Balance thyroid levels with these Hashimoto diet foods
Whether it’s plant-based, gluten-free, or inflammation-reducing, the best Hashimoto diet foods will be the ones that contain the best healthy fats, nutrients, and proteins. When choosing the best diet for you, bear in mind that everyone’s nutritional requirements may differ.
But wait, what in the world is Hashimoto? The word comes from the term Hashimoto thyroiditis, a common thyroid disorder in the United States. According to research, dietary and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce symptoms of Hashimoto thyroiditis in addition to taking medication. Treatment is crucial because every patient with this disorder can react differently.
We first would like to point out that there isn’t one specific diet to help with Hashimoto thyroiditis, as eating whole foods is most likely the best route to take. “Eating a diet rich in vegetables, healthy fats, and quality proteins is recommended for people with Hashimoto’s,” said registered dietitian Jeanette Kimszal of Thyroid Nutrition Educators. “Food that nourishes the immune system is important to have, eating a lot of processed foods high in sugar, unhealthy fat, and salt may trigger autoimmune issues.”
Now, here is our pick of Hashimoto diet foods:
Chicken and Fish
The majority of thyroid disease diets advise choosing chicken over beef or pork when choosing a protein source. Since they are leaner, it’s best to consume chicken breasts rather than dark meat parts like thighs or legs, and to choose grilled or broiled instead of fried. Fish is a lean protein high in omega-3s, in which studies have shown to decrease inflammation. Combining omega-3s and vitamin D may even lower the prevalence of inflammatory diseases.
Complex Carbohydrates
Whole grains make us feel full as they take longer to digest. Additionally, they have less sugar when compared to simple and refined carbohydrates such as white rice and white bread. To curb your hunger and lower sugar, include carbs like oats, quinoa, barley, and wheat flour in your Hashimoto diet foods.
Fruits (low sugar)
Some fruits have a higher sugar content by nature and should only be consumed in moderation when compared to fruits with lower sugar content. Try to replace bananas, cherries, and grapes with apples, berries, and coconut!
Seeds and Nuts
According to Harvard Health, almonds, peanuts, pecans, and walnuts are packed with fiber, magnesium, and protein while chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds are abundant in fiber, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. You’d be a nut not to add these to your list of Hashimoto diet foods.
Vegetables (non-starchy)
Keep your dietary sugar minimal because hypothyroidism can cause elevated blood sugar levels, according to the American Thyroid Association. When feasible, choose non-starchy veggies over potatoes. Asparagus, broccoli, and carrots are some of our favorites!