Low Thyroid Diet

According to the American Thyroid Association, hypothyroidism occurs when too little of the thyroid hormone is produced. Symptoms of this condition include, low energy levels, depression, feeling cold, dry skin, muscle cramping and weight gain. Additionally, many women have a very heavy menstrual cycle. Also, many patients have swelling in the front of the neck. The amount of this hormone that is produced can be affected by diet, like deficiencies in iodine. Here are a few tips for starting a low thyroid diet.

Getting Enough Iodine

According to the American Thyroid Association, iodine is a component required for producing the thyroid hormone. Since the human body doesn't create iodine on its own, you must eat foods (or, take supplements) that are high in this substance. Talk with your doctor about low iodine levels causing your thyroid issues. If this is an issue, you'll need to boost Iodine consumption based on the United States Recommendations, which is 150 mg per day for men and women. A large source of this supplement is iodized salt; with a single teaspoon contain 400 mg of iodine. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need 220-290 mg of Iodine each day, but talk with your doctor before taking any supplement.

Eat Foods Rich in Vitamin A

This includes carrots, green leafy vegetables and yellow vegetables. These foods contain beta-carotene and vitamin A, which is a powerful antioxidant and is helpful for metabolic function. Also, make sure to eat the majority of your foods fresh, and cook very lightly to preserve vitamins.

Eat Foods High in Zinc and Copper

These supplements are essential in the production of the thyroid hormones. Foods that are rich in zinc and copper include: tuna, dried beans, spinach, nuts, legumes and raisins.

Add Radishes into your Diet

Red and black radishes contain the ingredient Raphanin, which is involved in balancing the peptide hormone, which is important to proper function of the thyroid. If you aren't a big fan of radishes, try juicing a few with carrots, celery, apples and oranges -- you'll hardly taste the radish, but enjoy the health benefits.

Foods to Avoid

When controlling your thyroid, make sure to avoid consuming excess amounts of sugar, which affect the adrenal glands. Also, ask your doctor about consuming milk. For some people with a low thyroid issue, the casein in milk may affect the endocrine system. Also, avoid eating foods that are high in fat, and foods that are high in iron, which also affects the adrenal glands.