9 Foods to Avoid if You’re Diagnosed With Hypothyroidism

Soy isoflavones have long been linked to thyroid damage. Researchers believe too much soy may cause hypothyroidism. Soy has no effect on thyroid hormones and slightly raises thyroid stimulating hormone, according to Scientific Reports.

Foods With Soy

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You may have heard that hypothyroidism patients should avoid cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. If you're deficient in iodine, they may affect thyroid hormone production. 

Broccoli and Cauliflower

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A review found celiac disease and hypothyroidism often coexist. A gluten-free diet has not been shown to treat thyroid conditions, but you may want to talk to a doctor about eliminating gluten or getting tested for celiac disease.

Bread and Pasta

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Fats impair thyroid hormone replacement medicine absorption, says Stephanie Lee, MD, PhD, director of the Thyroid Health Center at Boston Medical Center and professor at Boston University School of Medicine.

Fatty Foods

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Untreated or undertreated hypothyroidism slows metabolism, says Los Angeles dietitian Ruth Frechman, RDN. This makes weight gain easy if unwatchful. Avoid sugary foods because they are high in calories but low in nutrients.

Chocolate Cake

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Frechman advises hypothyroidism patients to avoid processed foods high in sodium. Too much sodium and an underactive thyroid increase high blood pressure risk.

Processed Foods

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The USDA's Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 25 to 38 g of fiber per day for most adults, based on 14 g per 1,000 calories. Above that level, whole grain, vegetable, fruit, bean, and legume fiber affects digestion and thyroid hormone replacement drug absorption.

Beans, Legumes, and Vegetables

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Caffeine inhibits thyroid hormone absorption. We couldn't figure out why people who took thyroid medication with coffee had uncontrollable thyroid levels.

Coffee

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According to a study, alcohol can damage thyroid hormone levels and production. Alcohol appears to poison the thyroid gland and suppress thyroid hormone use. Hypothyroidism patients should avoid alcohol or drink moderately.

Alcohol Is Thyroid-Harming

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also see

also see

7 Hypothyroidism-Friendly Foods to Add to Your Diet

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