Diet to Increase Thyroid Function

The thyroid is a gland that resides at the base of the neck. One of the major functions of the thyroid is to regulate metabolism. Since metabolism controls weight, a change in an individual's weight, particularly weight gain, can be an indicator that the thyroid is not functioning properly. A common cause for thyroid problems is a lack of iodine in the diet. Therefore, diet is very important in regulating the thyroid.

Iodine

Iodine has a direct effect on how the thyroid functions, and a lack of this mineral can be addressed through diet. According to the American Thyroid Association, "The primary activity of the thyroid gland is to concentrate iodine from the blood to make thyroid hormone. The gland cannot make enough thyroid hormone if it does not have enough iodine. Therefore, with iodine deficiency the individual will become hypothyroid." According to CNN.com, medical experts say women over the age of 35 have as much as a 30 percent chance of being diagnosed with hypothyroidism.

Foods Containing Iodine

Sea salt, iodized salt, seafood, eggs, dairy, cheese, bread, shellfish and yogurt are examples of high-iodine foods. If you are concerned that your thyroid may be producing too much or too little iodine, the first step is to seek the advise of a medical doctor. Increasing or decreasing these foods will help regulate the thyroid.

Reducing Goiters

When there is too much or too little iodine in the diet, causing the thyroid to malfunction, a signal is sent to the brain. According to the American Thyroid Association, "This signal is called thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). As the name implies, this hormone stimulates the thyroid to produce thyroid hormone and to grow in size. This abnormal growth in size produces what is termed a "goiter." According to Prevention.com, some vegetables known as goitrogens could hinder the production of thyroid hormones, especially when eaten uncooked. These foods include soy, and cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, kale, and cauliflower. If hypothyroidism is an issue, reduce the intake of eating these foods in their raw form.

Different Fats

Signs of hypothyroidism include feeling sluggish and an inability to lose weight. Prevention.com recommends increasing foods rich in omega fatty acids such as flaxseed, cod, sardines and other saltwater fish. Another suggestion, from Dr. Neetu Dhiman of the Richmond Review, is to take certain fats - hydrogenated oils and foods with trans fats, along with corn and soy oils - in moderation. The thyroid gland is made up mostly of fats; hydrogenated oils and trans fats may have a clogging effect, hindering the gland from its ability to do its job. In contrast, Dhiman recommends the use of fats such as butter, virgin coconut oil, olive oil, cod liver oil, evening primrose oil and flaxseed oil, which may help increase metabolism.

Sample Meals

A daily variety of foods to help the thyroid can include boiled eggs, bread and yogurt for breakfast. For lunch, try a grilled cheese on french bread and a fruit shake enriched with ground flaxseed. Dinner can be a meal of baked or steamed cod, drizzled with butter or olive oil, served with a salad. Sprinkle foods with sea salt to taste.