The thyroid gland produces hormones that contribute to your moods, energy and metabolism -- the rate at which food is converted into energy. Disorders that affect your thyroid include hyperthyroidism, which causes excessive hormone production, hypothyroidism, which results in too few hormones, non-cancerous thyroid disease and thyroid cancer. In addition to medical treatments, a healthy diet limited in foods that may disrupt thyroid function or make your symptoms worse can play an important role in your wellness and recovery.
High-Fat Meats
High-fat meats such as organ meats, porterhouse steak, prime rib and bacon contain rich amounts of saturated fat -- a form of fat associated with high cholesterol, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain forms of cancer. While protein-rich foods are important if you have a thyroid disorder, according to the author of "The Thyroid Solution," Ridha Arem, foods high in saturated fat may weaken your immune system and increase your risk for health complications involving your thyroid. Additional meat-based dishes rich in saturated fat include cheeseburgers, meat-topped pizza, hot dogs, deli meats, fried chicken, beef stroganoff and poultry fat.
Certain Vegetables
While vegetables as a whole contribute rich amounts of protective nutrients and heart-healthy fiber, certain varieties may make it difficult for your thyroid to function normally. These vegetables, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, include cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and brussels sprouts, and leafy greens such as spinach and mustard greens. Depending upon the severity of your condition, you may tolerate modest amounts of these vegetables without developing adverse symptoms. Avoid fried vegetables such as french fries and onion rings as well, which contribute high amounts of saturated fat.
Soy
Soy is a legume variety used in a broad range of vegetarian foods and dairy product alternatives. Soy-based foods may also interfere with your thyroid function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Common sources of soy include canned and fresh soybeans, tofu, soy-based tempeh and miso, many vegetarian burgers, soy-based cheeses, yogurts and milk, and edamame -- podded, steamed soybeans.
Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates, such as white flour products, processed snack foods and sugary sweets, contribute calories but few nutritional benefits to foods and beverages. Refined carbohydrates may interfere with your blood sugar levels and worsen energy and mood imbalances associated with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Consuming refined carbohydrate sources regularly also leaves little room for nutritious foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. For these reasons, Arem recommends that thyroid disease patients avoid processed carbohydrates and opt instead for healthier alternatives. Common sources of refined carbohydrates include enriched breads, pasta and cold cereals, instant rice, pretzels, regular soft drinks, sweetened coffee drinks, pancake syrup, jelly and commercially-prepared pie crusts, cakes, cookies and pastries.
References
- "The Thyroid Solution"; Ridha Arem; 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hyperthyroidism
