Foods to Support Your Thyroid
Thyroid problems affects millions of people around the world believe it or not! The conditions resulting from thyroid problems can be extremely serious. As a regulator of hormone production and metabolism, the thyroid needs to function properly to maintain optimal health. The good news is, there are nutritional steps you can take to help support your thyroid!!
The thyroid needs very specific nutrients to maintain proper function:
iodine, selenium, iron, and zinc.
The following foods provide quality dietary sources of these necessary elements. They also include complete nutritional content including quality protein, high quantities of necessary vitamins (such as B vitamins needed in hormone production), antioxidants and more!
1. Dulse Seaweed
Sea vegetables are a great source of iodine and dulse seaweed has been found to offer the most consistent
and highest concentrations of iodine. This purple-brown sea vegetable is full of potassium and is an excellent source of protein. (In addition to dulse seaweed, arame, kombu, nori, sea palm and wakame are also quality iodine and nutrient sources.)
2. Fish
Fish is a great source of dietary iodine, plus the amazing benefits of omega-3 fatty acids which have been found to contribute to a healthy heart. Deep sea fish such as cod and haddock contain the highest densities of dietary iodine. (Be sure fish is wild caught, NOT farm raised)
3. Coconut Oil
Coconuts are an excellent food all around, and the oil from coconut has been used as a healing food for a long time. Coconut oil contains essential fatty acids needed for proper metabolic function. These fatty acids are easily assimilated by the body and contribute to thyroid function, thyroid hormone production and regulating the metabolism.
4. Beans
Beans are a good source of zinc and iron. They also provide quality proteins and are an excellent source of B vitamins, vitamin C, and fiber.
5. Liver and Kidney Meat
Although not appropriate for vegans or vegetarians, these organ meats, especially beef liver, provide iron, zinc and selenium as well as high-quality proteins. They also provide a more complete, nutrient-dense source of calcium, potassium, Vitamins A, C and D, and the B vitamins than most fruits and vegetables. Again, if you go this route, select products from organic, vegetarian-fed animals.
6. Almonds
While most nuts are an excellent source of proteins, minerals, vitamins and fiber, almonds provide a potent
source of nutrients needed by the thyroid. Almonds combine quality values of iron, selenium and zinc with essential B vitamins and high protein content.
7. Turkey
For a lean protein source, turkey is an excellent source of selenium. It also contains iron and essential amino acids. Again, opt for organic, vegetarian fed animals.
8. Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
Why choose one when any of the dark leafy veggies will work? Spinach, kale, collard greens, swiss chard, mustard or turnip greens are all a great source of iron, B vitamins (needed for hormone secretion), Vitamins A, C and D, magnesium and their incredible antioxidants. These superfoods not only supply the nutrients the thyroid needs, they also help protect overall health.
Copyright, 2013, Jackie Mart. For further information about this blog, or Optimum Wellness LLC, contact Jackie Mart at 712.790.5883 or Jackie@OptimumWellnessMN.com. As a holistic nutrition and lifestyle coach, I will support you in taking steps to a healthier and happier you. My goal is to help you create an art of balance in your life. You will also learn how important balance between primary foods (relationships, physical activity, sleep, career and spirituality) and secondary foods (organic food and whole food) is.
www.optimumwellnessmn.com
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