Short Answer: Sesame seeds are good for hyperthyroidism because they have lignans, phytosterols, copper, magnesium, calcium, zinc, healthy fats, and protein, and they can lower cholesterol, support thyroid function, and prevent complications.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects your thyroid gland, which is a small, butterfly-shaped organ at the base of your neck.
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate your metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and other vital functions.
In hyperthyroidism, your thyroid gland makes and releases too much thyroid hormone, which can speed up your metabolism and cause various health problems, such as weight loss, nervousness, anxiety, tremor, irregular heartbeat, sweating, and eye problems.
One of the key factors in managing hyperthyroidism is diet.
What you consume can affect your thyroid function, which can impact your hyperthyroidism symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage hyperthyroidism, you should consume iodine-rich foods like seafood, dairy products, and iodized salt, and avoid goitrogenic foods like cruciferous vegetables, soy products, and millet.
Iodine is an essential nutrient for thyroid hormone production, while goitrogens are substances that can interfere with thyroid function and worsen hyperthyroidism.
Now, sesame seeds are small, oil-rich seeds that are commonly used as a spice, condiment, or ingredient in various cuisines.
People usually eat sesame seeds raw, roasted, or ground into a paste called tahini.
Sesame seeds are good for hyperthyroidism because they contain lignans and phytosterols, which are plant compounds that can help lower cholesterol and triglycerides, which are risk factors for heart disease.
Sesame seeds also contain copper, magnesium, calcium, and zinc, which are minerals that support thyroid health and prevent deficiencies.
Three tablespoons (30 grams) of sesame seeds can give you 12% of the RDI for fiber, 25% of the RDI for copper, 31% of the RDI for magnesium, 22% of the RDI for calcium, and 20% of the RDI for zinc.
Lignans can reduce the absorption of cholesterol and bile acids in the intestine, which can lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent plaque formation in the arteries.
Phytosterols can block the absorption of cholesterol from food and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Copper can help regulate thyroid hormone levels and prevent hyperthyroidism-induced anemia.
Magnesium can help regulate muscle and nerve function and prevent hyperthyroidism-related tremors, palpitations, and insomnia.
Calcium can help maintain bone health and prevent hyperthyroidism-induced osteoporosis.
Zinc can help modulate thyroid hormone receptors and prevent hyperthyroidism-induced hair loss, skin problems, and immune dysfunction.
Furthermore, sesame seeds are a source of healthy fats and protein, and both are beneficial for hyperthyroidism.
Healthy fats can help lower inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common in hyperthyroidism.
Protein can help preserve muscle mass and prevent hyperthyroidism-induced weight loss and weakness.
You can eat up to three tablespoons (30 grams) of sesame seeds per day safely.
More than that can cause digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, due to the high fiber and fat content.
Also, you shouldn’t eat sesame seeds if you are allergic to them, as they can cause severe reactions, such as hives, swelling, and anaphylaxis.
You can buy fresh or roasted sesame seeds in your local market or online.
Always choose organic and unprocessed sesame seeds, as they are free of pesticides and additives.
You can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months, or in the refrigerator for up to a year.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and essential medical care, is key to managing hyperthyroidism effectively.
I always recommend my hyperthyroidism patients to follow a hyperthyroidism-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being and enjoy a longer and healthier life.