Functional Medicine Thyroid Health

Here are some simple nutrient options for improving your thyroid health naturally:

 1. Iodine

The “4” of T4 represents four iodine molecules. The best iodine-rich foods are sea vegetables like dulse, kombu, nori, arame, and kelp.

2. Selenium

Selenium is essential to convert T4 to T3. Selenium also protects against autoimmune thyroid problems. The best sources of selenium include Brazil nuts and oysters.

3. Protein

Great sources of protein that can be easily absorbed and used by the body are wild-caught fish, grass-fed beef, and blue and green algae.

4. Vitamin B12

A great source of Vitamin B12 is grass-fed beef. Additionally, B12 can be found in egg yolk, salmon, and organ meats.

5. Magnesium

Dark, leafy greens like spinach and kale are good sources, as well as nuts and seeds.

6. Zinc

Grass-fed beef is the highest food source. Shellfish like lobster, mussels, and oysters also contain zinc. Nuts and seeds are good plant-based options.

7. Vitamin B2

The best sources for B2 are grass-fed liver and lamb. Mushrooms and greens can be good plant sources as well.

8. Vitamin C

Oranges and red peppers are the best foods to get your vitamin C.

9. Vitamin A

Grass-fed liver and tuna are the highest sources of true vitamin A, which is only found in animal meat. Sweet potatoes and carrots are good sources for the plant-based vitamin A precursor known as beta-carotene.

10. Vitamin D

The best food sources of vitamin D are fatty fish like salmon, beef liver, and egg yolks. Even more importantly: Get out in the sun whenever you can!