Graves' disease, the most common form of hyperthyroidism, occurs when your immune system attacks your thyroid gland. Your thyroid becomes overactive and produces too much hormone. The thyroid hormone regulates your metabolism and your temperature. Graves' disease is most common in women over the age of 20. While it is not usually life threatening, some of the symptoms can cause discomfort. Changing your diet may provide relief.
Foods to Avoid
If you suffer from Graves' disease, limit or avoid foods that are high in iodine. The thyroid hormone consists of iodine atoms and, since your body is already producing too much thyroid hormone, additional iodine intake would compound this problem. Replace your table salt with sea salt; limit your sugar and white flour intake; avoid monosodium glutamate; and avoid red dye #3. Vegetables in the Brassica family may adversely affect you. These include cabbage, turnips, brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower. You can alleviate some of the effects of these foods if you cook them.
Good Food Choices
Graves' disease stops your body from absorbing maximum nutrients from your food. Eating a high-fat diet will slow down your digestion process and will allow your body to pull more nutrients from your foods. This may also help with any hunger you may experience as a result of the disease. Foods that may help your condition include lean meats, grains, fruits and vegetables.
If your thyroid gland is surgically removed to treat your Graves' disease and you are placed on synthetic thyroid, your dietary needs will change. In this case, you would follow a diet for an underactive thyroid.
Weight Control
Graves' disease may cause weight loss. Increasing your daily caloric intake and eating foods with higher fat content can help you gain weight. Once your disease is under control, you should return to your previous calorie intake. Treatment of Graves' disease can also lead to weight gain. If you should experience this side effect, alter your diet so that you are eating fewer calories but are also eating nutrient-rich foods. This will ensure that your body gets all its necessary nutrients while lowering your risk for weight gain.
Professional Advice
If you suffer from Graves' disease or think that you may suffer from this disease, seek professional medical advice. As with any disease, Graves' disease can affect each person differently. Both medical treatments and dietary changes can help you cope with your condition. Your doctor can help you determine what choices will best fit your individual needs. You may also benefit from consultation with a registered dietitian.
