Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, part of your endocrine system, doesn't make enough thyroid hormone, which controls metabolism. Commonly caused by inflammation, hypothyroidism may also happen to women after pregnancy, may be caused by a birth defect or could be the result of medication, says the National Institutes of Health. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, the chills and depression. A blood test can determine if you have hypothyroidism, and treatment includes taking replacement thyroid hormone. There is no way to prevent hypothyroidism, but medication and diet may help you restore hormone balance.
Step 1
Avoid foods that interfere with the absorption of replacement thyroid hormone, says MayoClinic.com. This includes foods high in fiber, walnuts, soybean flour and cottonseed meal. These foods may bind with the medication, alter the speed of the drug dissolving and decrease absorption. Take your thyroid medication in the morning, on an empty stomach, at least an hour before eating breakfast.
Step 2
Cook goitrogenic foods. Certain foods, such as Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, mustard greens and turnips contain a compound that can affect your thyroid, slowing down hormone production. This goitrogenic compound can be deactivated through heat, so avoid eating these vegetables raw.
Step 3
Eat foods rich in iodine, such as seaweed, which naturally support thyroid function -- especially if you eat a low-sodium diet. An iodine deficiency may lead to hypothyroidism, which is why iodine is often added to salt -- to maintain thyroid health. If you have reduced your sodium intake for other medical reasons, you may need to get iodine from other sources.
Step 4
Limit how much soy you eat. Soy contains phytoestrogens -- which increase your body's production of a protein that inactivates thyroid hormone. Birth-control pills and estrogen supplements for menopausal women may also affect thyroid hormone absorption.
Tips and Warnings
- Have a blood test done to monitor your thyroid levels every year or if you develop symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as heart palpitations, shaking and sweating.
- Iron and calcium supplements may also interfere with the absorption of synthetic thyroid hormone. Take any supplements at least two hours before or after taking your thyroid medication.
