Chocolate is a food loved by many, but certain diseases and conditions call for limiting or omitting chocolate from your diet -- including low thyroid, or hypothyroidism, a condition marked by the inactivity of the thyroid gland. The thyroid produces hormones that control many bodily processes, including hunger, body temperature and metabolism. Hypothyroidism can be caused by a variety of things, including autoimmune disease, exposure to radiation, surgery to remove the thyroid gland, inflammation of the thyroid gland, known as thyroiditis, and certain medicines such as lithium and amiodarone.
Thyroid Medications
Patients suffering from low thyroid, or hypothyroidism, often take Synthroid or Lethroxyn, drugs designed to replace the hormones the thyroid fails to produce for the body. These drugs can counteract with certain foods and substances, so it is recommended that these medications be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes apart from eating or drinking any foods or beverages. A full glass of water is recommended with the dose of medication to ensure absorption. Have your doctor conduct regular blood tests to monitor the level of thyroid activity, as thyroidism can alter and change, producing more or fewer hormones as you age.
Hypothyroidism and Drug Interactions
According to Drugs.com, soymilk formulas, cotton-seed meal, walnuts and high-fiber foods can interfere with the absorption of Synthroid and should be avoided immediately before or following your dose. Chocolate is not on the list of foods to avoid, but some chocolate does contain milk and Vitamin D. It is important to be aware that Vitamin D can block Synthroid from being fully absorbed. Therefore, the best strategy is to take Synthroid on an empty stomach and wait at least 30 minutes before ingesting food or beverages.
Foods That Help Your Thyroid
According to the All On Health website, a certain diet should be followed to ensure that you are helping your thyroid, rather than hindering its ability to produce hormones. Foods with metabolic enzymes, such as fruits and vegetables, are highly recommended, as they spur the metabolism. Iodine is also crucial and can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, salt, cod, cow's milk, shrimp, navy beans, boiled eggs, seaweed, and canned tuna are all great sources of iodine.
Foods to Avoid
All On Health lists chocolate, cane sugar, corn syrup and other sweeteners as foods to avoid when suffering from hypothyroidism. Additionally, baking powder and refined oils, also found in some chocolate products such as cakes and cookies, should be avoided. Because some brands of milk contain hormones, it is wise to look for organic or hormone-free varieties of milk to ensure that you are not furthering your thyroid dysfunction. Always consult your health care provider about the proper diet to follow specific to your personal condition.
