Foods to Avoid if Diagnosed with Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Ragiinii Sharma
Written By Dr Divya Rohra
on Feb 14, 2022
Last Edit Made By Dr Divya Rohra
on May 7, 2024
Foods to avoid if diagnosed with hypothyroidism:
Soy-containing foods:
According to studies, soy-rich foods can alter and affect the body's ability to absorb thyroid medication properly. Goitrogens have also been discovered in soy-based food products, which can cause thyroid gland irritation. Goitrogens are a type of compound that causes the thyroid gland to swell (goitre). Consumption of goitrogens can aggravate hypothyroidism. To manage hypothyroidism, people should actively reduce their consumption of soy-based foods. The following foods should be avoided:
- Soya chunks
- Tofu
- Soy milk
Cruciferous vegetables:
While some vegetables are good for health, certain cruciferous vegetables are high in goitrogens. Avoid eating broccoli, spinach, cabbage and cauliflower if you are diagnosed with thyroid problems
Fried or fatty foods
Excessively fried food contains fat that can interfere with the body's ability to absorb thyroid hormone replacement medication. Fats can also impair the thyroid's ability to produce the hormone thyroxine. Furthermore, fatty foods that are high in calories can be challenging to digest for people who have a slow metabolism. In hypothyroidism, this can lead to excessive weight gain. Excessively fatty foods, such as butter, mayonnaise, margarine, and other fried foods, should be avoided.
Foods high in fibre
Fibrous foods such as beans, legumes, and vegetables, can cause excessive complications in hypothyroid patients. A high-fibre diet, such as green legumes and whole grains, can interfere with normal digestive system functions and the body's ability to absorb hypothyroidism medication. As a result, foods like whole green bean legumes should be avoided or reduced.
Inflammatory food to avoid hypothyroidism
Several foods are considered inflammatory in Hyperthyroidism. Excessive consumption of these foods can result in thyroid gland inflammation and worsen the condition.
These include:
- Some fruits, such as strawberry, peaches,
- Starchy food, such as sweet potato and cassava
- Foods high in sugar or have a high glycemic index: can lead to spiked blood sugar levels and inflammation.
Nuts to be avoided with hypothyroidism
People who have hypothyroidism should avoid eating a lot of nuts like millets, peanuts, or pine nuts.
Along with these, some more foods to avoid include:
- Coffee
- Canned/packaged food
- Food that is highly processed
- Alcohol
- Green tea
- Supplements for health
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Food to avoid with Hypothyroidism: Summary
Soy rich foods | Tofu, soya chunks, soy milk |
Cruciferous vegetables | Cabbage, spinach, cauliflower |
Nuts | Pine nuts, pearl millets, peanuts |
Caffeine rich products | Coffee, black coffee, green tea |
Fried/fatty foods | Butter, red meat, fried food |
Supplements | Vitamin or herbal |
Dealing with hypothyroidism can be difficult, but the symptoms can be managed with smart eating and a proper diet.
Foods to avoid of diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism:
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the body produces too much thyroid hormone. Diet plays a crucial role in producing and using thyroid hormones in the body.
So what are some of the foods that need to be avoided if I have Hyperthyroidism?
Food that contains excess Iodine
Iodine is a central component of the thyroid hormone. Consuming excessive iodine with your food can cause increased production of thyroid hormone and worsen your condition. Avoid eating:
- Excessive ionised salt.
- Kelp
- External iodine supplements
- Fish and seaweed
- Egg yolk since it contains excessive Iodine.
Soy-rich foods
Soy-rich foods are typically detrimental to the overactive thyroid gland. Soy milk, soy sauce, soybean oil, tofu, and edamame are all examples.
Caffeine
Caffeine consumption might increase hyperthyroidism symptoms. Caffeine can cause an increase in heart rate and palpitations. Caffeine might exacerbate anxiety and insomnia symptoms. When diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism, try to avoid coffee, sugar drinks and other caffeinated stimulants. Refrain or reduce the consumption of chocolate, energy drinks, soda, black tea, and coffee.
Foods with added sugar
Too much sugar is bad for the body as it causes a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. An elevated blood sugar level can produce palpitations and an increase in heart rate. Soft drinks, pancake syrup, jelly, and cakes are packaged foods. This product contains added sugars such as dextrose, fructose, and corn syrup. Foods with added sugar are often empty calories that aggravate hyperthyroidism symptoms.
Gluten
A gluten-rich diet is hypoglycemic, disrupting normal blood sugar levels. Food products such as pasta, rice, and bread include gluten, which is difficult to digest and activate hyperthyroidism symptoms. Gluten can also trigger thyroid inflammatory responses.
Avoid dairy and whole milk
Dairy products are often high in Iodine, which is harmful to those with Hyperthyroidism. Avoid consuming excessive milk, cheese, egg yolks, and other dairy products.
Alcohol
consumption can be harmful to the thyroid glands and impairs the body's general capacity to use and absorb thyroid hormones.
Food to avoid with Hyperthyroidism: summary
Iodine rich Foods | Egg yolk, iodinated salts, seaweed, fish, kelp |
Soy-based foods | Miso, soy milk, beans, tofu, edamame |
Caffeine | Coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, soft drinks, black coffee |
Food with added sugar | Cakes, syrup, jelly, packaged drinks |
Gluten rich food | Pasta, rice, bread |
Dairy | Milk, cheese |
FAQ
1. Can I eat peanut butter if I have a thyroid?
Peanut butter and peanuts can worsen hypothyroidism. It is generally advised to avoid these in case of hypothyroidism.
2. Is it true that gluten can impact hypothyroidism?
Yes, gluten can impact hypothyroidism. Research shows that people who consume a gluten-free diet have reduced the concentration of antibodies in the blood that attack the thyroid gland. A gluten-free diet aids the symptoms, but it's not a general cure. Consult a doctor before adding any new item to your diet.
3. Can I still consume dairy products with hypothyroidism?
Yes. People with hypothyroidism are lactose intolerant, and dairy products contain lactose and casein. Dairy products can worsen symptoms like fatigue, inflammation, bloating, and gas.
4. Are there any specific beverages I should avoid with hypothyroidism?
People with hypothyroidism must avoid juice, soda, alcohol, coffee, sugary drinks, and soft drinks. These beverages can worsen the hypothyroidism symptoms.
5. Is there a connection between caffeine and hyperthyroidism?
No, there is no direct connection between caffeine and hyperthyroidism. Caffeine's stimulatory effects can increase existing symptoms like anxiety and sleep issues.
6. Can certain vegetables impact hyperthyroidism?
Yes, some vegetables, known as goitrogens, may affect hyperthyroidism. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower contain goitrogens that can interfere with thyroid function when consumed in large amounts.
7. Should I be cautious about any specific nutrients with hyperthyroidism?
Yes, people with hyperthyroidism should be cautious about iodine intake, as excessive amounts can exacerbate symptoms. Monitor calcium and vitamin D levels, as hyperthyroidism can impact bone health. Please consult your healthcare professional; based on your reports, they can personalize your diet.
8. Which foods should I steer clear of if diagnosed with hyperthyroidism?
If you are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, then it's advised to limit iodine-rich foods, dairy products, fish, caffeine, soy products, and sugary drinks. Also, avoid processed foods, as these products can aggravate the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.