Generally, there's no hypothyroidism diet. Scientifically there's no evidence that eating or avoiding certain foods will improve thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism. However, adequate dietary iodine is essential for normal thyroid function. Thyroid disease due iodine deficiency has been nearly been eliminated by making iodine additives in salt and food mandatory by the government. Moreover eating a balanced diet makes taking supplemental iodine unnecessary. However there are several nutrients that are important for optimal thyroid health.
Protein
Research shows that higher protein diets help increase the rate of your metabolism. You get protein from milk, paneer, eggs, legumes, pulses, meat & chicken. Iodine Iodine is an essential mineral that’s needed to make thyroid hormones. Consider adding iodized table salt to your meals or eating more iodine-rich foods like seaweed, fish, dairy, and eggs.
Selenium
Selenium has antioxidant benefits & it protect thyroid gland from damage from free radicals. Foods high in selenium include Brazil nuts, tuna, oysters, pork, beef,chicken, tofu, whole wheat pasta, shrimp, and mushrooms.
Zinc
Zinc may help the body regulate TSH, the hormone that tells the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormone. Zinc-rich foods include meat, chicken, shellfish,Dairy, Nuts, Legumes like chickpeas, lentils and beans, Eggs & whole grains
Which nutrients are harmful?
Goitrogens are compounds that may interfere with the normal function of the thyroid gland. Surprisingly, many common foods contain goitrogens, including:
- Soy foods: tofu, soy milk etc.
- Certain vegetables: cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, etc.
- Fruits and starchy plants: sweet potatoes, peaches, strawberries, etc.
- Nuts and seeds: millet, peanuts, etc.
In theory, people with hypothyroidism should avoid goitrogens. However, this only seems to be an issue for people who have an iodine deficiency or eat large amounts of goitrogens. Also, cooking foods with goitrogens may inactivate these compounds.