A proper thyroid diet helps to overcome unintended weight gain from hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid, or weight loss from hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid.
A healthy thyroid diet also protects against associated illnesses from thyroid disorders, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer,
according to dietitian Cheryl Harris.
These seven components of a thyroid diet that contribute to a healthy thyroid:
Doctor: Your Tiny Thyroid Linked to Heart, Obesity, Diabetes, Arthritis and 59 Diseases! More Info Here
1. Iodine is essential for thyroid function. It often comes from iodized salt in the American diet, but iodine intake has decreased over the past few decades, Harris notes. Many people in the U.S. and Canada get salt intake from processed foods that might not contain iodine.
Iodine can be found in toxin-free sea vegetables or sea weeds. Raw milk and eggs also contain iodine.
Patients may take iodine supplements to avoid deficiencies. However, Harris points out that deficiencies and excess amounts of iodine can cause symptom flare-ups, so discussing a meal plan and supplementation with a doctor is advised.
2. Vitamin D helps maintain strong bones. Hyperthyroidism may cause bone loss. Hashimoto’s disease, which can lead to hypothyroidism, has been linked to vitamin D deficiency,
reports the Mayo Clinic.
Milk and other dairy products, fatty fish and mushrooms are among foods containing vitamin D.
3. Selenium helps with thyroid function, and high concentrations of the mineral are found in the thyroid gland. Brazil nuts, tuna, lobster and crab contain rich amounts of selenium. As with iodine, deficiencies and excesses of selenium may cause problems, so patients are advised to have their selenium levels tested to include adequate amounts in their diet, Harris says.
Urgent: Dr. Brownstein Reveals Important Thyroid Information You Need to Know
4. A heart-healthy meal plan for thyroid disorders includes vegetables, fruits, beans, lean meats, high-fiber foods and fish with omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and mackerel, avoiding processed foods.
5. Vitamin B12 deficiencies may stem from thyroid disease.
The vitamin can be found in fortified cereals, organ meats such as liver, dairy products, salmon, sardines and mollusks.
6. The Mayo Clinic advises hypothyroid patients to eat certain foods several hours before or after taking thyroid medication. These may include walnuts, cottonseed meal and soybean flour.
Also, hyperthyroid patients should discuss meal plans with a doctor or dietitian to get enough nutrition while avoiding extra calories that cause weight gain.
7. Exercise is important with a healthy thyroid diet. Physical activity can help with weight gain, fatigue and depression for hypothyroid patients. It relieves anxiety and sleep disorders for those with hyperthyroidism.
Special: Real Truth About Iodized Salt. The Food Industry Doesn't Want You to Know This!
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.