Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition caused by an iodine deficiency due to a lack of thyroxine produced by your thyroid gland. Common symptoms associated with the condition include excessive weight gain, hoarseness, fatigue, muscle weakness or depression. Prescription medication can be taken to provide synthetic thyroids, which balances out your hormone levels and reduces symptoms. You can also add iodine to your diet, which can help reduce hypothyroidism symptoms and balance your iodine levels.
Add seafood to your diet. Salmon, tuna and shellfish are just a handful of healthy choices of seafood that provide plenty of iodine. According to the International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (ICCIDD), seawater fish contain higher amounts of iodine than freshwater fish.
Drink one glass of milk daily. Milk is also a high source of iodine, which can prevent the risk of developing a goiter due to a lack of thyroxine being produced by the thyroid gland.
Avoid certain vegetables. Some vegetables can neutralize iodine, which can exacerbate hypothyroidism. These vegetables include cauliflower, cabbage, brussel sprouts, broccoli and turnips. Potatos are the only vegetable source of iodine.
Include table salt in your diet. Look for iodized salt when grocery shopping, as most salts have iodine added to prevent iodine deficiency. The recommended daily allowance for iodine is 150 micrograms (mcg). You can also find iodine in processed foods and canned vegetables.
Take iodine supplements. Iodine supplements are available at most health and vitamin stores, but are not guaranteed to work, according to the Mayo Clinic. Follow the package directions carefully to avoid too much iodine intake, which can cause iodine toxicity.
Tips & Warnings
- Talk to your physician about medications to improve your hormone balance and reduce symptoms caused by hypothyroidism.