Short Answer: Peanuts are good for hyperthyroidism, except for people with Graves’ disease. Because they have protein, fiber, magnesium, and phytosterols, and they are low in iodine.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects your thyroid gland, which is located at the front of your neck.
In hyperthyroidism, your body produces and releases too much thyroid hormone, which speeds up your metabolism.
This can lead to various health problems, such as weight loss, irregular heartbeat, 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, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium, like berries, fish, walnuts, and cheese, and avoid foods rich in iodine, unhealthy fats, and high-glycemic carbs, like seaweed, red meat, sweets, and white bread.
Now, peanuts are legumes that are grown mainly for their edible seeds.
People usually eat them raw, roasted, boiled, or processed into peanut butter or oil.
Peanuts are good for hyperthyroidism because they contain protein, fiber, magnesium, and phytosterols, which are beneficial for your thyroid health.
Protein and fiber can help regulate your appetite and blood sugar levels, magnesium can support your thyroid function and prevent muscle weakness, and phytosterols can lower your cholesterol and reduce inflammation.
However, peanuts may not be suitable for people with Graves’ disease, a type of hyperthyroidism caused by an autoimmune disorder, because they may trigger an allergic reaction or worsen eye problems.
A handful of peanuts (28 grams) can give you 7 grams of protein (14% of your daily needs), 2 grams of fiber (8% of your daily needs), 48 milligrams of magnesium (12% of your daily needs), and 62 milligrams of phytosterols (18% of your daily needs).
Protein can help maintain your muscle mass and prevent weight loss, which are common complications of hyperthyroidism.
Fiber can help lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which may be elevated due to hyperthyroidism.
Magnesium can help regulate your thyroid hormone production and prevent muscle cramps and tremors, which are symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Phytosterols can help reduce the inflammation and oxidative stress caused by hyperthyroidism, and lower your risk of heart disease.
Furthermore, peanuts are a low-iodine food and low-iodine foods are good for hyperthyroidism.
Because, iodine is a mineral that is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, but too much iodine can worsen hyperthyroidism and interfere with the treatment.
You can eat a handful of peanuts per day safely.
More than that can cause digestive issues, weight gain, and allergic reactions.
Also, you shouldn’t eat peanuts if you have Graves’ disease to prevent eye complications and anaphylaxis.
Because, peanuts are a common allergen and may trigger an immune response that can affect your eyes and other organs.
You can buy fresh peanuts in your local market or can order them online.
Always choose organic, unsalted, and unflavored peanuts.
Because, organic peanuts are free of pesticides and chemicals, unsalted peanuts are better for your blood pressure and heart health, and unflavored peanuts are lower in calories and additives.
You can store them in an airtight container in a cool and dry place for up to six months.
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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.
