How a Dietitian Can Support Thyroid Health
- jesskelly
- Jan 13
- 3 min read
The thyroid plays a central role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, heart rate, digestion, and even mood.
When thyroid function is disrupted, it can affect nearly every system in the body.
At Nutrition That Heals, we work with many clients navigating thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Graves’ disease.
While medication is often essential, nutrition is a key piece of comprehensive thyroid care and can significantly influence how someone feels day to day.
Understanding the Thyroid's Role
The thyroid produces hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate how the body uses energy. When thyroid hormone levels are too low or too high, people may experience symptoms such as:
Fatigue or low energy
Weight changes
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Hair thinning or dry skin
Sensitivity to cold or heat
Digestive changes
Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
Because these symptoms overlap with many other conditions, thyroid disorders are often underdiagnosed or misunderstood.
How Nutrition Supports Thyroid Function
Nutrition cannot replace medical treatment, but it can support thyroid hormone production, conversion, and overall metabolic health. A dietitian can help ensure you are getting the nutrients your thyroid needs while also addressing symptoms that often accompany thyroid disorders.
Key Nutrients for Thyroid Health
Iodine – Essential for thyroid hormone production (found in iodized salt, dairy, seafood)
Selenium – Supports hormone conversion and reduces inflammation (found in Brazil nuts, eggs, tuna, sunflower seeds)
Zinc – Involved in hormone synthesis and immune function (found in meat, pumpkin seeds, legumes)
Iron – Low levels can impair thyroid function (found in red meat, lentils, spinach)
Protein – Supports metabolism, blood sugar stability, and energy
A dietitian can help identify gaps and provide safe, food-first strategies without over-supplementation.
Managing Common Symptoms Through Nutrition
Many people with thyroid conditions struggle with fatigue, weight changes, blood sugar swings, digestive issues, and inflammation. Nutrition therapy can help by:
Supporting stable blood sugar to reduce energy crashes
Encouraging anti-inflammatory foods to help manage autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s
Improving gut health, which plays a role in immune and hormone regulation
Ensuring adequate calories and protein to support metabolism
Helping with meal timing and balance to support energy and mood
Importantly, nutrition care is individualized. What works well for one person may not work for another, which is why we customize our approach for each individual.
Thyroid Weight Is Not Just About Weight
One of the most frustrating experiences for people with thyroid disorders is being told that weight changes are the main issue. In reality, thyroid conditions affect far more than weight, and focusing solely on the scale can overlook fatigue, brain fog, mood, and quality of life.
Our approach is weight-inclusive, compassionate, and focused on overall health. We aim to help clients feel stronger, more energized, and more supported in their bodies.
How a Dietitian Can Help
Working with a registered dietitian can help you:
Understand how your thyroid condition affects your nutritional needs
Build meals that support energy, digestion, and hormone balance
Navigate food sensitivities, appetite changes, or GI symptoms
Avoid unnecessary food restrictions that can worsen fatigue or stress
Coordinate care with your physician or endocrinologist
We believe in collaborative care and are happy to work alongside your medical team!
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone
Living with a thyroid condition can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms fluctuate or answers feel unclear. Nutrition is not a cure, but it is a powerful tool in helping your body function as well as possible.
January is Thyroid Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of thyroid health and the many ways this small but powerful gland impacts the entire body.
This Thyroid Awareness Month, we encourage you to prioritize your health, ask questions, and seek support. If you are struggling with thyroid-related symptoms or want guidance on how nutrition can support your treatment plan, our team is here to help.
Comments