What changes do I need to make in my food if I have a thyroid problem?

The production of thyroid hormone needs tyrosine (that’s a part of protein) and iodine. Iodine is naturally available in sea vegetables, fish. Vitamins A and D are critical in activating the thyroid receptor and making your thyroid hormone turn on the genes that improve your metabolism. Green leafy vegetables, carrots, chicken liver provide vitamin A. There are very few food sources of vitamin D, such as mackerel, walnuts and fortified foods. Sunlight can help your body produce vitamin D but that too is most of the times insufficient. Zinc is beneficial for improving thyroid balance and its function. Zinc is available in cashews, egg yolk, chicken, lamb. Omega 3 supplements will also help with better functioning of the thyroid hormone. Salmon, herring, walnuts, flaxseeds have omega 3. Certain foods disrupt normal functioning of thyroid. Gluten causes inflammation that slows down thyroid function. Sugar makes a chronic inflammatory disease worse.

What can I do to improve my immunity levels during these stressful times?

There are lots of great supplements that help with strengthening our immune system. You can stick to a good multivitamin but if you want a little bit of an extra boost then:

1. Take vitamin C. It’s one of the biggest immune system boosters of all.

2. Vitamin B6 is vital in supporting biochemical reactions in the immune system.

3. Resveratrol is a great antioxidant and improves the body’s immune response to infections. However, if you’re on any anti-coagulants or blood thinners, you should skip this one as it slows down blood clotting. People with hormone-sensitive conditions too should not take resveratrol because it has phytoestrogens. Those having regular medicines should check with their doctor for any contraindications.

4. Milk thistle helps to reduce inflammation and lower the allergic reaction. It naturally lowers sugars, so if you’re on diabetes medicines, consult your doctor before you take this. Pregnant women should not take it.