Foods to Avoid With Hyperthyroidism

By Dr. Lokendra Tomar , Dietitian/Nutritionist

The thyroid is the butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, which produces the thyroid hormone that affects the operation of almost every organ of the body. When your body produces too much of this hormone, a condition called hyperthyroidism develops.

The thyroid glands also regulate metabolism, and if you have hyperthyroidism, there are certain foods you need to avoid. Here are 8 foods to avoid if you have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism:

1. Foods rich in iodine- Iodine triggers the production of thyroid hormones, thus, avoiding foods that contain iodine is very important. Seafood, kelp, seaweeds and iodised salt should be avoided at all costs.
2. Caffeine- Hyperthyroidism symptoms are actually intensified when you consume caffeine or other stimulating foods.
3. Whole milk- Drinking whole milk if you are suffering from hyperthyroidism is not a good idea. Lactose intolerance can be a common side effect of hyperthyroidism, and whole milk can agitate your symptoms.
4. Enriched flour- Enriched flour is stripped of its nutrients, which makes them hard to digest. Enriched flour also has a higher glycaemic index than whole flour, and it negatively affects the glucose levels in your body.
5. Added sugar- High fructose corn syrup, dextrose or cane sugar are commonly added to foods, which increases their sweetness and calories. It also causes your blood sugar to spike.
6. Red meat- Red meat contains high levels of saturated fat or cholesterol. It can worsen your symptoms and lead to heart diseases.
7. Hydrogenated vegetable oil- In most commercially processed foods, hydrogenated vegetable oil is a common ingredient. Since it is a source of trans fat, it damages good cholesterol and worsens hyperthyroidism symptoms.
8. Alcohol- Lack of energy and sleep problems are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism, and consuming alcohol worsens them.