More than 27 million Americans struggle with thyroid disease daily.
For those who do not know, the thyroid is a tiny gland in the neck that powers some of our body’s most important functions.
These functions include hormone production, which aids with metabolism and organ performance.
I have struggled with Hypothyroidism, where the thyroid produces too little hormones, for the past five years and have found that smoothies filled with nutrient-dense fruits and veggies are extremely beneficial in supporting thyroid health.
If you are struggling with a thyroid condition, here are some suggestions for the best smoothie ingredients that support thyroid health.
Bananas
Bananas should always be the first ingredient into your blender.
When frozen, bananas offer a certain sweetness and creaminess to your smoothie that no other fruit can provide.
Bananas also have been found to restore brain neurotransmitters that get damaged from thyroid disease and cause symptoms such as memory loss, fatigue or insomnia.
Make sure to try out bananas in your next smoothie.
Wild Blueberries
Wild blueberries pack an awesome antioxidant punch to the thyroid when consumed.
This small-but-mighty fruit has been found to provide micronutrients, repair thyroid tissue and flush toxic heavy metals and viral waste out of the body.
Luckily for those of us with Hypothyroidism, these blueberries have been found to increase hormone production in the thyroid.
My favorite brand is Wyman’s which is sold in the freezer section of most grocery stores.
Spirulina
Spirulina has become a trendy item in the eyes of the health food industry over the past few years.
By simply adding a teaspoon of this powdered form of algae to your smoothie, you ingest a massive boost of micronutrients and antioxidants with protective and restorative effects for the thyroid.
Spirulina has also been found to remove heavy metals harmful to the thyroid from the body.
Spirulina can be purchased online or at your local health food store.
Ginger
Ever had someone tell you to take a ginger shot when you’re sick?
Well, there is a reason for that.
Chinese Medicine has linked the root vegetable to healing thyroid issues because ginger contains curative nutrients such as magnesium and potassium.
Magnesium has been found to control thyroid disease symptoms and potassium helps decrease inflammation caused by thyroid issues.
Ginger also contains vitamin B-6, copper, manganese, and the antioxidant compound gingerol.
The infamous Dr. Oz has also stated that ginger can help to regulate the thyroid due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Brazil Nuts
I know, I know – nuts in my smoothie?
Have no fear!
Brazil nuts have been linked to disease-fighting attributes as they contain a large dose of the powerful nutrient, selenium.
Selenium is considered essential for thyroid function as it aids with hormone metabolism and reproduction, as well as infection and disease.
Considering our bodies do not naturally produce this nutrient, we have to source it from the foods we eat.
So try throwing one or two into your daily smoothie and maximise its health benefits.
by Emily Eldh
CougarBuzz 