Diet In Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: What Nutrients?
Diet in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is essential to prevent a serious clinical picture that totally alters the person’s lifestyle. Hyperthyroidism is a disease caused by a hormonal imbalance, therefore it often also requires the prescription of drugs.
Thyroid diseases are of two types: excessive production of thyroid hormones or a deficiency, with its consequences for health.
What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism causes inflammation of the thyroid gland which causes it to malfunction. In these cases, it is important to take care of your diet to prevent the disease from worsening, or that the gland becomes less and less able to perform its functions.
We must not forget that the thyroid produces hormones that are crucial for metabolic function. A low amount of thyroid hormones causes an increase in body weight. In severe cases, chronic inflammation of the gland leads to the appearance of a tumor.
Through the diet it is possible to offer nutrients that improve thyroid function. On the other hand, taking care of your diet counteracts the weight gain induced by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Let us remember once again that overweight and obesity are extremely harmful to health, because they increase the risk of suffering from other ailments as well.
Diet in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: foods to avoid
In the following lines we list the foods to avoid when suffering from Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism. By not eating them, we can slow down the course of the disease.
Cruciferous
Although recommended as part of a balanced diet, cruciferous vegetables can inflame the thyroid. These vegetables should be avoided if you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as they may increase the risk of inflammation. In the cruciferous group we find: white cabbage, green cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower.
Nuts and peanuts
The same goes for nuts and peanuts. They contain a large amount of antinutrients that can reduce the absorption of iodine in the intestine.
Spinach and carrots
Unlike the previous foods, which should be avoided altogether, with spinach and carrots you can be more flexible. It is enough not to include them in the daily diet.
As for the diet in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, these are foods that can offer several benefits when consumed in moderation.
Foods you need to eat more
One of the key aspects of the diet in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the need to increase the amounts of iodine. According to a study published in Recent Patents on Endocrine , Metabolic & Immune Drug Discovery , iodine is an essential nutrient for the production of thyroid hormones.
Fish
Fish contains an abundance of iodine, as well as omega 3 fatty acids, which possess remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. For this reason they have a double action when it comes to fighting Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism.
Seafood
Like fish, seafood also contains a lot of iodine. However, it is good to remember that people with high levels of uric acid in their blood should consume them in moderation to avoid any problems.
Dairy product
Dairy products contain high doses of iodine and probiotics, capable of colonizing the digestive system and exerting a positive metabolic effect. They are ideal for keeping weight under control.
Diet in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Other Important Nutrients
In addition to the foods listed, it is important to increase your intake of the following nutrients, as they too are involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones:
- Zinc : present in red meat and dried fruit.
- Iron : found in foods of animal origin.
- Manganese : It is common in nuts and cereals.
- Vitamin A : It can be ingested through green, red or orange vegetables.
- Selenium : present mainly in nuts and cereals, but also in dairy products.
Diet in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is not enough
Diet alone is not enough to combat this condition. Exercising is essential for regulating metabolism and ensuring correct body composition. Otherwise, the risk of suffering from obesity increases, as well as from many other chronic diseases.
At the same time, it is essential to accompany the diet with drugs, which significantly improve the quality of life by reducing the annoying sensation of constant fatigue. However, medications must be prescribed by a specialist and doses must be reviewed periodically as progress is made.
If not treated properly, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can cause many problems in the medium term. Its early diagnosis is essential, as is adapting one’s lifestyle and changing eating habits.
