8 Essential Tips for Balancing Your Thyroid Gland

One of the most important glands in the human body is the thyroid gland. This gland, although small in size compared to other organs, is 'larger than life' and responsible for important and vital functions in our body, including metabolism, which ensures harmonious operation among all body organs.

It is very important to add that the tips in this article do not substitute for thorough examination and medical consultation if you suffer from underactive or overactive thyroid. This phenomenon, of imbalance and thyroid dysfunction, is relatively common, affecting about 15% of women and 3% of men. Usually, the treatment involves medication, but alongside this procedure, it is essential to adjust your diet accordingly. Here are some dietary tips that will help balance your thyroid function, straight from our 'kitchen':

Excessive consumption of goitrogenic foods

Goitro-what? Don't panic – we'll explain right away. Goitrogenic foods contain various compounds that cause the creation of thyroxine hormone, responsible for the swelling of the thyroid. In other words, those suffering from underactive thyroid should be careful and consume fewer goitrogenic foods, which include horseradish, cabbage, radish, broccoli, turnip, and more – in their natural and raw form.

If you still crave one of these foods, it's better to cook or steam them, as this method eradicates the enzymes responsible for the swelling action. On the other hand, those suffering from overactive thyroid are advised to increase their consumption of goitrogenic foods.

Limit soy products

The goitrogenic substances in soy, especially processed soy such as shakes, soy milk, soy snacks, powders, and supplements, inhibit the absorption of thyroid hormones and thus are problematic for those with underactive thyroid. It's recommended to reduce their intake.

The relationship between gluten and the thyroid

Research has found a link between celiac disease (gluten sensitivity) and thyroid dysfunction. Moreover, people who had thyroid issues and adopted a gluten-free diet were surprised to find that their thyroid balance was restored and the gland functioned well and efficiently. This might be why many professionals recommend this diet for those suffering from thyroid dysfunction, even if they don't have a special sensitivity to gluten.

Drink plenty of water

You've surely heard it countless times – but how often have you actually applied it? Know that among the many important roles of water, they also help here. Drinking water throughout the day ensures a significant improvement in balancing your metabolism and the proper function of your thyroid gland.

Prefer large meals over small ones

For those suffering from underactive/overactive thyroid, it is recommended to wait as long as possible between meals and not eat small meals at short intervals. The secret to success here is that the large gaps between meals balance the level of leptin hormone, responsible for regulating our appetite.

Say "yes" to dietary fiber

Consuming foods rich in dietary fiber such as avocado, carrots, mushrooms, potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, eggplant, peppers, peas, apples, bananas, kiwi, oranges, plums, pears, berries, dried fruits, various nuts, etc. – significantly aids in healing diseases related to impaired thyroid function, as well as helps in weight loss and treating constipation, which are also related to thyroid disorders.

The importance of iodine for thyroid balance

Iodine is crucial in treating thyroid issues since it is used to produce thyroid hormones. To ensure proper activity, our body must receive the iodine it needs, supplied by iodine-rich foods such as salt, seaweed, and fish, integrating them into our daily diet ensures immediate results in the production of these hormones.

Last but not least: coconut oil

In the pharmaceutical industry, coconut oil has been known for years as effective in treating various diseases, including those directly related to the thyroid. Therefore, it is recommended to use it, consulting with a doctor of course, in cases of underactive/overactive thyroid.