Foods for Low Thyroid Levels - Low Thyroid Diet

Thyroid hormone which is produced by hypothalamus, pituitary glands and mainly thyroid gland which is situated just below the larynx. Thyroid gland is the key function of the endocrine system. The basic function of the thyroid gland is to change iodine from the food into the thyroid hormones, that are essential in regulating the metabolism of the body. Thyroid, secreted in more than required amount as well as lesser than its demanded creates problems. Low thyroid, also referred as hypothyroidism is a disease found in living beings due to low production of the thyroid hormones. Low thyroid levels in infants is referred as 'Cretinism'.

Symptoms of Low Thyroid Levels
Low thyroid levels are caused when the thyroid glands produce less thyroid than the required amount, this is also referred as 'under-active' thyroid glands. Both men and women suffer from low thyroid levels. There are many symptoms of this silent disease, hypothyroidism, some of them include:

• Weakness and fatigue
• Immune system problems
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Poor memory or dementia
• Nervousness
• Cold hands and feet
• Depression
• Obesity
• heavy menstrual periods in women

These and many more are the initial symptoms of low thyroid levels that people often tend to ignore. These symptoms might sound very casual at start but if not evaluated early, they can prove harmful later on. Hypothyroidism is primarily caused by incorrect eating habits. So, if one has some of the above symptoms then without further delay, consulting the physician and opting proper healthy diet plan gets very essential.

Low Thyroid Diet
People suffering from the problem of low thyroid must follow a strict thyroid enhancing food pattern. Under active thyroid diet mainly bank upon the hormonal supplements. It gets very essential to improve the functions of thyroid glands. Foods for low thyroid includes the following:

Protein and Fatty Acids
Food rich in protein proves very useful when it comes to control weight and thyroid levels. The main reason behind this is that most of the glands are made of protein, so food that is rich in protein must be constitute part of the daily diet. The fatty acids help the body to maintain its hormonal system, so, vegetables, especially green and leafy vegetables, food rich in fatty acids such as almonds, walnuts, whole grains, lean meat, milk and egg whites must be a part of the daily diet.

Iodine Rich Foods
More than 2/3 of the body iodine is secreted in the thyroid gland. Hence iodine deficiency is the most basic reason behind 'under active thyroid glands'. Consumption of iodine must be appropriate to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Food products like iodized salt, sea salt, most fresh fishes mainly cod fish and haddock fish, fish oil, sea weeds like see kelp, eggs, cheddar cheese etc. are rich in iodine percentage.

Selenium Rich Foods
Selenium is a great antioxidant with high amount of essential anti-aging and cancer enzymes. Selenium also helps to rebuild the immune system. Selenium is present in various natural forms such as cereals like rice, corn and wheat, Brazil nuts and walnuts, onions, garlic, soybeans, animal products like cheese, eggs, chicken and beef and also in some fishes like tuna. Selenium is also present in other products like cod fish, turkey and oat. There are chances of side effects of selenium, if it exceeds 400mg in the body.

Fibers and Vitamins
Food products that contain vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6 and vitamin C, are very essential to maintain good hormonal levels. These vitamins could be taken in the form of natural thyroid supplements. Certain natural food products like carrots, spinach, egg yolks, oranges, cantaloupe, figs, banana, broccoli, bok choy etc. are rich sources of vitamins and fibers, and must be a part of daily diet as per their availability.

Food to Avoid During Low Thyroid Levels
It is very essential to keep in mind about the food you should not eat when suffering from hypothyroidism. Patients suffering from low thyroid levels must avoid food products that can cause thyroid problems. So one must avoid excessive use of following food products:

• Excessive amount of sugar intake can actually destroy the thyroid as well as adrenal glands. So, sugar intake must be minimal.
• Sometimes the casein present in milk products can harm the endocrine system.
• Junk food, fast food, alcohol and vegetables like cauliflower and mustard that contain high amount of iron must be avoided.

What has been listed above is arguably the best diet plan for people with under active thyroid glands. Following a healthy diet, proper exercise, timely diagnosis, medication and mental peace are the best ways to avoid the troubles of low thyroid levels.