Foods to support thyroid health & help reduce symptoms...

Foods to support thyroid health: with a focus on hypothyroidism and nutrition tips to help reduce the symptoms that can be present.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disease in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It can cause a number of symptoms, such as poor ability to tolerate cold, extreme fatigue, muscle aches, constipation, slow heart rate, depression, and weight gain. Occasionally there may be swelling of the front part of the neck due to goiter.

Having been diagnosed with this disease myself many years back, I struggled with these symptoms even while taking medication for four years, before healing myself naturally using food and lifestyle. I no longer need medication and all my symptoms gradually disappeared during the years after. The list below is short but some of my personal recommendations for those with this disease to incorporate into the diet.

1. Raw Butter from grass-fed cows

Raw butter is such an under-rated food and has even been seen as unhealthy in the past due to the high saturated fat content. However, saturated fat is actually the most stable fat, and the nutrition and vitamin content of raw butter is excellent.

• Raw butter is a great source of enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals that are often lost during the pasteurisation process.

Including healthy fats into the diet, such as butter, cheese, organic extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, is so important for those with symptoms such as dry skin, cold intolerance and digestive issues. People may feel inclined to avoid fats due to the weight gain that can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, however dietary fat does not correlate to weight gain.

2. Honey

Honey is an anti-inflammatory, soothing for the gut, and full of nutrients. Fatigue is a common symptom, and a little bit of honey can really help increase energy levels when eaten in moderation. When consuming sugar in the form of honey or fruit, it's best to pair with a protein and a fat to keep blood sugar levels balanced.

3. Bone broth

Bone broth from cooked chicken, lamb or beef bones is a great warming food, full of protein, with small amounts of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Bone broth contains the essential amino acids in an absorbable form which is easy on the gut.

4. Raw carrot salad.

For constipation, the addition of fibre is extremely helpful. Raw, shredded carrots paired with apple cider vinegar and a fat such as olive oil or coconut oil creates a powerful combination to help eliminate toxins and excess estrogen. Apple cider vinegar is a probiotic which will also aid in digestion. Aim to eat about 15 minutes before a meal to improve digestion of the meal.

5. Cooked apples

Again, it's best to add in warming foods such as cooked apples, which also have a high fibre content. Pair with a protein & fat such as greek yogurt, or butter and nuts.

If you have symptoms of hypothyroidism or have been diagnosed, try adding in these foods and see how you feel!