Short Answer: Coconut is good for hyperthyroidism because it has MCTs and lauric acid, which can help regulate thyroid function and metabolism, and reduce inflammation and infection.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects your thyroid gland, which is located at the front of your neck.
In hyperthyroidism, your thyroid gland produces and releases too much thyroid hormone, which speeds up your metabolism and affects many functions in your body.
This can lead to various health problems, such as irregular heartbeat, weight loss, anxiety, and osteoporosis.
One of the key factors in managing hyperthyroidism is diet.
What you consume can affect your thyroid function, which can impact your hyperthyroidism symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage hyperthyroidism, you should consume foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, cruciferous vegetables, and vitamin D, and avoid foods rich in iodine, such as seaweed, dairy products, and iodized salt.
Now, coconut is the edible fruit of the coconut palm, which is commonly used for its water, milk, oil, and meat.
People usually eat the fresh or dried meat, drink the water or milk, or use the oil for cooking or cosmetics.
Coconut is good for hyperthyroidism because it contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of fat that can help regulate thyroid function and metabolism.
Coconut also contains lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and may help reduce thyroid inflammation and infection.
One cup (80 grams) of fresh coconut meat can give you 27 grams of fat (42% of your daily needs), 7.5 grams of fiber (30% of your daily needs), and 2.8 grams of protein (6% of your daily needs).
MCTs can positively affect hyperthyroidism by improving thyroid hormone production and conversion, enhancing energy expenditure, and reducing body weight and fat mass.
Lauric acid can positively affect hyperthyroidism by modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and fighting against bacteria and viruses that may trigger or worsen thyroid disorders.
Furthermore, coconut is a low-carb and high-fiber food, and low-carb and high-fiber diets are good for hyperthyroidism.
Because, they can help balance blood sugar levels, prevent insulin resistance, and reduce the risk of diabetes, which are common complications of hyperthyroidism.
You can eat up to one cup (80 grams) of fresh coconut meat per day safely.
More than that can cause digestive issues, such as diarrhea, bloating, and gas, due to the high amount of fat and fiber.
Also, you shouldn’t eat coconut if you have an allergy to it or any other tree nuts, to prevent anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.
Because, coconut is considered a tree nut by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may trigger a cross-reaction in some people.
You can buy fresh coconut in your local market or can order it online.
Always choose organic and unprocessed coconut, because they have higher nutritional value and lower chemical residues.
You can store them in a cool and dry place for up to six months.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and essential medical care, is key to managing hyperthyroidism effectively.
I always recommend my hyperthyroidism patients to follow a hyperthyroidism-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being and enjoy a longer and healthier life.