Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which a person's thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. According to the Mayo Clinic, women over the age of 50 are most often affected by the disorder. Since hypothyroidism causes an imbalance of the body's chemical reactions, people with the disorder often experience fatigue, constipation, weight gain and low immune system function. Prescription medications, which are synthetic versions of thyroid hormones, are often prescribed for hypothyroidism patients. Certain types of foods interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid medication.
Step 1
Snack on nuts like peanuts and almonds rather than walnuts or soy nuts. Dr. Todd Nippoldt of the Mayo Clinic states that walnuts and soy can both reduce the thyroid glands ability to produce the thyroid hormone. Nuts are rich in iron and protein, but be sure to steer clear of these types, especially when eating mixed nuts.
Step 2
Choose non-cruciferous vegetables. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts, can all interfere with the production of the thyroid hormone, making the effects of hypothyroidism worse. Bell peppers and squash are very high in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and will not interfere with the thyroid gland, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 3
Pay special attention to any supplements or medications you're taking. The Mayo Clinic explains that iron supplements, antacids and calcium supplements can all interact with synthetic thyroid medications, making them weaker or even ineffective. If you're unsure about the safety of a supplement or medication, be sure to call your doctor before taking it.
Step 4
Eat whole grains like brown rice amaranth, quinoa and spelt every day, as these types of whole grains are natural and minimally processed. Whole grains contain B-vitamins and iron, which refined grains like white bread often lack. When you purchase a whole grain that has been processed like whole wheat bread or whole wheat tortillas, check the ingredients to make sure that it does not contain soybean flour or cottonseed meal, which may reduce thyroid function, according to the Mayo Clinic. Instead, look for ingredients like whole wheat flour or oat flour.
Step 5
Drink cow's milk, goat's milk or almond milk, but not soy milk. The Mayo Clinic states that, while soy products can reduce thyroid function, it's still unclear whether or not soy milk is safe for people with hypothyroidism.
Things You'll Need
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
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