Nutrition And Diet For Thyroid And Diabetes Troubles

By | January 20, 2009

Diet For Hypothyroidism And Diabetes Nutrition

I am thyroid patient and my weight has increased considerably in last two years. Is it due to the medicines prescribed for control of diabetes or is there any other reason?  Please recommend healthy diet

Thyroid disease is a result of inadequate hormone (thyroid) levels, treatment of hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer or nodules and iodine deficiency disorder. Heredity plays a vital role in thyroid related diseases. Weight gain is one of the symptoms, associated with thyroid disease. Other symptoms of thyroid problems are high cholesterol, dry hair, anemia, constipation, infertility, depression, deafness and so on. Dietary modifications require the restricted intake of goitrogens, which are substances, inherent in food. They oppose or obstruct with the functioning of the gland and secretion of the hormone. Cruciferous vegetables like mustard, broccoli, cabbage, mustard and turnips and soy products are not recommended. Certain other foods with goitrogen are spinach, broccoli, mustard, peach, soy tofu, peanut, millet and strawberries. Iodine containing foods are avoided by individuals with hypothyroidism, such as shellfish, multivitamins, dairy products, processed foods and metabolic boosters.

Healthy Diet For Diabetes And Thyroid

Diabetes is associated with thyroid problems. Insulin resistance is related to thyroid diseases. High protein and low carbohydrate diet is generally recommended. A balance in the intake of fiber, carbohydrate, fat and protein is provided by such kind of meals. This in turn results in a moderate rise in the blood glucose level, due to a gradual entry of glucose in the bloodstream. This process regulates the quantity of insulin release, which causes a decrease in the calorie storage. The calories, which are taken in are put to use. Decrease the intake of certain foods, such as bagels, white bread, refined foods, rolls, beets, corn, parsnips, peas, carrots, potatoes, turnips, oranges, grapes, pineapple, papaya, bananas and watermelon. White rice, sugar, semolina and baked goods are a complete ‘no-no’, in case of thyroid disease and diabetes.

Diabetic condition calls for the intake of several small meals, instead of the regular three meal pattern. About five to six small meals help in the prevention of sudden rise in the blood glucose levels. It also protects the individual form sudden hypoglycemic shocks. Lean protein in the form of white meat poultry, lean cuts of beef and fish are preferred. Hair loss, a common problem associated with thyroid disease is decreased with protein intake. About 25 grams of dietary fiber is recommended on a daily basis. Fiber is a complex carbohydrate, which helps in the required insulin production. Certain foods, which are rich in fiber, such as apples, lentils, cauliflower, whole grains, almonds, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, kidney beans and pears are beneficial. A multi vitamin supplement, especially with selenium and zinc proves effective.