Food for Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a disease of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. The thyroid produces an array of hormones that regulate metabolism and protein synthesis. When production of these hormones is low, the condition called hypothyroidism, symptoms ranging from fatigue to hair loss can result. Using food for hypothyroidism treatment can help stimulate thyroid hormone production by increasing your intake of important nutrients. There are also important foods that interfere with thyroid hormone production that should be avoided.

Protein

The amino acid necessary for production of thyroid hormones is L-Tyrosine. Though the body usually produces L-Tyrosine, many protein-rich foods contain this amino acid. Eating chicken, turkey, fish, almonds, avocados, bananas, dairy products, seeds and legumes will increase your body's available supply and facilitate normal thyroid function.

Iodine

Another necessary ingredient in thyroid hormone production is iodine, which must be taken through the diet. Iodized table salt contains enough iodine to prevent goiter, another condition of the thyroid, but generally does not contain enough to prevent or reverse hypothyroidism. Seafood is usually the best source of iodine in the diet. Iodized salt can be used to increase total iodine intake to between 300 and 400 mcg per day, but daily intake should not 600 mcg per day.

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that functions to produce some of the varieties of thyroid hormone. Between 100 to 200 mcg per day are prescribed for hypothyroidism. Many protein-rich foods are also good sources of selenium, especially Brazil nuts, turkey, oats, cod, tuna, eggs and rice. Selenium can be toxic at doses above 400 mcg, so moderation is necessary when increasing selenium intake or using supplements.

Other Nutrients

Zinc, vitamins B2, B3, B6, B12, and the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E are also involved in improving thyroid function. To increase your intake of these foods, it is recommended to eat whole grain bread products (zinc and B vitamins), cold-pressed olive oil (for vitamin E), dairy products, meat and shellfish (B12). Eating these foods in variety provides many essential nutrients that nourish the thyroid and promote general health.

Foods to Avoid

Foods that interfere with thyroid hormone production are goitrogens. These foods should ideally be avoided, but if they are consumed they should be cooked to deactivate their goitrogenic effect. Common goitrogens include cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, soy, spinach, peanuts, peaches and pine nuts. It's also recommended to avoid stimulants including caffeine and nicotine, and alcohol.