The small, butterfly-shaped thyroid gland located at the front of the neck controls and regulates your heart rate, temperature, metabolism, energy and a whole lot more. When your thyroid is not functioning well, your entire endocrine system suffers. Dr. Lynne Ahn of Ahn Point Wellness discusses ways to protect the health of your thyroid gland.
1. Eat Thyroid-Protective Foods
One of the best ways to protect your thyroid’s health is by consuming thyroid-boosting foods. The top foods for thyroid health include:
- Seaweed – Your thyroid requires sufficient amounts of iodine to function properly. Seaweed is among the healthiest sources of iodine, so try consuming seaweed salad once or twice weekly. That’s all you need of these sea greens to experience the thyroid benefits.
- Greek Yogurt and Other Dairy Foods – While all yogurts contain iodine, Greek yogurt is an especially good source. Just one cup a day delivers 50 percent of your daily iodine requirements. Other dairy products are also good for your thyroid. These include low-fat milk and various kinds of cheese.
- Nuts – Enjoy a healthy snack while helping your thyroid. Nuts are full of thyroid-friendly nutrients. Brazil nuts are chock full of selenium, which is necessary for a healthy thyroid. Hazelnuts and macadamia nuts are also good choices.
- Berries –Packed with antioxidants, berries fight free radicals in the body. Those with thyroid deficiencies usually have more free radicals in their bodies than those with normal thyroid function. Strawberries, blackberries and cranberries are just a few tasty berry options.
- Eggs – A fine source of iodine and selenium, eggs should be consumed in their entirety for the best results (unless you have other health issues that make eating the yolk unwise).
- Shellfish and Other Seafood – Iodine is found in many types of fish. That’s the case with shellfish such as crab, oysters, shrimp and lobster. Other top fish options include tuna, cod, salmon, sardines and trout.
2. Avoid Certain Foods
Along with thyroid-protectant foods, there are also foods to avoid. The worst culprits are processed and fast foods, which are bad for overall health. Soy may affect thyroid health, so eliminate soy products from your diet.
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise, combined with a healthy diet, can improve thyroid function. Exercise can ease stress, which plays a role in thyroid issues. A stressed body releases the cortisol hormone, and this interferes with the thyroid’s ability to produce its own hormones. Low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming, is a suitable way to stay in shape and aid your thyroid. On the other hand, excessive exercise, such as long-distance running, can raise cortisol levels.
4. Always Use an X-Ray Shield
The thyroid gland is extremely sensitive to radiation. When undergoing X-rays, especially dental X-rays, always request a lead thyroid shield to protect this key gland.
For More Information, Contact Dr. Lynne Ahn
For more information and to ascertain the health of your thyroid, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lynne Ahn of Ahn Point Wellness today.
