If you are suffering from thyroid problem, it is possible to treat it using a natural thyroid diet. This thyroid diet will help you to eat those foods which are beneficial for you when you're suffering from thyroid and will help you to avoid those foods which are not good for you.

Important nutrients

For optimal thyroid health, there are several nutrients which are very crucial.

Iodine

Iodine is a crucial and essential mineral which is important in the production process of thyroid hormones. If you are suffering from iodine deficiency, you may be at risk of hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency is very common but it can be rectified by adding iodized salt to your food. Seaweed, fish, dairy and eggs can also help you to add more iodine to your body.

Selenium

Selenium is crucial because it helps your body to activate thyroid hormones which can then be used by your body. It is an essential mineral and it also has antioxidant benefits. It can protect your thyroid gland from damage by molecules known as free radicals. You can get more selenium by adding selenium rich foods to your diet. Consume more Brazil nuts, tuna, sardines, eggs and legumes to get more selenium in your body

Zinc

Zinc can help your body to activate thyroid hormones. It can help your body to regulate TSH, which is the hormone that triggers the release of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. Deficiency of zinc is not very common because it is abundant in the food supply. If you're suffering from hypothyroidism, you need to eat more zinc-rich foods like oysters, shellfish,

 beef and chicken.

Foods that you should eat

Your natural thyroid diet should include foods which are good for you when you want to prevent or when you are suffering from hypothyroidism. Such foods include

Eggs– whole eggs are good for you because it contains iodine and selenium in the yolk.

Meats-you can consume all types of meats including lamb, beef, chicken and other meats.

Fish-all types of seafood including salmon, tuna, halibut, shrimp etc.

Vegetables-you can eat all types of vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables are better for you only if you eat them in moderate amounts.

Fruits-you can consume different types of foods including berries, bananas, oranges, tomatoes etc.

Gluten-free grains and seeds-rice, quinoa, buckwheat, chia seeds and flaxseed.

Dairy-all dairy products including milk, cheese, yogurt etc.

Beverages-water and non-caffeinated beverages.

Your natural thyroid diet should be based around vegetables, fruit and lean meats. They should be low in calories and filling, because such a diet will help you to prevent weight gain.

Foods to avoid

If you're suffering from hypothyroidism, there are not many foods that you need to avoid. If you are consuming foods containing goitrogens, then you should eat them in moderation and only when cooked. Avoid eating highly processed foods because they contain more calories and they can make you gain weight, which is not good for you when you're suffering from thyroid problem.

Foods and supplements that you should avoid-

Millet-all varieties of millet

Highly processed foods- hot dogs, cakes, cookies etc.

Supplements-you should avoid selenium and iodine supplements unless they are prescribed by your doctor.

It is always better to eat some other foods in moderation which include foods containing gluten, soy foods, cruciferous vegetables, certain fruits like peaches, pears and strawberries, and beverages like coffee, green tea and alcohol.

References

1. The Natural Thyroid Diet. Your Guide To Living Well, Living Vibrantly.
2. The Thyroid and You: Coping with a Common Condition
3. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)