Michael Greger: The Best Diet for Optimal Thyroid Function (webinar recording)

Key Takeaways

• Eat iodine-rich foods like seaweed, cranberries, and potatoes to support thyroid hormone production.
• Avoid soy and cruciferous vegetables raw (e.g., kale, broccoli) if you have hypothyroidism, as they may interfere with iodine uptake.
• Prioritize selenium sources (Brazil nuts, mushrooms) to aid in converting T4 to active T3 thyroid hormone.
• Get tested for thyroid antibodies if experiencing fatigue/weight gain despite normal TSH levels.

Supplements & Protocols Mentioned

• Iodine: 150 mcg daily (from food first).
• Selenium: 200 mcg daily (1-2 Brazil nuts provide this).
• Vitamin D: Maintain blood levels >30 ng/mL for thyroid support.

Bottom Line

Optimize thyroid function by focusing on iodine and selenium intake from whole foods, limit goitrogenic foods if hypothyroid, and test beyond standard TSH levels if symptoms persist.

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