Boost Thyroid Function Naturally With These Simple Methods

Work On Iron Intake

Iron is essential for the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Patients with thyroid disease often have an iron deficiency, and they are routinely advised to work on their iron intake. Before taking iron supplements or adding iron-rich foods to their diet, however, patients should always have a blood test to determine their iron levels. Excessive intake of iron in patients who are not deficient could have adverse health complications. If an iron deficiency is diagnosed in a patient with thyroid issues, patients may be prescribed iron supplements. These are normally taken twice a day, and the recommended dose for most individuals with a mild deficiency is no more than 120 milligrams of iron each day. Taking iron supplements with vitamin C can increase absorption. Patients who take iron supplements may experience constipation, diarrhea, and dark stools. In addition to supplementation, patients may wish to consider getting more iron from food. Foods rich in iron include fortified breakfast cereals, red meat, pork, poultry, eggs, and clams. Vegetarian foods such as chickpeas, lentils, dried fruit (particularly raisins, prunes, and apricots), pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds are also high in iron. Patients who have started iron supplements should have a second blood test within thirty to sixty days to recheck their iron levels.