Short Answer: Brazil nuts are good for hyperthyroidism because they contain selenium, which can improve thyroid function, reduce inflammation, and lower antibodies.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects your thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ in your neck that produces hormones that regulate your metabolism.
In hyperthyroidism, your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which speeds up your body’s functions.
This can lead to various health problems, such as weight loss, anxiety, palpitations, insomnia, 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 selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, eggs, and seafood, and avoid iodine-rich foods like seaweed, dairy products, and iodized salt.
Now, Brazil nuts are large edible seeds that are native to South America.
They are known for their high selenium content, a mineral that is essential for thyroid health.
People usually eat Brazil nuts raw or roasted, or use them in recipes like salads, granola, and desserts.
Brazil nuts are good for hyperthyroidism because they contain selenium, which helps convert thyroid hormone from the inactive form (T4) to the active form (T3), and also protects the thyroid gland from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Selenium may also lower thyroid antibodies in people with autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Graves’ disease, the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
One ounce (28 grams) of Brazil nuts can give you about 767% of your daily selenium needs, as well as other nutrients like magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and vitamin E.
Selenium can positively affect hyperthyroidism by improving thyroid hormone metabolism, reducing thyroid inflammation, and lowering thyroid antibody levels.
Furthermore, Brazil nuts are a type of nut, and nuts are good for hyperthyroidism because they provide healthy fats, fiber, protein, and antioxidants that can support your heart health, blood sugar control, and immune system.
You can eat up to two Brazil nuts per day safely.
More than that can cause selenium toxicity, which can cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, hair loss, nail brittleness, and nerve damage.
Also, you shouldn’t eat Brazil nuts if you have a nut allergy, to prevent anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Because Brazil nuts can trigger an immune response in some people who are sensitive to nuts.
You can buy fresh Brazil nuts in your local market or can order them online.
Always choose organic, unsalted, and unshelled Brazil nuts, because they are less likely to be contaminated with pesticides, salt, or mold.
You can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months, or in the refrigerator for up to a year.
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.