Hypothyroidism can
be a tricky condition to manage, and what you eat can interfere with your
treatment. Some nutrients heavily influence the function of the thyroid gland,
and certain foods can inhibit your body's ability to absorb the replacement
hormones you may take as part of your thyroid treatment. There's no such thing
as a "hypothyroidism diet" that will make you well, but eating smart
can help you feel better despite the condition. Here are some foods and supplements to limit or
avoid as you manage hypothyroidism:
Soy: Studies suggest that phytoestrogens in soybeans and soy-rich
foods may inhibit the activity of
an enzyme that makes the thyroid hormones. One study found that women who consumed soy supplements were
three times more likely to develop hypothyroidism.
Iodine-rich foods: Some forms of hypothyroidism are caused by a lack of sufficient
iodine. In such cases, using iodized salt or iodine-enriched foods can be
beneficial. But eating too much iodine can have the opposite effect and
suppress thyroid gland activity. Check with your doctor before taking
supplements.
Iron and calcium supplements: Taking iron or calcium supplements can also change the effectiveness
of many thyroid medications.
High-fiber foods: Although a high-fiber diet is usually recommended, too much
fiber may interfere with the absorption of thyroid medicines.
Certain vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables that are rich in fiber like broccoli,
cabbage, spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts can inhibit thyroid drug
absorption. Reducing the amounts of such produce in your diet may help to control tsh levels.
Caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol can also influence the
effectiveness of thyroid medicine. Ask your doctor for tips on how to regulate
or reduce your consumption.
Antioxidant-rich fruits and
vegetables: Blueberries, tomatoes, bell
peppers, and other foods rich in antioxidants can improve overall health and
benefit the thyroid gland. Eating foods high in B vitamins, like whole grains,
may also help.
Selenium: Tiny amounts of selenium are needed for enzymes that make
thyroid hormones to work properly. Eating selenium-rich foods, such as
sunflower seeds or Brazil nuts, can be beneficial.
· Tyrosine: This amino acid is used by the thyroid gland to produce T3 and
T4. Taking a supplement may help, but ask your doctor beforehand.
Diet Plans and Herbal Supplements:Hypothyroidism doesn’t prevent or limit you from following a
certain health lifestyle. People with hypothyroidism can choose to be
vegetarian, eat protein-rich foods, or avoid allergy-causing ingredients.
You may also decide to use
alternative medicines. Some plant extracts, like ashwagandha (Withania somnifera),
coleus (Coleus
forskohlii), gotu kola (Centella asiatica), and guggul (Commiphora mukul)
have been suggested to benefit some symptoms of hypothyroidism. But evidence to
support these claims are limited. Always speak with your doctor before making
any big changes.NEVER SKIP MEAL IN HYPOTHYROIDSM. PERSON WITH EMPTY STOMACH FOR MORE THAN 4 HRS MAY LEAD TO OBESITY.
