The thyroid is a gland that is especially important for health and well-being. Thyroid diseases affect millions of people worldwide, and in many cases require medication, but it is also important to remember the role of healthy nutrition and diet. Here, you will find the most important information about thyroid diseases and the impact of diet on their proper treatment.
The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the neck, producing hormones that affect many aspects of body function. Its structure is relatively simple, consisting of two parts, each with two lobes. The thyroid also contains submucosal glands that produce thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
The main function of the thyroid is to regulate the body's metabolism. Thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolic processes that affect all organs and systems. These hormones are also essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system, growth, development, blood pressure regulation, and maintaining normal blood glucose levels.
Additionally, the thyroid plays an important role in the development and maturation of the body. Thyroid hormones are necessary for proper sexual maturation during adolescence. They also influence brain development and children's growth. A deficiency in thyroid hormones can cause fatigue, constipation, concentration problems, and dry skin. Conversely, an excess can manifest as a rapid heartbeat, nervous disorders, hand tremors, and increased sweating. Therefore, it is important to monitor thyroid hormone levels and treat any abnormalities.
Thyroid diseases affect both women and men of all ages, though women are more commonly affected. Some data suggest the incidence ratio is as high as 8:1. If the thyroid does not function properly, pharmacotherapy is necessary. Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Hashimoto's disease are three different health issues impacting thyroid function. Each of these conditions has different symptoms requiring different approaches.
Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is a condition where the body produces too few thyroid hormones. Symptoms of this disorder include weakness, fatigue, concentration problems, weight gain, mood swings, sleepiness, dry skin and hair, menstrual cycle disorders, facial swelling, and foot swelling. Treatment for hypothyroidism usually involves taking synthetic thyroid hormones to supplement the deficiency.
Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, is a condition where the body produces too many thyroid hormones. Symptoms include hand tremors, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, sleep problems, weakness, weight loss, difficulty concentrating, dry skin and hair, quick fatigue, and concentration issues. Treatment for hyperthyroidism generally involves taking medications that inhibit thyroid hormone production. Surgical removal of part of the gland may also be an option to reduce hormone production.
Hashimoto's Disease Hashimoto's disease is a chronic autoimmune condition causing the body to produce antibodies that attack the thyroid. Symptoms include sleepiness, fatigue, weakness, weight gain, dry skin and hair, menstrual cycle disorders, facial swelling, and foot swelling. Treatment for Hashimoto's typically involves medications that suppress antibody production and taking synthetic thyroid hormones to supplement the deficiency.
A proper diet significantly impacts thyroid disorders. Healthy nutrition can help in preventing and treating both hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and other thyroid diseases.
One of the most important factors to consider when planning a diet for people with thyroid disorders is ensuring an adequate supply of iodine in the diet. Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, and its deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism. To ensure an adequate iodine level in the diet, it is recommended to use iodized salt and consume naturally iodine-rich products like sea fish, seafood, eggs, and dairy products.
For hyperthyroidism, such products should be avoided. Additionally, fiber plays a crucial role in their diet. A high intake of fiber-rich products can reduce the absorption of thyroid hormones. It is also important to avoid products high in glucose and fructose and saturated fats, which can interfere with thyroxine absorption. It is also recommended to consume plenty of vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and minerals.
Overall, a healthy diet that includes a lot of vegetables, fruits, iodine-containing products, and avoiding fiber-rich products, glucose, fructose, and saturated fats can help manage thyroid dysfunctions. However, it is important to consult a doctor or dietitian to determine the best dietary plan for your health condition.
What you eat affects your hormone balance and is especially important if you have hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Different foods can have positive or negative effects on your health. Below are sample meal plans for people with thyroid diseases.
If you have hypothyroidism, your diet should be rich in three elements: iodine, selenium, and zinc. These support the production of thyroid hormones, which you are deficient in. The table below lists recommended and non-recommended foods for hypothyroidism.
