The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that produces hormones our bodies require to help regulate metabolism, energy production, and growth. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to a condition known as hypothyroidism, which can cause fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and a range of other symptoms. Along with any medication or treatment plan that your healthcare provider recommends, there are natural ways to support thyroid health for those looking for how to increase thyroid hormone naturally. We’ll cover a few of those below.
How to Increase Thyroid Hormone Naturally
Along with following any recommendations from your healthcare provider, there’s also hope for those wondering how to increase thyroid hormone naturally. Start by making sure that your diet includes these nutrients.
Selenium-Rich Foods
Selenium is a micronutrient that can be found in certain proteins. In our bodies, the organ with the highest concentration of selenium per gram of tissue is the thyroid gland. Selenium plays a crucial role in thyroid function, as the thyroid requires selenium to support the thyroid’s antioxidant activity and metabolic activity. converting the T4 hormone into T3, the active form the body can use. Studies show that low selenium levels are associated with thyroid disorders, and researchers have generally concluded that maintaining adequate selenium levels is critical for both preventing thyroid disease and supporting overall health. Food sources with the highest concentration of selenium include:
- Meat products (especially organ meats, beef, turkey, and chicken)
- Fin fish and shellfish
- Brazil nuts
- Pasta or rice
- Whole-wheat bread and cereals
- Beans and lentils
Iodine-Rich Foods
Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, as it is one of the primary nutrients that the thyroid gland uses to make the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Those with hypothyroidism should ensure that their iodine intake is adequate, and increasing dietary sources of iodine may support thyroid hormone production.
Those with hyperthyroidism should be cautious regarding their iodine intake. Unlike hypothyroidism, which results in insufficient thyroid hormone production, hyperthyroidism is a condition wherein the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Because iodine is associated with stimulated thyroid hormone production, those with hyperthyroidism should be careful not to over consume it.
For those with hypothyroidism, or those looking for how to increase thyroid hormone naturally, iodine-rich food sources may help. Some good food sources of iodine include:
- Iodized salt
- Seaweed (including kelp, nori, kombu, and wakame)
- Fish and other seafood (including cod, oysters, shrimp, and fish sticks)
- Eggs
- Some dairy products (like nonfat milk, Greek yogurt, and cheddar cheese)
Incorporate Lean Proteins and Complex Carbohydrates
Along with selenium and iodine-rich foods, look to incorporate lean proteins and complex carbohydrates into your diet. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates, which can help provide a steady energy supply throughout the day and can help regulate the release of thyroid hormones in the body.
Proteins are also essential, as they help transport thyroid hormones throughout the body. Good food sources of lean proteins include lean meats, poultry, fish, and legumes (such as lentils and chickpeas).
If you have a diagnosed thyroid condition, it’s always best to work with a healthcare professional to ensure that you’re getting the right treatment for your needs. And while there’s no surefire way to guarantee increased thyroid hormone production naturally, making dietary changes can be a good start. A good diet for hypothyroidism will likely include plenty of iodine, selenium, complex carbohydrates and lean proteins. You may be able to support your thyroid gland and overall health. To get started, read our recommendation for the best thyroid supplement.
