Foods for Low Thyroid

According to the American Thyroid Association, having a low thyroid means the thyroid gland isn't making enough thyroid hormones for the body to function properly. Low thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can be caused by autoimmune disease, partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland and radiation treatment, among others. Symptoms of low thyroid include fatigue, poor memory, weight gain and a tingling sensation in the hands and feet. There is no cure for low thyroid, but it can be controlled through medication and a strict thyroid-building diet.

Iodine

One of the main causes of low thyroid is iodine depletion. That's why it's important to consume foods that are full of iodine. This includes fish such as cod and haddock, yogurt, cow's milk and sea vegetables such as nori, dulse and kelp. You can also take a kelp supplement to help your low thyroid. But remember, it's best to talk to your doctor before taking any supplement.

Copper

Copper is essential for a thyroid hormone called thyroxine. The hormone preserves the myelin sheaths, which shelter the nerves. Foods containing copper include calf's liver, sesame seeds, tomatoes and leafy vegetables such as kale, turnip greens and mustard greens.

Vitamins A & C

Foods containing vitamins A and C are key for proper thyroid function. Although vitamin A is mainly found in foods that originate from animals, certain fruits and vegetables contain carotenes, which the body converts into vitamin A. These foods include apricots, mangoes, carrots and squash. Vitamin C strengthens the body's immune function and can be found in parsley, broccoli, strawberries, oranges and mustard greens.

Zinc

Zinc is a micromineral that increases the metabolic rate and the hormonal output of the thyroid gland. Foods containing zinc are crimini mushrooms, basil, pumpkin seeds and maple syrup.

Selenium

Selenium allows the thyroid to produce the thyroid hormone and replenishes the immune system. According to World'sHealthiestFoods, certain mushrooms, mainly button, and seafood such as shrimp, snapper, tuna and salmon contain selenium. Selenium can also be found in lamb, turkey and Brazil nuts. Those who take an overabundance of selenium in a supplement form may experience side effects including nausea, vomiting, and hair and fingernail loss.

Protein

Protein performs many bodily functions including producing enzymes and hormones. In fact, thyroid hormones are created from proteins. Foods rich in protein include tuna, mozzarella cheese and kidney beans.