Table 1: Recommended and Non-recommended Foods for Hypothyroidism
| Food Group | Recommended | Non-recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Cereal Products | Wholemeal bread, buckwheat, millet, barley, brown rice, wholemeal pasta, cereals | White bread, semolina, couscous, white rice, light pasta, sweet pastries (e.g., doughnuts, croissants) |
| Vegetables | All except raw cruciferous vegetables, cooked cruciferous vegetables in small amounts | Raw cruciferous vegetables: cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, turnips, rutabaga |
| Fruits | All fresh and frozen, small amounts of dried | Canned, candied fruits, jams, preserves, jellies |
| Nuts, Seeds, Legumes | Walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, Brazil nuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame, flaxseed, all legumes except soy | Salted and caramelized peanuts and pine nuts, soy |
| Dairy and Eggs | Milk up to 2% fat, natural yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, low-fat cottage cheese, eggs | Full-fat dairy products: yellow cheese, blue cheese, processed cheese, cream |
| Meat and Products | Lean meat: beef, veal, rabbit, lean cold cuts (ham, tenderloin, poultry), pork (in limited amounts), skinless poultry | Fatty meat: pork, lamb, fatty and offal cold cuts (pâté, mortadella, salami), fatty poultry (duck, goose), pickled meat, meat preserves |
| Fish and Products | Fatty and lean fish, e.g., salmon, herring, mackerel, cod, trout | Smoked, marinated fish, fish preserves |
| Fats | Vegetable oils, olive oil, small amounts of butter | Lard, bacon, hard margarines, mayonnaise |
| Drinks | Water, herbal teas, coffee, black tea, vegetable juices | Alcohol, carbonated, sweetened, or energy drinks |
The main goal of a hyperthyroidism diet is to prevent excessive weight loss. Therefore, caloric intake should be appropriately tailored to maintain a proper BMI.
If you suffer from hyperthyroidism, it is also important to moderately consume iodine, as its excess can exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, ensure an adequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants – mainly vitamins E, C, beta-carotene, and polyphenols. Unlike hypothyroidism, cruciferous vegetables are desired in a hyperthyroidism diet.
The diet should be balanced and meet the basic requirements of a healthy diet. Many recommended foods overlap with those for hypothyroidism. The table below lists recommended and non-recommended foods for hyperthyroidism. It is also worth noting that for hyperthyroidism, eating up to 7 smaller meals a day is recommended.
Table 2: Recommended and Non-recommended Foods for Hyperthyroidism
| Food Group | Recommended | Non-recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Cereal Products | Wholemeal bread, buckwheat, millet, barley, brown rice, wholemeal pasta, cereals | White bread, semolina, couscous, white rice, light pasta, sweet pastries (e.g., doughnuts, croissants) |
| Vegetables | All except iodine-rich, especially cruciferous and leafy green vegetables | Iodine-rich, e.g., seaweed, algae |
| Fruits | All fresh and frozen, small amounts of dried | Canned, candied fruits, jams, preserves, jellies |
| Nuts, Seeds, Legumes | Walnuts, hazelnuts, cashews, Brazil nuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame, flaxseed, all legumes | Processed and highly salted products like sweets |
| Dairy and Eggs | All dairy products, full-fat in moderate amounts, eggs | Highly processed products |
| Meat and Products | Lean meat: beef, veal, rabbit, lean cold cuts (ham, tenderloin, poultry), pork (in limited amounts), skinless poultry | Fatty meat: pork, lamb, fatty and offal cold cuts (pâté, mortadella, salami), fatty poultry (duck, goose), pickled meat, meat preserves |
| Fish and Products | Lean fish, e.g., cod, trout | Fatty fish (due to high iodine content), smoked, marinated fish, fish preserves |
| Fats | Vegetable oils, olive oil, small amounts of butter | Lard, bacon, hard margarines, mayonnaise |
| Drinks | Water, herbal teas, coffee, black tea, vegetable juices | Alcohol, carbonated, sweetened, or energy drinks |
The thyroid plays a significant role in regulating metabolism and many other body functions. Maintaining thyroid health is crucial for overall well-being. Proper diet and nutrition can play a key role in managing thyroid diseases such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. By following a diet rich in appropriate nutrients and avoiding foods that may interfere with thyroid function, you can help support the proper treatment and management of these conditions. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to tailor your dietary plan to your specific needs and health condition.
