Nutrition for Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where a person has a low level of thyroid hormone. This can make a person feel extremely tired and week. It causes a rise in cholesterol levels and can ultimately lead to other conditions like heart attack, stroke and diabetes. However, there is hope. Taking medication regularly, and living a healthy life with proper nutrition and exercise, can reduce the chances of further complications due to hypothyroidism.

Vitamins

Vitamin D and selenium are both recommended for use in hypothyroid patients. Many people who suffer from hypothyroidism also suffer from a vitamin D deficiency. Adding vitamin D to the diet through supplementation can help to correct this problem. Testing for vitamin D deficiency can be done by a physician. Vitamin D supplements are generally prescribed for use for at least six months.

Selenium supplementation is beneficial for the patient with an underactive thyroid gland. Selenium is a required element for the production of thyroid hormone as well as for converting thyroxin, or T4, to triiodothyronine, or T3.

Supplements

Several supplements have been shown to boost metabolism in hypothyroid patients. Chromium, cinnamon and magnesium are all good supplements to use.

Coconut Oil

The hypothyroid patient should avoid the use of refined vegetable oils, because they can cause weight gain. According to Dr. Ray Peat, "unsaturated oils block thyroid hormone secretion, its movement in circulation, and the response of tissues to the hormone." Virgin coconut oil is the best choice of oil for a hypothyroid patient because it has no negative effect on thyroid function. In fact, eating coconut oil has been shown to increase thyroid function and aid in weight loss.

Diet

A person who suffers from hypothyroidism should eat very much like a diabetic. Following the diabetic diet or the Glycemic Index diet are good choices for the hypothyroid patient. Eating this way can help to stabilize blood glucose levels and boost metabolism. It will also lower cortisol levels. High cortisol levels are responsible for abdominal weight gain, muscle breakdown and impairing the conversion of T4 into T3.

Foods to Avoid

People who suffer from hypothyroidism should avoid certain foods and supplements. Fluoride and chlorine can both cause the blockage of iodine receptors in the thyroid gland. Tea, toothpaste and tap water may all contain these ingredients.

Some people with hypothyroidism may develop allergies to gluten. If a patient notices a sensitivity to wheat or products containing wheat, he should consult a physician for further testing.

Foods that can block the absorption of iodine in the thyroid can also have negative side effects on hypothyroid patients. Cabbage, peanuts, pine nuts, Soya products, cassava, peaches, pears, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, spinach, mustard greens and turnips should all be avoided.

Sugar should not be eaten by thyroid patients. Eating sugar can cause dramatic shifts between high and low blood sugar levels. This causes stress, which produces extra cortisol in the body, which can cause weight gain.