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Diet When Taking Synthroid

Aug 18, 2011 | By Maura Shenker
Diet When Taking Synthroid
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Synthroid is a brand name of the drug levothyroxine, a replacement thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism. If you have low thyroid function, you may experience weight gain, slower heart rate and a sensitivity to cold temperatures as your metabolism slows down. Hypothyroidism is rarely caused by diet -- although an iodine deficiency can slow thyroid function. However, your diet can affect how effectively your body absorbs Synthroid, and it's important to follow your doctor's direction for proper use of this medication.

Hypothyroidism

Part of your endocrine system, your thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located at the base of your throat, in front of your vocal cords. Your thyroid produces hormones that regulate how quickly your body uses oxygen and energy -- the components of your metabolism. Too many hormones will speed your metabolism; not enough will slow it down -- which is much more common. A sluggish thyroid, called hypothyroidism, is treated with synthetic hormone replacement; usually in pill form taken daily. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Synthroid

Typically, Synthroid is taken in the morning on an empty stomach. The medication is designed for absorption during digestion in your intestines. Anything that interferes with digestion can block your body from absorbing the drug. MayoClinic.com notes that high-fiber foods can stop your body from using Synthroid effectively. Wait at least 60 minutes after taking your Synthroid to eat. Other foods that can block the absorption of levothyroxine include walnuts, cottonseed meal and soybean flour.

Goitrogens

A goiter, or enlarged thyroid gland, can occur with hypothyroidism. Goitrogenic foods contain chemical compounds that can slow thyroid function -- but only for people who are iodine deficient or already hypothyroid. Cruciferous vegetables such as kale, cabbage, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, mustard and collard greens, broccoli and cauliflower contain goitrogens. You do not need to avoid these vegetables, which are nutrient-dense and provide essential vitamins. Cooking these vegetables deactivates the goitrogens and makes them safe for people with low thyroid function. Soy also affects your thyroid; but fermenting the soy in foods such as tempeh and miso, lessens the impact on your thyroid function.

Other Tips

Other drugs can interfere with your body's ability to absorb Synthroid. Vitamins that contain calcium or iron, antacids and some prescription drugs can bind with Synthroid in your digestive tract and block absorption. Take these medications at least 4 hours after taking your replacement thyroid hormone. Because hypothyroidism can slow metabolism, weight gain is possible. Synthroid can take several weeks to start working; during this time period, weight loss can be challenging. Eat a healthy balanced diet and make sure to consume at least 1,200 to 1,500 calories to avoid slowing your metabolism further. Strength training to build muscle will help boost your metabolism -- muscle uses more calories than fat, even at rest.

References

Article reviewed by Tina Boyle Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

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