Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones. One of the function of thyroid hormones is the regulation of your body’s metabolism. Because of this, people who have hypothyroidism has a decreased metabolic rate. For this reason, people with this problem typically experience putting on weight since the body can’t process the food effectively. It is therefore important for those who have hypothyroidism to stick to a specialized diet so as to help address the effects of their condition and also manage their weight. Here are a few diet recommendations that can help people who have hypothyroidism do just that.

Iodine is a key component of thyroid hormones and therefore it is advisable for people with hypothyroidism to consume foods that are abundant in it because this could help stimulate the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid glands. Several of the foods that are high in iodine are mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, eggs, trifle, and seaffods like saltwater fish, sushi, and seaweed.. Additionally, it is advisable to use iodized salt when preparing your food rather than rock salt, for additional iodine consumption.

Meals rich in fiber are also advised for individuals that have hypothyroidism. It can help you lower weight, promotes a regular bowel movement, as well as decreases your cholesterol. Fiber successfully addresses the three symptoms of hypothyroidism particularly, weight gain, constipation, and increased serum cholesterol. Examples of foods rich in fiber are creals, oatmeals, most fruits and vegetables, and whole grains.

Selenium-rich food must be also included in the diet of people who have an under active thyroid. This particular mineral is needed in transforming the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4), which is the most abundant in the body, into triiodothyronine (T3), the dynamic operational form. Some of the foods that are high in selenium are tuna, oysters, brazil nuts, turkey, swordfish, herring, and many more. It should be kept in mind however that excessive intake of selenium could cause poisoning therefore it is suggested that you keep track of your consumption of these foods.

On the flip side, some foods must be avoided as they can interfere with the thyroid production. These include cabbage, broccoli, sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips, linseed, peanuts, soybeans, among others.