Boost Your Thyroid Health With These 5 Superfoods
Constant tiredness, mood swings, sudden weight gain, dry hair and skin, weak memory - these telltale signs get ignored often, assuming that age is catching up. But, it could also mean an inactive thyroid gland.
Located in the neck and shaped like a butterfly, the thyroid gland is an important endocrine gland in the body. The thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland control your metabolic rate, regulate your body temperature, and help your body cells to grow. While there is no specific hypothyroid diet, certain foods contain nutrients, which regulate thyroid gland activity. Nutrients such as iodine, selenium, iron, and zinc support normal thyroid functioning. Here are 5 nutrient-rich superfoods to ensure your thyroid gland remains on the go:
1. Mushroom
The humble mushroom is a storehouse of nutrition. Rich in selenium and iodine, regular intake of mushrooms is good for your thyroid. It helps in the production of thyroid hormone and enhances immunity. You can opt for varieties such as the button, oyster, shitake, or Portobello mushrooms. Mushrooms are rich in anti-oxidants which have anti-aging properties. Also, being low on calories, they are good for your waistline.
2. Fish
Rich in omega-3 fats and minerals such as selenium and iodine, regular consumption of fish is recommended for thyroid patients. Omega-3 fats help reduce inflammation and improve immunity. Fish is also a good source of lean protein that builds up muscle mass. Tuna, sardines, trout, and cod are varieties of fish rich in iodine and selenium. Whether fresh or canned, fish is sure to boost your thyroid health.
3. Brazil nuts
Another superfood for your thyroid gland, Brazil nuts are a rich source of selenium. Studies have shown improvement in thyroid level of hypothyroid patients when they consumed 2-3 Brazil nuts daily. Eat them raw, whipped into a smoothie, or as a topping on your favorite dessert, Brazil nuts are definitely a must-have in your diet.
4. Kelp
A type of seaweed, kelp is a concentrated source of iodine. Iodine is a prerequisite for thyroid hormone production. Constipation is a common problem in people with hypothyroidism. Kelp is loaded with fiber which stimulates the bowel movement. Remember not to go overboard as too much iodine can aggravate thyroid disease. In case you want to opt for kelp supplements, be sure to talk to your doctor first.
5. Eggs
Not only are these few of the best sources of good quality protein, eggs are also good for your thyroid. Rich in nearly all the thyroid friendly nutrients - iodine, selenium, omega-3 fats, and iron - eggs are undeniably a great addition to your diet. The yolk of the egg is where most of these nutrients are present. The white of the egg is mostly protein. A person with normal blood cholesterol level can safely have 2- 3 eggs a day.
For any queries related to healthy food, you can contact a Dietician at www.healthcaremagic.com
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