Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Women over 50 are especially susceptible to hypothyroidism. When left untreated, it may lead to weight gain, joint pain, heart disease and infertility. If you are already in the throes of hypothyroidism, you may need to alter your diet, paying attention to risks of interactions and foods you need to avoid if you are taking prescribed thyroid medication.
Symptoms
Symptoms in the early stages of hypothyroidism are generally mild and may be missed -- or you may attribute them to aging. However, hypothyroidism causes your metabolism to slow, and signs can become more obvious. MayoClinic.com lists the following symptoms of hypothyroidism: fatigue, sluggishness, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, pale/dry skin, puffy face, hoarse voice, elevated blood cholesterol level, unexplained weight gain, muscle aches/tenderness/stiffness, muscle weakness, heavier than normal menstrual periods, depression and brittle fingernails/hair.
Weight gain may be the symptom that brings most people to the doctor, especially if you are a steady exerciser and watch your caloric intake. You may also develop an enlarged thyroid, or a goiter. If the symptoms are ignored, myxedema, or advanced hypothyroidism, can develop; this is life-threatening.
Causes
The following conditions may cause an underactive thyroid: Hashimoto's thyroiditis, treatment for hyperthyroidism, radiation therapy, thyroid surgery and certain medications. Thyroid goiter, which is thought to be caused by incorrect levels of iodine in the diet, can also be a cause of underactive thyroid and may be treated with thyroid medication.
Dietary Concerns
No specific hypothyroidism diet is recommended. Avoiding or eating certain foods will not improve the function of your thyroid. You will need to take the thyroid medication as prescribed by your doctor, generally on an empty stomach, and make the recommended lifestyle changes. Keep in mind that too much fiber can negatively affect the absorption of the synthetic thyroid hormone, and certain foods, supplements and medications can have that same effect. Tell your doctor about all supplements and medications you are taking.
Food Interactions with Medications
The following foods may have an effect of thyroid medication absorption, so avoid eating these foods at the same time as taking your medication: walnuts, soybean flour, cottonseed meal, iron supplements, multivitamins containing iron, calcium supplements, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, some ulcer medications and some cholesterol medications.
