Thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in our neck that plays a critical part in the body's healthy functioning. It produces T4 (thyroxine) and T3 hormones, which aid in maintaining a healthy heart rate, respiration, digestion, and body temperature. Thyroid dysfunction can have a variety of consequences for you. Here are some foods for thyroid patients.

Saffron 

Saffron that has been soaked overnight and ingested first thing in the morning effectively regulates mood swings in people with thyroid problems. It relieves stomach cramps or PMS and is a promising anti-obesity superfood, as patients with thyroid disorders tend to gain weight in the majority of cases. The ideal way to consume it is to combine it with homemade Kesari bath or Vegetable Upma to obtain the majority of the amino acids. Before retiring to bed, drink a glass of saffron milk, which will provide you with a healthy dosage of calcium and protein.

Bananas

Bananas are a superfood that has virtually little waste. It can be eaten raw or cooked as a sambar, curry, raita, or sabzi. It is a naturally rich source of iodin, as a result, eating a banana every day keeps thyroid problems at bay.

Horse gram 

Horse gram is a widely produced crop in South India and a few Eastern regions such as Chhattisgarh and Bihar. It is commonly consumed in the form of dal and is high in protein, iron, and zinc, all of which aid in the natural conversion of inactive T4 to active T3 to produce TSH, which aids in thyroid function. As a result, at least twice a week, incorporate it in the form of rasam/dal/soup.

Baked Fish

Even baked fish is high in selenium and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to your thyroid. When used in moderation (once or twice a week, preferably not at night), it provides the optimal amino acid profile and minerals for a healthy thyroid.

Whole grains

Whole grains are high in iodine, copper, magnesium, and B vitamins, all of which help you maintain a steady level of energy throughout the day. Thus, when eaten with traditionally cooked sambar/rasam/dal/sabzi/fresh seafood, single polished/hand pound rice or whole wheat atta provides the best combination of protein, fibre, and selenium, resulting in a balanced thyroid.

Khichdi/pongal

The health of your gut determines how healthy your thyroid can be. T4 (inactive form) is converted to T3 (active form) in the gut, and any imbalance in gut flora (called dysbiosis) causes constipation/bloating or gastric difficulties, interrupting your metabolic rate. In order to maintain your gut healthy and active, eat Khichdi/Pongal at least twice a week.