- By Bornika Das
- Thu, 22 May 2025 08:22 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Vegetarian Foods For Thyroid: The thyroid is a small but vital gland that plays a major role in maintaining the overall wellness of the body. This little butterfly-shaped gland in the neck helps regulate metabolism, energy levels, mood and even heart health. Thyroid imbalances lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. With hypothyroidism becoming more common in recent times, it makes people feel fatigued, foggy and sluggish. Although there are medications to control thyroid functioning, food and nutrition play a major role. Even vegetarian foods rich in thyroid-supporting nutrients help in boosting the gland’s functionality.
According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, vegetarian foods can influence thyroid function due to variations in nutrient intake. Foods like Brazil nuts, lentils, chickpeas, seaweed, mushrooms, fortified plant milk, and nutritional yeast provide selenium, iron, iodine, vitamin D, zinc and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for thyroid hormone synthesis and regulation. Thus, incorporating five vegetarian foods helps maintaining proper function of the thyroid gland.
Vegetarian Foods That Help Thyroid Function
Lentils
These simple legumes are rich in selenium, a nutrient that helps protect the thyroid from damage. Lentils provide plant-based protein and iron, benefiting the thyroid gland. Besides, they can be incorporated into everyday diet in the form of soups, stews or wraps.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, which plays a major role in the functionality of thyroid hormones. Pumpkin seeds are a crunchy and tasty and are also rich in magnesium and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation. Toss them into smoothies, sprinkle on salads or eat them as a snack.
Spinach
This leafy green is packed with iron and other minerals that is needed by the thyroid gland. When iron is low, the thyroid may struggle to work properly. Spinach also provides vitamin C and fibre, which support your overall health. Blend it into smoothies, sauté it with garlic, or add it to wraps to get the benefits of spinach.
Spinach To Boost Thyroid Function (Image Credits: Canva)
Chia Seeds
These tin seeds provide omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and antioxidants. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for reducing inflammation and supporting thyroid function. Add chia seeds into puddings, overnight oats or sprinkle over yoghurt for an easy nutrient boost.
Sweet Potatoes
They are rich in beta-carotene, which the body changes into vitamin A, a key nutrient for thyroid health. They are naturally sweet, comforting and easy to prepare. You can roast, mash or cut them into fries. They make a tasty and healthy addition to any meal.
(Disclaimer: This content, including suggestions and advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information before making any drastic changes in your lifestyle.)