Five Friday Favourites – Thyroid supporting foods

Something I’m learning more about at the moment through my holistic nutrition studies are the various approaches for “eating right for your type”, whether that be blood type or endocrine type. 

I’m an ‘Enthusiast’ endocrine type, ruled by the thyroid gland – sensitive to the cold, easily fatigued, and needs plenty of protein to keep me from gnawing off my arm. So for today, I thought I’d do a post today on foods that nourish and support the thyroid gland, for those of us that are Enthusiasts or those that suffer from other thyroid issues…

1. Sea vegetables - Algae and seaweeds contain high levels of natural iodine which is known to stimulate the thyroid gland. Snack on nori chips, eat the wakame in miso soup (those are the floating green bits) and add dulse or kelp flakes to soups. 
2. Flaxseed – These little brown seeds are known to be rich in essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which is good for thyroid health. In a study conducted at the University Of Maryland Medical Centre, it was found out that consumption of foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, like flaxseed, helps in boosting the production of thyroid hormones. This results to reduced susceptibility to hypothyroidism.
3. Liquorice – I often drink liquorice tea during the day and was pleased to find out that this herb is important in maintaining a balance among glands – especially the adrenal and thyroid glands – which can lead to improved energy. 
4. Seafood, especially Wild Salmon – Another notable source of selenium, which helps the thyroid function properly, keeping both your weight and overall health in check. Salmon is also rich in other anti-inflammatory fats, and antioxidants which protect healthy cells by fighting off free radicals.
5. Brazil nuts – these tasty little nuts are the richest dietary source of selenium, which is essential for converting thyroid hormones to their active form. Selenium is also deficient in New Zealand soil so you probably need to take steps to supplement your diet with this mineral.  Just 2-3 Brazil nuts a day will do the trick.
   

I can’t wait to put more of this knowledge into practice, and as always, use my own body as the guinea pig.