ignore the deficiency can aggravate the health and cause trouble. Salt is the most common and effective source of iodine that most of us prefer.
So, make sure to incorporate a moderate amount of salt daily. Consuming no more than 6 mg or 1 teaspoon of salt is an ideal quantity. You can add it on top of the salads as dressing, in yogurt, vegetables, or even chapati for added taste. Switching to fries to consume a good amount of salt is not an ideal option as it can lead to weight gain!
Too much salt causes water retention which further leads to weight gain. So, keep your salt levels moderate.
- Nuts
Nuts have a beneficial component in them named selenium. Selenium helps in activating the thyroid hormones. Thyroid disease affects the secretion of thyroid hormones which are essential for body functioning. The consumption of selenium activates those hormones helping in stabilizing our body functioning. Brazilian nuts are the best source of selenium in the nuts category.
Cashews and almonds are rich in iron and zinc nutrients that are beneficial for thyroid function as well. Iron is one of the most important minerals to determine normal thyroid functioning.
Also, nuts can be easily replaced with snacks or munchies. This makes our munching time or snack time healthy and nutritious.
- Eggs
Eggs coming from farms, commonly known as pastured eggs are often considered to be the best type to consume. The yolk of the eggs is highly nutritious with good amounts of iodine and selenium, both help with improving thyroid health.
Also, eggs are commonly popular for being protein-rich. Proteins help in increasing the rate of metabolism and are very healthy for us. Hypothyroidism often slows down the rate of metabolism. So, proteins present in the eggs help with increasing metabolism.
An omelet cooked with fewer oils and lots of vegetables seems to be a perfect breakfast filled with nutrition and taste. Also, eggs don’t cause weight gain, aren’t they just perfect for a thyroid diet!
- Dairy Products
Dairy products like milk, yogurt, ice-creams, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium, iodine, and zinc. All of these nutrients are good for stimulating thyroid hormones and protect the gland from enlarging leading to goitre.
Dairy products are easily available and convenient to consume. Milk and yogurt can be made a part of the daily diet as they benefit the thyroid as well as the other parts of the body. Ice-creams and cheese can be kept for occasional consumption as excessive cheese can cause weight gain and too much ice cream can cause fever, cough, and cold.
These were some of the important food items that must be included in the thyroid diet plan. A diet plan must be made personally, keeping in mind the food we like and enjoy consuming. Following a diet does not mean that you will have to give up on your favorites. Everyone is allowed a cheat day. The whole process depends on how you formulate an easy, healthy and nutritious thyroid diet for yourself without feeling miserable.
FOOD ITEMS TO AVOID
Some of the food items that we must avoid especially during thyroid disease are:
- Millets
- High-processed foods like cookies, cakes, packed food items, etc.
- Fruits like strawberries and pears
- Beverages like alcohol, coffee, and green tea are known to irritate the thyroid gland.
CONCLUSION
Nothing is perfect. If something is perfect for all, it is not perfect for you. Food, clothes, lifestyle choices are highly personalized and must be drafted personally. A thyroid diet plan is no such exception.
Diet is an integral part of your life especially when it comes to a diet for disease. A meal should make you feel happy and content. Food that makes you smile, is the one that will benefit your body more. So, grab a pen and paper and prepare a perfect thyroid diet plan just for you!
