When it comes to keeping the body working at its prime, the thyroid organ holds a crucial role. To optimize the function of your thyroid, incorporating certain foods in your diet – and excluding others – is a must. While no diet works for everyone, the same is true with a thyroid-supportive diet. In general, the better the quality of food ingested, the healthier the thyroid gland will be, as well as every other human gland, organ and cell within the body. We talk about the importance of beetroot in one’d diet as an effective way of keeping thyroid in control.
Beetroot belongs to the family of plants which also contains quinoa, spinach and Swiss chard. Beet contains various compounds in it, which are very beneficial for the human health. One of such compounds is phytonutrient, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities. These attributes make them effective for shrinking the enlarged thyroid, also known as a goiter. Such compounds are present not only in the root of beet but also its green part.
For the prevention of goiter, foods rich in iodine like kelp are recommended usually. Even though beetroot does not contain any iodine, it is still very effective for the treatment of goiter. This is because it contains phytonutrients like betalains in abundance. Vulgaxanthin and betanin are betalains present in beetroots, which have anti-inflammatory, detoxifying and anti-oxidant properties. These compounds suppress the functions of COX-2 and COX-1 enzymes which in turn lead to the reduction of swelling and inflammation in the body. That is why, consumption of beet can cure goiter caused by causes other than the deficiency of iodine.
It is important how you prepare beetroot. When beetroot is pulled out of the ground, do not chop off the root as juice will start to leak. Cutting the root off may also cause oxidizing reactions and so some of the enzymes can lose their effect. Quickly chop or grate beetroot with a juicer and then squeeze the juice from it. Drink it immediately, within ten minutes. Do not store it in the refrigerator, especially not for a long time. You can also squeeze the juice from its leaves, as leaves also contain much of the substances. The leaves contain a lot of chlorophyll, which also is one of the most powerful antioxidants. Although beets are efficacious for goiter, they cannot absolutely cure it. Betalains present in beets make them effective for the reduction of thyroid swelling. Do not cook beets in a microwave or at high heat, because excessive heat can destroy phytonutrients in it.
Therefore to achieve full benefits of beet, boil, steam or bake them lightly, without peeling them. After gentle cooking, skin can be easily rubbed off them. This method will help in preserving phytonutrients while cooking the beets. A thyroid diet is an important part of the treatment plan for those who suffer from thyroid dysfunction. Be sure to talk with your primary doctor or a registered dietician for more information when it comes to incorporating this type of eating style into your life.
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