Diet & Hypothyroidism
A few years ago at a thyroid seminar, I was surprised to learn that certain vegetables can be goitrogenic. The vegetables outlined were kale, cabbage, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts and was thought to be one of the causes of hypothyroidism and/or goiters.
These foods were thought to inhibit the uptake of iodine and compromise the thyroid. Many health care practitioners were advising their hypothyroid clients and clients with goitres to avoid these foods.
In the 70’s and 80’s research was done on these vegetables in test tubes and the result of this research showed that these vegetables have goitrogenic effects.
However, these findings were never replicated on animals or humans.
Now, new research has shown that the brassicas and other vegetables (kale, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts) that had previously been classified as goitrogens are beneficial for thyroid health because they contain high antioxidants and flavonoids.
Iodine
In the past, Iodine was deemed beneficial for people with hypothyroidism but that advice has now changed and been identified as incorrect.
Numerous studies now show that a low-iodine diet is what most patients benefit from, especially those with Hashimoto’s. The reason being is that Iodine triggers the production of antibodies against the thyroid and some people do not get any symptoms until they have thyroid blood tests which confirm Hashimoto’s.
Other things that may cause thyroid issues
Gluten containing products, lectins (found in seeds, nuts and nightshade vegetables), unstable blood sugar spikes (feeling tired after you eat is a symptoms of high blood sugar while feeling energized after you eat is a symptom of low blood sugar, if your blood sugar is stable you feel the same before and after you eat).
Diversity in your Microbiome
A great support is to create diversity in your microbiome which will help to modulate the immune system, the more diverse the bacteria species in your gut are, the less autoimmunity expresses.
Diet can play a great role in your healing journey and is wonderfully complimented by Homeopathy as there are many homeopathic remedies that can support the thyroid.
If you are struggling with thyroid issues get in touch HERE and we can work on a healing protocol for your thyroid to gain better health and wellness.