Which Foods Help The Thyroid Gland And Which Ones Harm It?

In order to be able to produce hormones and function properly, the thyroid gland needs iodine, but it is not the only trace element it needs. On the other hand, our food also contains compounds that damage the metabolic processes associated with the formation of thyroid hormones and the absorption of iodine. This is unlikely to harm a healthy body with a balanced diet, but with a thyroid problem and already existing iodine deficiency, nutrition is not unimportant.

Nutrition also has an effect on the absorption of drugs in diseases of the thyroid gland. It is extremely important for hypothyroidism and prescribed hormone replacement therapy to take the pill in the morning on an empty stomach at least half an hour before meals.

The main amountiodine , which we introduce into our body, is from iodized table salt. However, ready-to-eat foods, despite their sodium content, do not include this enrichment. Iodine can also be obtained with the consumption of fish and seafood.

Iodine intake should also be approached with some caution. Its excessive intake could contribute to increased thyroid function, which in turn is dangerous in pre-existing hyperthyroidism. Combined vitamin complexes, kelp, and excessive consumption of iodine-containing foods are also not recommended for people with autoimmune thyroid disease , such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Kelp, specifically a dietary supplement based on brown seaweed, could be a good option for patients with hypothyroidism, if the doctor agrees with its benefit.

In addition to iodine, the thyroid gland needs other trace elements. such as magnesium and selenium. Magnesium in general has a huge role in the implementation of many metabolic processes in the body. It is needed by the thyroid gland to perform its functions. A sign of its deficiency is the constant feeling of fatigue. The presence of cramps and changes in heart rhythm are also an indication of its absence in the menu. A good source of magnesium are green leafy vegetables such as spinach, lettuce and others, as well as nuts.

Nuts are good for the thyroid gland and because of the selenium content . The microelement participates in the metabolic processes of thyroid hormones, is important for the reproductive ability of the body, the correct replication of DNA and protects against damage from free radicals and infections. In principle, the amount needed for the body can be obtained with only a few Brazil nuts a day. The microelement as a food supplement is especially recommended in autoimmune diseases of the thyroid gland.

In case of reduced thyroid function, the consumption of kale is inappropriate. This cabbage contains substances that interfere with the absorption of iodine by the thyroid gland. This category of products includes all types of cabbage, including, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli.

The thyroid gland will be inhibited from producing hormones if it is loaded with estrogens and phytonutrients that resemble female sex hormones in iodine deficiency. Such phytoestrogens are found in soy and soy products.

Lipoic acid also suppresses the gland and the effect of hormone replacement therapy in its hypofunction. Rich in this fatty acid are animal products - trifles.

Gluten can also be dangerous for people with thyroid problems, but only if they also suffer from celiac disease.. Gluten contains wheat, barley and rye. Damage to the small intestine in gluten intolerance increases the risk of developing Hashimoto's thyroiditis and basal disease. In celiac disease, it is mandatory to follow a diet that excludes gluten to prevent thyroid disease.

Antacids (stomach acid remedies) may also harm the effects of prescription medications for thyroid problems.