Hypothyroidism is a medical condition that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Located at the base of the neck, the thyroid gland aids in regulating the metabolism. An underactive gland slows the body down, affecting its homeostasis, or metabolic equilibrium, including body temperature and appetite. Typical symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry hair and menstrual irregularities. Speak with your doctor to seek necessary medical treatment as this condition can become serious if left untreated. Furthermore, prescribed medical therapy should be supported with proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet by avoiding foods that may adversely affect hypothyroidism is essential to improving your condition.
Step 1
Stop eating foods that are high in iron at the same time as your medications. Iron-rich foods and supplements may interfere with the absorption of your medicine, which is necessary to increase thyroid gland activity. Food sources of iron include red meat such as lean beef and veal, spinach, leafy greens, egg yolks, chickpeas, lentils and molasses among others. Consider eating iron-rich foods at other times of the day when you are not taking your medication. For instance, if you take your medication in the morning, eat only egg whites with breakfast or save eggs for a mid-day lunch with leafy greens.
Step 2
Avoid eating foods that contain soy at the same time as taking your thyroid hormone medication. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there is evidence that soy may interfere with absorption of the hormone. Soy foods include tofu, soybeans, edamame or tempeh; you should not consume these foods at the same time or within an hour or so of taken your medication.
Step 3
Read food labels carefully to avoid eating foods with your medication that could affect proper absorption. This includes soy and iron ingredients or additives. Avoid foods with soy ingredients including soy protein, hydrolyzed vegetable protein or textured vegetable protein, as these are also soy-derived. Soy is present in many packaged and processed foods including vegetarian meat alternatives like veggie burgers or deli meats. Also check labels for iron content as many cereals or grain products may be fortified with this nutrient.
Step 4
Avoid eating vegetables that may affect thyroid functions. These include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, mustard greens and turnips. These foods are referred to as goitrogenic foods because they increase the risk of developing goiter by decreasing thyroid hormone production. A goiter is a lump in your neck that results from an inflamed thyroid gland. Consider replacing these vegetables with other fresh vegetables that have little affect on thyroid function such as mushroom and peppers or sea vegetables including algae and kelp. In some cases, goitrogenic foods may be eaten in small quantities or if cooked thoroughly enough to break down the enzymes.
Step 5
Eat fruits to replace foods that may affect hypothyroidism. Adding fruits to your diet may eliminate your consumption of other foods that affect medication absorption rate. Fruits, in particular berries such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries, are high in antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system and may help prevent health conditions or certain cancers.
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