9 Food Items to Keep Your Thyroid Gland Healthy

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The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck which directs the body's metabolism and growth. The gland produces hormones crucial for the optimal functioning of the body. Nowadays a vast majority of people are becoming aware of the importance of keeping the thyroid gland healthy. They choose to eat a diet that helps to keep the thyroid gland functioning properly. 

If you are also looking for food items that can help to keep the thyroid gland healthy, we have a comprehensive list for you:-

1.     Brazil Nuts

Selenium is important for the optimal functioning of the thyroid gland. It has been observed that a diet low in selenium is associated with an increased risk of thyroid disease. Eating brazil nuts in good proportion can help to meet the selenium demands and keep the thyroid functioning properly. 

2.     Oysters

If you are a fan of seafood then oysters are something that you must include in your diet. These briny mollusks are an enriched source of zinc which helps the body to produce the most important thyroid hormone T3. Oysters are also enriched with selenium and other minerals involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormone.  

3.     Seaweed

Seaweed is nothing else but, marine algae. These days seaweed has become an increasingly important ingredient of various cuisines. It is mainly rich in iodine which is vital for the functioning of the thyroid gland. The deficiency of iodine in the body may lead to the onset of conditions such as goitre and cretinism. Seaweed is also a rich source of vitamin K, B vitamins, zinc, and iron.

4.     Greek Yogurt

I guess everyone knows about the benefits of eating yogurt. It is a probiotic and provides some good bacteria for the gut as well as the intestines. Yogurt is important because major thyroid issues are caused by autoimmune diseases and probiotics can help to keep the immune system working efficiently. Also, yogurt is a rich source of iodine needed by the thyroid gland for its optimal  functioning. 

5.     Eggs

Eggs have numerous uses; they are a very good and inexpensive source of high-quality protein. Eggs are also a rich source of vitamin D, B6, B12 and minerals such as iron, zinc, and copper all needed to support the functioning of the thyroid gland. 

6.     Berries

Free radicals in the body are the by-product of oxygen metabolism and can be very harmful. Anti-oxidants are needed by the body to combat these free radicals and lower the oxidative stress. Berries are rich in anti-oxidants and therefore can go a long way in battling the dangerous free radicals. 

7.     Milk

People nowadays consume very less amount of milk directly, no doubt that the consumption of dairy products has increased, but they do not offer optimal minerals and proteins. It is known that drinking about 1 cup of low-fat milkevery day can help to meet one-third of a person's daily iodine needs. Apart from iodine, milk is also a rich source of calcium and Vitamin D. 

8.     Chicken breast

A grilled chicken breast not only calms your taste buds but is also a great source of proteins and minerals. We all are aware of the importance that zinc holds in the functioning of the thyroid gland, and chicken breasts are a great source of zinc. Therefore, if you wish to keep your thyroid gland healthy, do not forget to add chicken breasts to your diet.  

9.     Fruits 

No diet is complete with the inclusion of healthy and detoxifying fruits. If you wish to keep your thyroid functioning optimally it is important that you consume a lot of fruits. Fruits are rich in fibers which help our body detoxify further helping the thyroid to work smoothly. Consuming fruits also flushes out metals such as mercury which hinders the ability of the thyroid gland to absorb iodine. 

Thyroid related ailments have become very common and affect the lives of a large chunk of populace across the globe. However, diet plays a very important role in keeping the thyroid gland healthy. In case you or any of your dear ones suffer from thyroid-related problems, doctor must be consulted. You can take an appointment at docprime.com, to consult some of the best doctors in the city. Thyroid ailments if diagnosed in time can be properly treated and prevented from progressing into a fatal condition.