The thyroid gland might be small, but its impact is big. According to the NHS website, the thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just in front of the windpipe (trachea). It produces hormones that affect your heart rate, body temperature and more. The ideal is to have a balanced thyroid, but when it is unbalanced, overactive or underactive, it can have serious effects on our well-being.
Carol-Ann Robert, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Team Nutrition, who also lives with the autoimmune hyperthyroidism Graves' Disease, says: "Despite its tiny size, the thyroid has a big function. It produces hormones that regulate your body temperature, metabolism (like weight loss or gain), and even growth and development. An imbalanced thyroid, whether underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), can also significantly alter your mood, among other things. Maintaining the health of your thyroid aids in maintaining these essential processes."
Why is thyroid health so important?
Dr Kezia Joy, a Registered Dietitian, notes how the thyroid is crucial for the effective functioning of our energy, metabolism and hormonal balance. "Underactivity or overactivity can influence everything, including weight and mood, as well as heart health. Due to its impact on such a large number of systems, even minor imbalances can affect a large scale. Thyroid health is thus important in the long-term wellness, energy stability and prevention of diseases."
© Getty ImagesWhat foods should we be eating to help our thyroid health?
The British Thyroid Foundation state that for people without an existing thyroid condition, iodine is essential as it is required for the production of thyroxine. They also state that iodine is especially important for women who are pregnant. Generally speaking, however, most people can get a sufficient amount of iodine from eating a balanced diet, particularly if it contains foods such as dairy, fish, shellfish and eggs.
Carol-Ann explained that those living with diagnosed thyroid conditions will likely have different needs and requirements. "It's crucial to keep in mind that the recommendations may vary based on your thyroid condition, such as Graves' disease or Hashimoto's disease. To find out what works best for you, always consult a registered dietitian."
However, the Association of UK Dietitians state that it is possible to have too much iodine. "Excessive iodine intake can cause thyroid problems and should be avoided. Kelp and seaweed are food sources that are likely to lead to excessive iodine intake. It is difficult to say how much is too much, as this varies between people. If you have thyroid disease or are already iodine deficient, an iodine intake that would be considered normal for the general population may affect you." As per their advice, if in doubt, speak to your GP or a registered dietitian.
© Getty Images/iStockphotoWhat foods should we be avoiding?
As mentioned, if you're living with a thyroid condition, it's advisable that you avoid foods like kelp and seaweed as they are sources likely to lead to excessive iodine intake.
© Getty ImagesDr Kezia also noted that highly processed foods are a no-go. "Hormones are broken, and inflammation is aggravated by highly processed foods that contain high sugar and unhealthy fats. These may impose further load on the thyroid."
