Vitamin A deficiency can cause thyroid glands to grow bigger and decrease absorption of iodine, limiting production of thyroid stimulating hormone. Vitamin A is important to turn total thyroxine to triiodothyronine. Typically the body can convert carotene to vitamin A, however those with hypothyroidism can not. Eating foods rich in vitamin A will not help unless followed by a protein. Vitamin A can be produced by the body from phytonutrients alpha and beta carotene found in vegetables and some fruits.
B-vitamins are good for the thyroid, but B2, B3, And B12 are the best for an underactive thyroid gland. B12 can be found in almonds, avocado, mushrooms, beef and pork. B3 can be found in brown rice, avocado, and peanuts. B12 can be found in breakfast cereals, meats, and seafood.
Most people with this condition are lacking in vitamin D, the lower the levels are the more severe the symptoms will be. Vitamin D can be obtained in direct sunlight, cod liver oil, orange juice, and supplements.
Both Vitamins C and E are antioxidants which are highly beneficial in preventing hypothyroidism. Intake of these vitamins and turmeric can increase triiodothyronine and thyroxine levels. Good choices for vitamin C include citric fruits; and nuts and seeds for vitamin E.
Selenium is an important mineral for overall health including the thyroid. Selenium can be found in shiitake mushrooms, meat, poultry, and sea fish such as tuna.
Being deficient in zinc can lead to thyroid problems, effective thyroid hormones are needed to absorb zinc as well, meaning hypothyroidism can lead to zinc deficiency. Consuming foods such as legumes, seeds, nuts, red meat, and poultry can help to provide zinc the body needs.
L-carnitine can help to fight fatigue, particularly in those under 50 years of age who experienced thyroid cancer. L-carnitine can be obtained from cooked meat, organic dairy products, and cooked vegetables.
Certain nutrients are helpful to an underactive thyroid while others can inhibit proper thyroid functioning. With hypothyroidism some foods should be avoided altogether including all varieties of millet, and highly processed foods such as hot dogs, cookies, and cakes.
