ALL THE INFO
NUTRITION
I believe in using food as a fuel and to help heal the body naturally. Below are some resources and tips, based on research done for family members, according to a variety of nutritional needs.
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*Note: I am not a certified dietitian, doctor, or nutritionist and always recommend that you talk to your doctor about any changes made to your daily regimens.
I think it's important to also recognize that not everyone can afford to see a doctor and hope that some of these resources can help to point you in the right direction!
DIABETES
*Knowledge is power*
RESEARCH YOUR CONDITION
My first tip of advice is to learn what you can about your condition.
Try not to get discouraged when you come across conflicting information on the website. Everybody's body is different, so a big part of this is finding our what works for you.
It's always a good idea to run any major dietary changes and supplements by your doctor, if you have one. They can also offer you informational material.
Here are a few reputable sources to get you started:
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
SUGAR
Check the ingredients list.
This includes foods with added ADDED sugar, incl. sugar, cane sugar, corn syrup, maple syrup, agave.
Note: sugar often hides in things like dried fruits, salad dressings, condiments, doughs, milks, sauces, yogurts, beverages, coffee creamers, jam/jelly, so always check the label!
Sugars that occur naturally in fruit and vegetables are OK, so long as they are eaten in moderation. Note: fruit also naturally has fiber that helps your body to break down those sugars. Fruit juices, however, don't have that fiber and should be avoided.
Your overall daily sugar intake should not exceed 25g.
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
HIGH-GLYCEMIC FRUITS
Foods high on the glycemic index (GI) are ones that are quickly digested and may cause spikes in your blood sugar and should be avoided.
This includes some fruits, such as Watermelon, mango, pineapple, grapes, canned and dried fruits.
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
RED AND PROCESSED MEATS
Eating red meat, such as beef, pork, and lamb, may increase the risk of diabetes, even at low levels of consumption. Processed meats are bad for both diabetes and thyroid function.
HASHIMOTO'S DISEASE
*Knowledge is power*
RESEARCH YOUR CONDITION
My first tip of advice is to learn what you can about your condition.
Try not to get discouraged when you come across conflicting information on the website. Everybody's body is different, so a big part of this is finding our what works for you.
It's always a good idea to run any major dietary changes and supplements by your doctor, if you have one. They can also offer you informational material.
Here are a few reputable sources to get you started:
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
GLUTEN
Check the ingredients list.
Gluten is a substance found in wheat, barley, and rye.
It's often found in breaded / battered foods, most cereals, pasta, bread, bagels, pretzels, tortillas, baked goods like muffins, cake, donuts, anything made with (AP/wheat) flour
The protein structure of gluten is similar to that of the thyroid, so your body may go on the attack when gluten is consumed and trigger inflammatory reactions.
Important to note: everyone is different, eliminating gluten entirely has had mixed results. You may opt to try an elimination diet first to see what your body responds to. Listen to your body and your own personal experience.
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
DAIRY
This includes anything made from milk, like cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream, cottage cheese, sour cream, etc.
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
RED AND PROCESSED MEATS
Eating red meat, such as beef, pork, and lamb, may increase the risk of diabetes, even at low levels of consumption. Processed meats are bad for both diabetes and thyroid function.
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
SOY
This includes all soy and soy-derived products, such as soy sauce, miso, edamame, tofu, soybean oil
Why? While soy may be helpful for diabetes, it can hinder thyroid function. Some studies have shown that consuming soybeans may block iodide uptake and prevent zinc from functioning, both of which are vital to T3 and T4 production.
Additionally, soy may interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication for some individuals.
*FOODS TO LIMIT / AVOID*
NIGHTSHADE VEGETABLES
This may include: tomatoes, potatoes (except sweet) and potato products such as french fries and potato chips, eggplants, pimentos, ALL peppers (bell, jalapeño, paprika, chili, etc.) in any form, including spices and spice mixes.
Note: Nightshades may also HIDE in other foods in the form of potato starch and/or seasoning (ex: gluten-free bread, crusts, crackers, baked goods, some soups, products with thickeners, Mexican food, sausages, anything spicy, some broths, seasoning blends, sauces)
Always check your ingredients labels!