Diet Alterations To Deal With Hypothyroid!

Iodine is definitely the key ingredient, but not the only ingredient. Selenium is responsible for the conversion of T4 to the active ingredient T3. So, though iodine levels may be adequate and T4 is produced, if not converted to the active form, the effect may not be evident. Foods rich in selenium should be consumed including salmon, brazil nuts, tuna, whole grains, garlic, and onions. The doctor might check for T3 and T4 levels and accordingly decide if selenium supplement is essential for you.

Though iodine is the first chemical that comes to mind when we think of thyroid, there are other food products too. Selenium, for instance, is essential for producing thyroid hormone. Omega-3 fatty acids again are a key ingredient in the hormone production along with proteins are all important for a healthy thyroid gland. A wholesome diet with all these key minerals can ensure that a person does not develop a deficiency. If you are at risk of hypothyroidism, check with your doctor if you need iodine supplements.

An exact test will indicate whether there is a T3 or a T4 deficiency level in your body. Accordingly, the doctor will decide what supplements are required and at what dosage. The dosage needs to be revisited periodically, usually annually, based on blood thyroid hormone levels. Annual check on the T3 and T4 levels is essential to avoid complications of hypothyroidism.

Any food can have ill effects and benefits. The above foods have their benefits, but if at risk for hypothyroid, avoid them, including horseradish and sweet potato. They accelerate the onset as well as increase the severity of symptoms. Avoiding these can help keep the supplement level to a minimum and avoid worsening of symptoms. If you are at risk for hypothyroidism, read up or check with your doctor on foods to avoid.