How can one maintain good thyroid health?

Support thyroid health by getting adequate iodine and selenium, eating a balanced diet, and checking thyroid levels when there are concerns about dysfunction.

1. Iodine and selenium: Iodine is found in iodized table salt, sea salt, kelp, and seaweed. Selenium sources include Brazil nuts, fish, and eggs; avoid excessive selenium intake, particularly when combining supplements with selenium-rich foods. 1 2
2. Dietary patterns: Plant-heavy diets and meat-heavy diets can both leave iodine intake low, depending on food choices and whether iodized salt or sea foods are included. Keep iodine intake in mind when following either pattern. 3
3. Cruciferous vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables contain goitrogens, which can increase the amount of iodine needed. Balance their intake with adequate iodine rather than treating these vegetables as inherently harmful. 4
4. Blood testing and medical advice: Thyroid hormone levels can be measured in blood. If you are concerned about high or low thyroid levels, discuss symptoms and testing with a physician. 5
5. Personalized guidance: Consult a doctor before supplementing iodine or selenium or otherwise trying to manipulate thyroid levels; needs and appropriate intake can vary. 6 7