Hashimoto’s disease, also called chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder in which your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, causing inflammation and leading to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

The most common symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease are fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, and depression.

If you have Hashimoto’s disease, you should be aware of the importance of your diet. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help you manage your symptoms, improve your energy level, and support your overall health and well-being.

Here are some of the best foods and nutrients that you should include in your diet if you have Hashimoto’s disease:.

1. Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a vital role in thyroid function. It helps your thyroid gland produce and regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and protect your thyroid from damage.

Studies have shown that people with Hashimoto’s disease have lower levels of selenium in their blood than healthy individuals.

Good sources of selenium include:.

Brazil nuts
Seafood (tuna, shrimp, sardines)
Eggs
Chicken
Beef

2. Iodine

Iodine is an essential mineral that your body needs to make thyroid hormones. However, iodine intake can be tricky for people with Hashimoto’s disease.

While some people with hypothyroidism may benefit from additional iodine in their diet, too much iodine can actually trigger or worsen Hashimoto’s disease in some individuals. It’s best to talk to your doctor about your specific iodine needs.

Some food sources of iodine include:.

Seaweed
Seafood (shrimp, cod, tuna, salmon)
Dairy products
Eggs

3. Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for thyroid function. It helps your thyroid produce hormones, regulate immune function, and reduce inflammation.

Studies have shown that people with hypothyroidism have lower levels of zinc in their blood than healthy individuals.

Food sources of zinc include:.

Oysters
Beef
Pork
Chicken
Legumes (beans, lentils)

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for thyroid function, immune system, and bone health. Studies have shown that people with Hashimoto’s disease have lower levels of vitamin D in their blood than healthy individuals.

Vitamin D deficiency is also common among people with hypothyroidism.

Sources of vitamin D include:.

Sunlight exposure
Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)
Egg yolks
Mushrooms

5. Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to inflammation and disease.

Antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and protect your thyroid from damage.

Food sources of antioxidants include:.

Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
Dark chocolate
Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
Green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach)
Green tea

6. Fiber

Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol. People with hypothyroidism often have digestive issues, such as constipation, so getting enough fiber in your diet is important.

Food sources of fiber include:.

Whole grains (oats, brown rice)
Legumes (beans, lentils)
Fruits (apples, bananas)
Vegetables (broccoli, carrots)
Nuts (almonds, walnuts)

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that are important for brain health, heart health, and inflammation. They may also help reduce inflammation and protect your thyroid from damage.

Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include:.

Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)
Flaxseeds
Chia seeds
Walnuts
Spinach

8. Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system. They help balance the bacteria in your gut and support a healthy immune system.

People with Hashimoto’s disease may have an imbalance of gut bacteria, which can contribute to inflammation and autoimmune problems.

Sources of probiotics include:.

Yogurt
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Kombucha

9. Gluten-Free Foods

Some people with Hashimoto’s disease may have a gluten sensitivity or intolerance, which can worsen autoimmune symptoms and trigger inflammation.

If you have Hashimoto’s disease and suspect you may have a gluten sensitivity, you may benefit from a gluten-free diet.

Sources of gluten-free grains include:.

Quinoa
Brown rice
Millet
Buckwheat

10. Low-Sugar Foods

People with hypothyroidism may have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, so it’s important to monitor your sugar intake and eat a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.

Sources of low-sugar foods include:.

Fruits (berries, apples)
Vegetables (broccoli, spinach)
Whole grains (oats, brown rice)
Legumes (beans, lentils)
Nuts (almonds, walnuts)

Conclusion

If you have Hashimoto’s disease, it’s important to pay attention to your diet and make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that includes healthy sources of selenium, iodine, zinc, vitamin D, antioxidants, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics. You may also benefit from a gluten-free and low-sugar diet. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to come up with a personalized nutrition plan that works for you.