Have Hashimoto’s? You need to be eating these!

Food plays a huge role in ditching Hashimoto's symptoms in several ways.

Certain nutrients are necessary for the proper function of the thyroid gland, and a diet that is deficient in these nutrients may worsen Hashimoto's symptoms. For example, iodine and selenium are important minerals that are necessary for thyroid hormone production, and a deficiency in these minerals can worsen Hashimoto's symptoms.

Hashimoto's is an inflammatory condition, and certain foods can either exacerbate or alleviate inflammation. Eating a diet that is high in processed and high-sugar foods can contribute to inflammation, while a diet that is rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, gluten free whole grains, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and improve thyroid function.

A lot of people with Hashimoto's may have sensitivities or intolerances to certain foods, such as gluten or dairy products, which can exacerbate symptoms. Identifying and eliminating these trigger foods can help improve symptoms and overall health.

It's important to note that everyone's needs are unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. My best advice is to keep track of how you react to certain foods and eat more of what makes you feel good and energized, while leaving out foods that make you feel bloated or tired.

So, what should you eat if you have Hashimoto’s?

1. Selenium-rich foods: Selenium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid function. Good sources of selenium include brazil nuts, tuna, sardines, turkey, and eggs.
2. Iodine-rich foods: Iodine is another important mineral that is necessary for thyroid hormone production. Good sources of iodine include seaweed, cod, shrimp, and dairy products.
3. Anti-inflammatory foods: Hashimoto's is an inflammatory condition, so incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as colorful fruits, vegetables, gluten-free whole grains, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil can be helpful.
4. Gluten-free foods: Many people with Hashimoto's have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, which can exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding gluten-containing foods may help reduce inflammation and improve thyroid function.
5. Fermented foods: Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir contain probiotics that can support gut health, which is important for overall immune function and may help reduce inflammation.
6. Bone broth: Bone broth is a rich source of collagen and other nutrients that may help support gut health and reduce inflammation.
7. Omega 3s: Omega 3 fats are extremely anti-inflammatory and also help with weight loss. Aim to eat fish or seafood 3x or more per week to really see the benefits.

And what foods should you avoid?

1. Gluten-containing foods: Many people with Hashimoto's have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, which can exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding gluten-containing foods may help reduce inflammation and improve thyroid function.
2. Soy products: Soy contains compounds called goitrogens, which can interfere with thyroid function and exacerbate Hashimoto's symptoms.
3. Processed and high-sugar foods: These types of foods can contribute to inflammation and may worsen Hashimoto's symptoms. It's best to choose whole, unprocessed foods as much as possible.
4. Dairy products: Some people with Hashimoto's may have a sensitivity or intolerance to dairy products, which can exacerbate symptoms.
5. Alcohol and caffeine: These substances can interfere with thyroid function and exacerbate symptoms, so it's best to consume them in moderation or avoid them altogether.

When in doubt, stick to the perimeter of the grocery store and choose packaged foods with the least amount of ingredients!