The thyroid gland doesn’t get the attention it should, readers. This tiny gland in your neck releases the hormones your body needs to regulate muscle, heart and digestive functions, bone maintenance and even brain development. In short, if your thyroid is not doing its job properly, it can lead to a whole host of problems related to a lack or overabundance of hormones.
If you think you have a thyroid problem, it’s wise to go to your doctor and ask for testing. In the meantime, there are other things you can do to help get it back on track.
Try the Mediterranean diet
A well-balanced diet is vital for a healthy thyroid. A lot of your immune system is found in your digestive system, and when this becomes inflamed, it can lead to an immune response that may play a role in thyroid disease development, according to research.
To help limit inflammation, you can try the Mediterranean diet. Aim for four to five veggie servings and three to four fruit servings daily, along with lean proteins and fatty fish.
Avoid certain foods
Processed foods that are full of sugars, dyes, preservatives or fat are simply not good for inflammation. You should keep in mind that nutrient-packed cruciferous veggies like broccoli can also mess with your thyroid if eaten in large quantities raw. This is because in the raw state, these veggies have a high level of goitrogens, which may interfere with your body’s synthesis of thyroid hormones. The good news is that you can inactivate these chemicals by simply cooking or lightly steaming the veggies before eating.
Consider trying supplements
There is a connection between iodine and thyroid health because iodine is needed for the synthesis of the thyroid hormone. However, most people have enough iodine in their diets and getting too much can cause problems, so speak to your doctor before taking any iodine supplement.
Vitamin D and selenium have both been linked to better thyroid health, so those may be options for you that you can discuss with your doctor. Generally speaking, you want to consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements to ensure they are safe for you to take given your health history, current medications and current conditions.
Take the steps above to help get your thyroid and your hormones back on track today.
