Thyroid or thyroid gland is basically one of the largest endocrine glands present in the neck below the thyroid cartilage (which forms the “Adam’s apple). It has a butterfly like shape with two wings attached by a middle part (isthmus). This gland controls most of the body’s organ functions such as usage of energy by the body, making proteins and controlling the body’s sensitivity to other hormones. It is involved in the production of thyroid hormones of which, the most important are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine, also known as tetraiodothyronine (T4) which account for 99% and 1% of thyroid hormones present in the blood respectively. The thyroid gland uses iodine from food sources like seafood, bread and salt to produce thyroid hormones.
We are hearing the word, thyroid most commonly these days. The number of people suffering from thyroid problems is increasing rapidly, especially among women. Before we start a diet plan atfirst, it is important to know and understand thyroid problems.
There are basically two main thyroid disorders:
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is characterized by production of thyroid hormone below the normal level. It often results in weight gain and is the most common form of thyroid disorder.
- Hyperthyroidism: This disorder is characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormone due to an overactive thyroid gland. Symptoms include increased heart rate, depression, weight loss and cognitive slowing. Medications include the use of radioactive iodine and thyroid surgery.
So below here is the appropriate diet chart for Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism respectively:
| HYPOTHYROIDISM (LOW THYROID FUNCTION) | |
| Food items to be eaten | Food items to be avoided |
| Iodine rich foods like iodized salt, seafood etc | Soy products and soybeans |
| Foods rich in antioxidants and vitamin C such as tomatoes, cherries, squash, bell peppers etc | Raw foods like cabbage, broccoli, mustard reens, kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, pears, peaches, strawberries, radishes, spinach, turnip, peanuts, millets etc (should be eaten cooked in small quantities) |
| Skimmed dairy products | Soya milk |
| Foods rich in vitamin B and iron like whole grains, fresh and sea vegetables | Red meat |
| Vitamins or minerals supplements particularly iron after consulting your physician | Whole milk or heavy cream |
| Skinless chicken | Excess butter |
| Beans and nuts( for protein) | |
| Dairy products | |
| Fish, eggs and mushrooms (for omega 3) | |
| Berries (for antioxidants) | |
| HYPERTHYROIDISM ( OVERACTIVE THYROID FUNCTION) | |
| Food items to be eaten | Food items to be avoided |
| Olive oil (for cooking) | Soft drinks |
| Honey (as a sweetener) | Foods containing concentrated sweeteners, sugar, sugarcane, corn syrup and chocolate |
| Apricots | Alcohol and caffeine |
| Vegetables and grains | Pasta and white bread |
| Whole wheat pasta and brown bread | Red meat like mutton and pork |
| Walnuts | antibiotic |
Since, thyroid causes weight gain syndromes, this chart can be a blessing for increasing metabolism and losing weight. Diet chart can be a thrust for increasing energy level as well. Hence, there is a way to stay healthy even if you have thyroid disorder. So, enjoy diet and stay healthy.
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