Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition in which your thyroid gland produces deficient amounts of hormones. This can affect your metabolism, moods and energy. If your thyroid is under-active, you may experience lethargy, increased appetite, menstrual irregularities, depressive moods and weight gain. Hypothyroidism is treatable, typically through synthetic thyroid medications. A nutritious diet, limited in foods that interfere with thyroid function, may also improve your symptoms and help reverse or prevent potential complications.
Certain Vegetables
Though vegetables are an important source of vitamins, minerals and fiber, certain varieties may hinder thyroid function and worsen hypothyroidism symptoms. For this reason, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends limiting your consumption of spinach, mustard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and turnips, and increasing your intake of antioxidant-rich varieties, such as berries, bell peppers and squash. Soy-based foods, including soy beans, tofu, edamame and soy milk, may also interfere with thyroid function when consumed in high amounts.
Fatty Meats
Fatty meats contain saturated fat. When consumed in excess, saturated fat increases your risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes, certain forms of cancer and heart disease. A diet high in saturated fat also hinders immune system function and may worsen symptoms of thyroid disease, according to Dr. Ridha Arem, endocrinologist and author of "The Thyroid Solution: A Mind-body Program for Beating Depression and Regaining Your Emotional and Physical Health." Meat varieties particularly high in saturated fat include high-fat steaks, ribs, lamb, bacon, pork sausage, fried chicken, dark-meat poultry and luncheon meats.
Simple Sugars
Simple sugars, such as cane sugar, corn syrup, honey and fruit juice concentrate, add calories and sweet flavor, but few nutrients, to foods. As high-glycemic foods, meaning they have a significant impact on your blood sugar levels, simple sugars may offset hormone levels and interfere with thyroid function, according to Arem. Common sources of simple sugars include candy, regular soft drinks, sweetened coffee drinks, pancake syrup, frosting, jelly, jam and commercially prepared cookies, pastries, cakes, pies and frozen desserts. Arem recommends replacing these foods with whole grains, whole fruits and vegetables for reduced hypothyroidism symptoms.
Nuts and Seeds
Certain nut and seed varieties, though valuable sources of nutrients and healthy fats, may also interfere with thyroid function. Walnuts, for example, may pose problems while you're taking thyroid medications, according to MayoClinic.com endocrinologist Dr. Todd B. Nippoldt. Pine nuts, peanuts and linseed may also interact negatively with your thyroid.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism
- "The Thyroid Solution: A Mind-Body Program for Beating Depression and Regaining Your Emotional and Physical Health"; Ridha Arem, M.D.; 2000
- MayoClinic.com: Hypothyroidism Diet: Can Certain Foods increase Thyroid Function?
