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Hypothyroidism And Weight Gain

If your thyroid gland is making you fat, sad and tired, incorporate some of the below foods into your diet. You may also lose weight and get your metabolism in control:

Apples: Apple can help detoxify your body, which keeps your thyroid working smoothly. Because having metals (like mercury) in your body can keep your thyroid from being able to use the iodine it needs, eat enough fresh fruits like apples to flush out the bad stuff.

Oatmeal: People with hypothyroidism typically have a gluten intolerance. Oatmeal with fuel your body, give you fibre, help lower your cholesterol, enhance your immune system and help stabilize your blood sugar. They are full of nutrients, including protein, fibre, slow-burning carbs, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It will also help you in weight loss.

Brazil nuts: The thyroid has the highest selenium content of any organ, and studies suggest that selenium deficiencies may be a primary cause of thyroid disorders. Brazil nuts are an especially rich food source of selenium; other sources include tuna, sardines, beef, turkey and chicken. Try this: Combine brazil nuts, olive oil, garlic and a handful of arugula and basil in a food processor and process into a savory pesto.  Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, and hazelnuts are all particularly high in selenium helps the thyroid function properly.

Chickpeas: A super food high in fibre, which can help prevent or reduce constipation – a common complaint in people with thyroid disorders. The bonus is that chickpeas are also high in zinc, critical for thyroid function. You may try making a delicious hummus with chickpeas, tahini (sesame seeds), lemon juice in a food processor or blender. Gradually add water until the hummus reaches a smooth creamy consistency. Serve it with a little olive oil and sprinkle with paprika.

Pumpkin seeds: Zinc is critical for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, and deficiencies can lead to hypothyroidism. (Additionally, thyroid hormones are essential for zinc absorption, so hypothyroidism can lead to zinc deficiency.) Brownie points – Pumpkin seeds are also rich source of zinc; other good sources include oysters, crab, lobster, legumes, nuts and sunflower seeds. Try this: simple and healthy pumpkin seed pesto recipe is delicious used as you would any pesto recipe; to top a piece of fish, tossed into hot pasta, or stirred into a soup. Pumpkin seeds are one of nature’s most nutritious foods and this delicious pesto recipe is a great way to eat them!

Low-fat Yogurt is rich in vitamin D: An important substance involved in immune system regulation that becomes a hormone once it’s consumed and metabolized by the body. Vitamin D deficiencies are associated with increased risk of Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune disorder that’s the most common cause of hypothyroidism. Other good sources of D include salmon, egg yolks, pork, sardines and sunshine. Try this: Make a lassi with some rose water in summer or buttermilk with salt, ginger and some roasted jeera powder.

Sardines: Sardines are high in selenium to support thyroid function. Additionally, sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower inflammation and enhance immunity, lowering the risk of Hashimoto’s disease. Try this: Simmer boneless, skinless sardines in tomato sauce with minced rosemary leaves and crushed red pepper flakes.

Eating well for thyroid disease is on the simpler side. There aren’t many set guidelines to follow. In fact, there is no specific “thyroid diet.” The most important “rule” is one that all diets even non-condition specific ones have in common: focus on balanced, calorie-controlled meals full of whole foods, including fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins.

Since your thyroid can affect your weight, it helps to eat a calorie-controlled diet and exercise to stay on top of your health.

When it comes to iodine, know that not everyone with thyroid disease needs to limit their intake. In some cases, like if you’re receiving radioactive iodine therapy, you will be instructed to decrease iodine-rich foods in your diet. Or, if your overall diet is consistently high in iodine-rich foods, you may want to be mindful of your intake to avoid the effects of too much iodine. It’s a good idea to limit your intake of Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, and b ok choy, because research suggests digesting these vegetables may block the thyroid’s ability to utilize iodine, which is essential for normal thyroid function

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