It’s not a word you may have heard all too often, however, when you are diagnosed with issues with your thyroid, you’ll hear about them quiet quickly, and the sooner you will have to think of ways to avoid them.

Goitrogens are typically natural compounds that are found in certain food that interfere with the production of natural thyroid hormone. This could lead to the enlargement of one’s thyroid gland and later to goiter.

Metabolism and many everyday function of the body are controlled by the thyroid, so when the thyroid is healthy, goitrogens are fine, however, if the health of the thyroid is compromised, they have to be avoided.

These compunds do not allow your thyroid to produce the hormone that is required by your body for daily functions. They:
– Block the absorption of iodine in your thyroid.
– Reduce the effect of the regulatory hormone, that keeps a check on the amount of hormone made by the thyroid.

When the health of your thyroid is under attack, your body can face difficulty in controlling function like:
– Heart rate
– Body temperature
– Levels of calcium in your body
– Production of protein
– Utilization and absorption of fats and carbohydrates

Foods that include goitrogens include:
Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, spinach, kale, cauliflower and horseradish
Fruits like strawberries, pears and peaches
Starchy plants and vegetables like sweet potato, bamboo shoots, millet, linseed and cassava.
Soy, which include tofu, soy milk and edamame

Speak with a Registered Holistic Nutritionist to learn how you can eat well and maintain a healthy thyroid. You do not have to avoid goitrogens if your liver is working fine. Speak with a homeopath to learn how you can naturally keep your thyroid healthy.