Underactive thyroid what should i eat

However, identifying the effects of soy on thyroid function requires more research. This disease causes chronic inflammation and damage to the small intestine due to the ingestion of gluten, a protein in wheat and other grains, including barley, oats, and rye.

Treating celiac disease involves switching to a gluten-free diet. People with autoimmune-related hypothyroidism might try going gluten-free to see whether their symptoms improve. Reducing the intake of highly processed foods and added sugars may help improve symptoms, manage weight, and boost overall well-being.

It is important to take thyroid medication on an empty stomach so that the body can absorb it fully. Take it at least 30—60 minutes before breakfast or at least 3—4 hours after dinner. People should not take this medication within 4 hours of consuming foods that contain iron or calcium. In general, the best diet for a person with hypothyroidism contains plenty of fruits, vegetables, filling proteins, healthy fats and a moderate amount of healthful carbohydrates.

However, it is important for each person to experiment and develop a diet that helps them feel their best. People with hypothyroidism may find that they gain weight more easily than people without the condition. This is because hypothyroidism can reduce metabolism. Having a healthful diet rich in fruits, vegetables, filling proteins, and healthy fats can help manage weight and boost well-being.

These foods are also rich in nutrients and may help people feel fuller for longer. In addition, regular moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercise and strength training can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss. Staying active can also improve levels of energy and the quality of sleep. Untreated, it can reduce metabolism and cause fatigue, among other symptoms.

Treatment usually involves taking a synthetic version of thyroid hormones. Sign up and get yours free! Kapil U. Health consequences of iodine deficiency. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J. Various possible toxicants involved in thyroid dysfunction: A review. J Clin Diagn Res. Changes in body weight after treatment of primary hypothyroidism with levothyroxine.

Endocr Pract. Department of Agriculture and U. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, December American Thyroid Association. Thyroid and weight. Hypothyroidism in the elderly: diagnosis and management.

Clin Interv Aging. Aranow C. Vitamin D and the immune system. J Investig Med. Kostiukow A, Romanowski MW, et. Fam Med Med Sci Res. Selenium supplementation for autoimmune thyroiditis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Endocrinol. National Institute of Health. Updated March 26, Fan Y. Selenium supplementation for autoimmune thyroiditis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

DOI: Jonklaas J et al. Stulmig TM. The ZONE diet and metabolic control in type 2 diabetes. J Am Coll Nutr. Ucan B et al. Vitamin D treatment in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis may decrease the development of hypothyroidism.

Int J Vitam Nutr Res. This includes Brazil nuts, tuna, sardines, eggs, and legumes. However, avoid taking a selenium supplement unless advised by a healthcare professional. Supplements provide large doses, and selenium may be toxic in large amounts 16 , Studies also show that zinc may help the body regulate TSH, the hormone that tells the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones Zinc deficiencies are rare in developed countries, as zinc is abundant in the food supply.

Nonetheless, if you have hypothyroidism, aim to eat more zinc-rich foods like oysters and other shellfish, beef, and chicken. Research shows that iodine, selenium, and zinc are especially beneficial for those with hypothyroidism. Goitrogens are compounds that may interfere with the normal function of the thyroid gland. They get their name from the term goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid gland that may occur with hypothyroidism Surprisingly, many common foods contain goitrogens, including 21 :.

In theory, people with hypothyroidism should avoid goitrogens. However, this only seems to be an issue for people who have an iodine deficiency or eat large amounts of goitrogens 22 , 23 , 24 , Also, cooking foods with goitrogens may inactivate these compounds One exception to the above foods is pearl millet.

You may want to avoid eating highly processed foods, as they usually contain a lot of calories. This can be a problem if you have hypothyroidism, as you may gain weight easily. Here is a list of foods you can eat in moderation. These foods contain goitrogens or are known irritants if consumed in large amounts:. People with hypothyroidism should avoid millet, processed foods, and supplements like selenium and zinc, unless a healthcare professional has advised otherwise.

Foods that contain goitrogens may be fine in moderate amounts. People with hypothyroidism should aim to eat a diet based on vegetables, fruits, and lean meats.

These are low in calories and very filling, which may help prevent weight gain. There are plenty of healthy food options for people with hypothyroidism, including eggs, meat, fish, most fruits and vegetables, gluten-free grains and seeds, all dairy products, and non-caffeinated beverages. It provides a healthy amount of protein , has a low to moderate amount of carbs, and can help you manage your weight.

The chemical reactions necessary to sustain life. An outbreak of infection that affects numerous people in different countries. Relating to the kidney. A microbe, such as a type of bacteria, that is able to resist the effects of antibiotics or other drugs. Relating to injury or concern. The main male sex hormone. A gland in the neck that produces hormones with a role in controlling metabolism.

Abnormally swollen. A vein that is swollen, distended and twisted, usually due to weakness of its valves. A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart. Related articles. Heartburn: causes and remedies. Dr Simon Mark Greenfield. Consultant Gastroenterologist. Orthorexia: The new eating disorder. Stephanie Moore. Clinical Nutritionist. Sailing for Recovery. Dr L Stirling. Are Protein Shakes Necessary?