A person with hypothyroidism is going to make sure they are getting adequate iodine, selenium, and zinc in their diet. Iodine is essential in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are crucial for a healthy thyroid. Selenium helps with the activation of the thyroid hormones so they can readily be used by the body. Zinc activates the thyroid hormones as well, but also helps the body regulate TSH, the hormone that signals to the thyroid gland to release the thyroid hormones.