Hypothyroidism is a disorder where the body doesn’t make adequate thyroid hormones. The main function of the thyroid gland is to maintain normal growth and development, cell repair, metabolism and several other vital bodily processes.  People with hypothyroidism may experience tiredness, hair loss, weight gain, feeling cold and exhausted if the levels of hormones drop down. This condition affects about 1-2 % of people across the globe, while women are at ten times higher risk than men.

The thyroid hormone supports to speed up metabolic activity. The faster metabolism of a person, the more calories are burned at rest. A slow metabolism also ups the risk of various health problems that may make you tired, elevate blood cholesterol levels and make it difficult to lose weight. Studies show that moderate to high-intensity cardio and aerobic workouts may help boost thyroid hormone levels, speed up metabolism, and also shed excess weight.

It is important for people with hypothyroidism to have a balanced diet with the right combination of nutrients, lead a disciplined lifestyle along with proper medications to restore thyroid functions and mitigate the symptoms.

Also Read: Thyroid Function Tests: Why It Is Done and What To Expect

Nutrients Important For Thyroid Function

Iodine is a vital mineral needed for synthesizing thyroid hormones. People with iodine deficiency may be at risk of hypothyroidism.

Adding iodized table salt to the meals and taking iodine-rich foods like fish, dairy and eggs may help.

Selenium works to activate the thyroid hormones, so the body can use them efficiently. It functions as an antioxidant that protects the thyroid gland from free radical damage.

Including food sources rich in selenium like nuts, legumes, eggs, and fish may be beneficial.

Zinc is an essential mineral that helps the body activate thyroid hormones.

Adding legumes, lean meat and fish may help to up the zinc levels.

Nutrients That Hinder Thyroid Function

Goitrogens are compounds that interfere with the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Some of the common foods that contain goitrogens include:

Soy-based food products – tofu, tempeh, soy chunks, etc.

Vegetables - cabbage, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, spinach, etc.

Fruits and starchy plants – sweet potatoes, tapioca, peaches, strawberries, etc.

All millets

Nuts-peanuts and pine nuts

Coffee and green tea –these drinks may irritate the thyroid gland

However, people with hypothyroidism and iodine deficiency should not eat large amounts of goitrogens.

Generally, cooking these foods may inactivate goitrogenic compounds, thus people with hypothyroidism without iodine deficiency can have these foods in moderate amounts.    

Also Read: Diagnosed With Thyroid? Super Easy Ways To Manage The Disorder

Foods To Include

Some of the food sources that are valuable for people with hypothyroidism include:

Eggs are the best sources packed with protein and vital minerals iodine and selenium.

Lean meat, fish, and all kinds of seafood are good sources of protein.

All vegetables are packed with fibre and essential nutrients.

Cruciferous ones can be taken in moderate amounts, especially cooked .

All kinds of fruits are the best source of vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Whole grains like rice, quinoa, and buckwheat.

Seeds-chia seeds and flax seeds.

All dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt.

People with hypothyroidism should focus on eating a diet packed with vegetables, fruits, and lean meats, which are low in calories and filling that may help avert weight gain.

Foods To Avoid

Foods that contain goitrogens should be consumed in moderate amounts and ideally cooked well. However, they should avoid having highly processed foods that contain a lot of calories, fat, and sugar, which can make them gain weight easily.

Some of the foods that should be avoided includes:

Millet -all varieties

Highly processed foods -cakes, cookies, pastries, and junk foods

Simple Ways For Maintaining A Healthy Weight

People with thyroid disorder gain weight easily due to a slow metabolism. Here are some effective tips to help them maintain a healthy weight.

Get Sound Sleep: It is vital to get good quality sleep for at least 7-8 hours every night. Lack of sleep is linked to fat gain, particularly around the belly region.

Practice Mindful Eating Habits: Mindful eating involves focussing attention on what you’re eating, why you’re eating, and how fast you finish your food can support you improve a good relationship with food. While studies have also revealed that it can help you shed surplus weight.

Yoga/Meditation: Yoga and meditation are proven therapies that can help combat stress and improve your quality of life. Furthermore, research also discloses that these therapies may help you maintain weight.

Prefer Low Carb Diet: It is believed that eating low to moderate amounts of carb is very effective for sustaining weight. However, never go for the keto diet, as eating very little carbs may lower thyroid hormone levels.