In fact, even a mild issue with your thyroid can impair your cognitive ability making it difficult for you to perform daily tasks, remember certain facts or think clearly. Fortunately, most of the thyroid problems can be prevented by eating healthy and adding physical exercise on a daily basis. Before changing your diet or beginning any physical exercise programme, you should consult your physician and have them test your thyroid for both function and effectiveness.
Here are some nutrition tips to follow for a healthy thyroid:
Iodine: Iodine is a trace mineral that’s often associated with thyroid actions. A slight deficiency in iodine intake is enough to cause problems with the thyroid. Seaweed, such as wakame, kombu and kelp are known for their high iodine levels and can be added into soup or stir-fried vegetable dishes.
Selenium: Compared to any organ, the thyroid contains the highest amount of selenium. People with selenium deficiency are vulnerable to thyroid disorders. Brazil nuts are healthy sources of selenium as are sardines, tuna, chicken, turkey and beef.
Pectins: Pectins are found in pears, apples, plums and citrusy fruits. They are gelatinous fibres that can remove toxins and heavy metals from inner organs. The skin of apples, plums and pears contain a high level of pectins and can be eaten fresh or consumed as juices.
Zinc: Oysters, pumpkin seeds, lobster, crab, nuts, legumes and sunflower seeds are primary sources of zinc. Deficiency of this mineral may trigger hypothyroidism. A dysfunctional thyroid can reduce zinc absorption, which further intensifies the problem. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds can be grilled and consumed as a snack.
Vitamin D:Vitamin D is a hormone-like substance, which is important for the regulation of the immune system. Vitamin D deficiency can be prevented by consuming dairy products, sardines and orange juices. Lack of vitamin D may cause an auto-immune disease, known as Hashimoto’s disease.
Dietary fibre: Dietary fibre can be obtained from beans and legumes. This substance contributes to thyroid disorders. Also, chickpeas are known for high level of zinc, which is essential for the functions of the thyroid. Boiled chickpeas can be added in soups and salads. It is also a good idea to consume more vegetables and fruits.
If your doctor has advised you that your thyroid isn’t as efficient as it should be, try eating healthy foods and incorporating some of the ingredients above into your diet today.
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