Short Answer: Flaxseed is good for hyperthyroidism. Because it has lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber, and they can reduce the thyroid hormone levels, lower the blood pressure and cholesterol, and regulate the blood sugar and digestion.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects your thyroid gland, which is located in your neck.
In hyperthyroidism, your body produces too much thyroid hormone, which regulates your metabolism and other bodily functions.
This can lead to various health problems, such as weight loss, anxiety, insomnia, heart palpitations, 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 calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidants, like dairy products, leafy greens, and berries, and avoid foods rich in iodine, caffeine, and goitrogens, like seaweed, coffee, and soy.
Now, flaxseed is a type of seed that comes from the flax plant.
People usually eat flaxseed by grinding it and adding it to cereals, smoothies, salads, or baked goods.
Flaxseed is good for hyperthyroidism because it contains lignans, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber.
Lignans are phytoestrogens that can help to balance the hormones and reduce the inflammation caused by hyperthyroidism.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that can help to lower the blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and protect the heart from the effects of hyperthyroidism.
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that can help to regulate the blood sugar and digestion, and prevent constipation and diarrhea that may occur with hyperthyroidism.
One tablespoon of flaxseed can give you about 2 grams of lignans, 1.8 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, and 3 grams of fiber, which are 67%, 90%, and 12% of your daily needs, respectively.
Lignans can positively affect hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production and activity of thyroid hormones, thus reducing the symptoms and complications of the condition.
Omega-3 fatty acids can positively affect hyperthyroidism by improving the cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of arrhythmias, hypertension, and atherosclerosis that may result from hyperthyroidism.
Fiber can positively affect hyperthyroidism by stabilizing the blood glucose and enhancing the bowel movements, thus preventing the metabolic and digestive disorders that may accompany hyperthyroidism.
Furthermore, flaxseed is a plant-based food and plant-based foods are good for hyperthyroidism.
Because, they are low in calories, fat, and cholesterol, and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help to maintain a healthy weight, lower the inflammation, and boost the immune system.
You can eat one to two tablespoons of flaxseed per day safely.
More than that can cause bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and allergic reactions.
Also, you shouldn’t eat flaxseed if you have or are suffering from a bleeding disorder, a hormone-sensitive condition, or a bowel obstruction, to prevent excessive bleeding, hormonal imbalance, or intestinal blockage.
Because, flaxseed can thin the blood, mimic estrogen, and swell in the gut.
You can buy fresh flaxseed in your local market or can order it from online.
Always choose organic, whole, and brown flaxseed.
Because, they are free of pesticides, more nutritious, and less rancid than non-organic, ground, or golden flaxseed.
You can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place for up to a year.
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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.
