Nutrition Tips For Hypothyroidism

Author: Mark Velov Time for reading: ~2 minutes Last Updated: January 27, 2026

The trace element iodine is very important for the production of thyroid hormones.

The thyroid gland is the largest endocrine gland in the body, weighing between 20 and 40 g. It is located in front of the trachea, reaching the carotid arteries laterally. Hormones synthesized in her cells are essential for metabolism, nervous system activity, and bone growth . In addition, they have a direct impact on various systems in the body - cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and others.

Decreased gland function is characterized by the appearance of the corresponding symptoms, the most characteristic of which are weight gain, constipation, fatigue, irregular menstruation, water retention, dry and rough skin, easily sensitive hair and nails, slow thinking, increased distraction, as well as pronounced sensitivity to cold.

The appearance of only a few symptoms is possible, which is why it is not always thought that there is a disease of the thyroid gland. This is one of the reasons for untimely diagnosis.

The type of diet is determined by the type of pathology found. It is important to achieve maximum treatment results in parallel with the prescribed therapy together with the appropriate diet.

With hypofunction of the gland there is weight gain due to delayed metabolism. Elevated cholesterol levels are often reported in these patients, so limiting fat intake (particularly those of animal origin) is essential . In addition, it is recommended to reduce the intake of easily digestible carbohydrates (refined sugar, white flour) at the expense of products rich in fiber (wholemeal bread, unpeeled rice and legumes).

The trace element iodine is important for the synthesis of functionally active hormones by thyroid cells. Its deficiency can lead to an increased size of the thyroid gland, which is a compensatory mechanism for the absorption of even the smallest amounts of iodine that enter the body. Iodine-rich foods include seafood, sea fish (not freshwater), walnuts, and some algae.

Some foods (cabbage, broccoli, turnips, spinach, cauliflower) block the absorption of iodine from food , which can worsen the symptoms of the disease. It is reasonable to limit their consumption in patients with hypofunction. In turn, prolonged heat treatment of these vegetables leads to the breakdown of substances that affect the absorption of iodine.

Selenium is another element that is also involved in converting inactive forms of hormones into active ones. Some nuts are rich in selenium - Brazil nuts, sunflowers and garlic. It is important that the daily needs of selenium and iodine do not exceed the optimal norm, as overdose can lead to additional complications instead of having a healing effect.

If the pathology of the gland is due to autoimmune processes, the exclusion of gluten-containing foods from the menu is shown. The reason is the similarity of gluten with some of the protein structures in the gland. Wheat, barley, rye and others are rich in gluten. The intake of antioxidants has a protective effect on autoimmune processes in the body. Vitamins A, E and C have a powerful antioxidant effect .

Some of the substances contained in tobacco (nitrates, sulfur compounds) slow down the absorption of iodine in the body. Some hormonal changes in the body are also related. Defined as a 'stress hormone', cortisol has a depressant effect on thyroid function. This is the reason to avoid sudden changes in weight, as they are stressful for the body.

The thyroid gland can be defined as a kind of "conductor for the body" due to the many organs and systems it affects. The complex of proper drug therapy and a rational diet is the basis for correcting impaired glandular function. 3885

Nutrition Tips For Hypothyroidism

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