Thyroid problems occur when the thyroid gland produces either too much or too little thyroid hormone. Although under and overactive thyroid are two different conditions, both can cause an enlargement of the thyroid gland. The thyroid hormone helps the body to control your metabolism. Too much thyroid hormone causes your metabolism to speed up; too little thyroid hormone causes it to slow down. In either case, the abnormal amount of thyroid hormone can cause other medical problems.
Goitrogens
These are naturally occurring chemicals in foods and drugs that can interfere with thyroid function in different ways, according to Women to Women. If you have a normal or hyper-functioning thyroid, the gland will simply make more thyroid hormone to make up for the deficit. But if you have inadequate hormone production, hypothyroidism, these foods and medications can cause a further decrease in thyroid hormone production. Foods that have goitrogenic activity include broccoli, cabbage, spinach, turnips, soybeans, peanuts, linseed, pine nuts, millet, cassava and mustard greens, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Iodine
This is a nonmetallic chemical that is found in sea water and some minerals. In a study published in the "New England Journal of Medicine" in June 2006, researchers found that people in China who had an excessive intake of iodine experienced hypothyroidism. Those individuals who already suffer from hypothyroidism should avoid iodine. Foods that are high in iodine include kelp, eggs, strawberries, yogurt and cow's milk.
Allergens
Suspected food allergens can irritate the production of thyroid hormones if you suffer from hyperthyroidism. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you should eliminate food allergens such as dairy products, chemical additives, preservatives and wheat gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye products as well as many of today's processed foods. Look for labels that say "gluten free."
Soy
Soy products are used in menopausal women to help control hot flashes and mood swings. However, according to Women to Women, soy also has goitrogenic compounds that may affect the use of thyroid hormone in the body. Some of this activity may be inactivated when the soy products are cooked or fermented. Those that are cooked or fermented are included in tempeh, soy sauce, miso and natto. If you choose to use edamame or tofu, eat it cooked or steamed.
Refined Foods
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you should reduce or eliminate trans fatty acids and saturated fats found in your diet. These fats can be found in commercially prepared baked products such as cookies, cakes and donuts, as well as margarines, cooking oils, lunch meats, fast foods and red meat. These fats can negatively impact the way in which your thyroid gland functions, whether you are hypothyroid or hyperthyroid.
