6 Types of Foods That Will Keep Your Thyroid Healthy and Prevent Weight Gain

The thyroid is a small gland at the base of the neck and has an important job in your body. It regulates the other hormones, boost your energy and metabolism, balance your mood and heart rate. But when this gland is out of function, can cause weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, lethargic thinking, fatigue, depression, increased sensitivity of cold, etc.

If you notice some of the symptoms above, it is very important to visit your doctor as soon as possible.

To keep your thyroid gland health and always in function, include these 6 types of foods in your daily diet.

1. FOODS RICH IN PECTINS: Apples, Pears, Citrus fruits

Fruit like apple, plum and citrus is rich in pectins, a gelatinous fiber that helps your body to get rid of heavy metals, especially mercury, which has been associated with lower levels of thyroid hormone.

2. FOODS RICH IN ZINC: Pumpkin & sunflower seeds, Crab, Lobster, Nuts, Legumes

All these foods are great sources of zinc, which is an essential mineral to your thyroid health and is required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Actually, the zinc deficiencies can lead to underactive thyroid – hypothyroidism.

3. FOODS RICH IN SELENIUM: Brazil nuts, Beef, Turkey, Chicken meat, Sardines, Tuna

The thyroid gland contains selenium and some researchers suggest that lack of selenium can cause thyroid disorders. That’s why it is important to include Brazil nuts, beef, turkey, chicken and tuna in your diet, they are all good sources of selenium.

4. FOODS RICH IN VITAMIN D: Yogurt, Milk, Orange juice

The deficiency of Vitamin D is associated with increased risk of Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that’s the most common cause of underactive thyroid. Despite yogurt, milk and orange juice, which are great source of vitamin D, other good sources of this vitamin include dairy-free milks, sardines, and sunshine.

5. FOODS RICH IN FIBER: Beans, Legumes, Chickpeas

All above mentioned foods are great sources of fiber, which can help prevent or reduce constipation, the most common complaint among people with thyroid disorders.

6. FOODS RICH IN IODINE: Seaweed

One of the best sources of natural iodine is seaweed. This mineral is essential for proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Even mild iodine deficiencies can lead to thyroid problems. That’s why the iodine intake is crucial for your gland health.