Short Answer: Prunes are good for hypothyroidism. Because they have antioxidants, fiber, and minerals that can support thyroid health and prevent constipation, bone loss, anemia, and heart problems.
Hypothyroidism is a condition that affects your thyroid gland, which is located in the front of your neck.
In hypothyroidism, your body does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which regulate your metabolism and many other functions.
This can lead to various health problems, such as fatigue, weight gain, high cholesterol, depression, and heart disease.
One of the key factors in managing hypothyroidism is diet.
What you consume can affect your thyroid function, which can impact your hypothyroidism symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage hypothyroidism, you should consume iodine-rich foods like seafood, dairy products, and eggs, and avoid goitrogenic foods like cruciferous vegetables, soy, and millet.
Now, prunes are dried plums that have a chewy texture and a sweet-sour flavor.
People usually eat them as a snack or add them to desserts, salads, or cereals.
Prunes are good for hypothyroidism because they contain antioxidants, fiber, and minerals that can support thyroid health and prevent constipation, which is a common symptom of hypothyroidism.
One serving of five prunes can give you about 104 calories, 3 grams of fiber, 280 milligrams of potassium, 43 milligrams of calcium, 0.93 milligrams of iron, and 59.5 micrograms of vitamin K6.
Antioxidants can protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can impair its function and lead to autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the most common cause of hypothyroidism.
Fiber can help regulate bowel movements and lower cholesterol levels, which can be elevated in hypothyroidism and increase the risk of heart disease.
Potassium can help maintain normal blood pressure and heart rhythm, which can be affected by hypothyroidism.
Calcium and vitamin K can help prevent bone loss and fractures, which can occur due to low thyroid hormone levels and reduced absorption of calcium.
Iron can help prevent anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and pale skin in hypothyroidism.
Furthermore, prunes are a fruit and fruits are good for hypothyroidism.
Because, they provide natural sugars, vitamins, and phytochemicals that can boost your energy, immunity, and mood.
You can eat up to 10 prunes per day safely.
More than that can cause diarrhea, bloating, and gas due to the high sorbitol and fiber content.
Also, you shouldn’t eat prunes if you have diabetes or kidney disease to prevent high blood sugar and potassium levels.
Because, prunes are high in natural sugars and potassium, which can worsen these conditions.
You can buy fresh plums or dried prunes in your local market or can order them online.
Always choose organic, unsulfured, and unsweetened varieties.
Because, they are free of pesticides, preservatives, and added sugars, which can harm your thyroid and overall health.
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 hypothyroidism effectively.
I always recommend my hypothyroidism patients to follow a hypothyroidism-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.