Foods to be avoided in Hypothyroidism

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a common hormonal disorder found nowadays. It is also called underactive thyroid.  There is insufficient production of thyroid hormones which can cause symptoms like fatigue, intolerance to cold, weight gain, and delayed intellectual development in children.

There is a common concern among patients suffering from an underactive thyroid – what hypothyroidism diet should I follow? What to eat? What to delete from their diet?

There are certain foods that are not to be consumed in excess by a patient having an underactive thyroid. You need to avoid them if,

• You are already undergoing treatment for hypothyroidism
• You are recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism
• You have a strong family history of hypothyroidism (You may be prone to get it)
• If you are having any one symptom of hypothyroidism and you are suspecting the same.

Foods to be avoided in Hypothyroidism

Your daily diet may contain certain foodstuffs that may inhibit thyroid hormone absorption or inhibit thyroid hormone production itself. These substances are called goitrogenic agents, which means that they tend to stimulate the formation of goiter (swelling of the thyroid gland).

• Cruciferous vegetables – Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, radish, turnips, spinach, mustard greens, and Brussels sprouts should be restricted, especially in the raw form.
• Gluten – Gluten is a protein that is found in rye, barley, and wheat. Limited gluten consumption is advised especially in those who suffer from celiac disease. Regular consumption may block the thyroid gland’s ability to absorb iodine.
• Iodine – Yes, Hypothyroidism can be caused both due to excess or insufficient iodine intake. Hence, do not exceed the normal amount of iodine (i.e., 1.1mg 3 teaspoons) per day.
• Soya, soybean oil, or certain chocolates containing soya can be problematic especially if your iodine intake is insufficient.

Most Hypothyroidism patients complain of weight gain and difficulty in reducing their weight despite exercise. In order to achieve better weight control, the following foodstuffs should be eaten in moderation:

• Sugary foods – Cookies, pastries, whipped cream, cakes, doughnuts, and desserts should be had in moderation.
• Fatty food – Excessive consumption of fatty foods like cheese, butter, fried foods, and margarine should be avoided.
• Processed foods – Canned fruits, juices, packed foods, and ready-to-cook meals to be completely stopped as they are not good for the overall well-being of an individual.

If you are on external thyroid hormone supplementation, you should be aware that certain other medications may hamper the absorption of your thyroid supplements:

• Medications- Too much and frequent intake of Iron, calcium supplements, antacids, and certain multivitamins may affect the absorption of thyroid medicines.
• Excess fiber- Daily fiber intake is recommended but excess fibrous foods may hinder the absorption of thyroid medications.

A slight change in your diet by avoiding these foods can enhance and speed your recovery from hypothyroidism. When it comes to healthy foods like soya preparations, spinach, etc you may not be aware that though they are healthy, it is not healthy for you.

You may be very particular and regular in taking your thyroid medications but after a while, you may realize that they are not helping in any way. In such cases, go back and check your diet which you consumed in the past few months. An evaluation of the same may give a fair idea of what you can change in your diet.

So, while there is no “Hypothyroidism diet” as such, be alert whenever you go to any party or eat on a weekend. Remember; Eat Right To Make Your Thyroid Right! For more information on how your underactive thyroid can be treated, get in touch with us at LifeForce Homoeopathy.