Top 10 Foods To Avoid With Hyperthyroidism
Some important symptoms of hyperthyroidism are anxiety, hand tremors, heart palpitations, sleep difficulties, weight loss, bulging eyes, scant or irregular period & enlargement of thyroid gland.
1. Iodine Rich Foods
Iodine increases the activity of the thyroid gland. Therefore consider avoiding foods rich in iodine if you are suffering from hyperthyroidism. For example:
• Avoid seaweed, kelp, and other sea foods which are rich in iodine.
• Avoid taking iodized salt, because this type of salt contains excess iodine.
2. Caffeine
Need to avoid stimulants like coffee, sugar, or other caffeinated or stimulating food and drink as they intensify the symptoms of heart palpitation and other associated symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Replace caffeinated drinks with water.
3. Whole Milk
Consumption of whole milk is not good for individuals with hyperthyroidism. Skim milk or organic milk is a much better option which is healthy and easier to digest.
4. Enriched Flour
Enriched flour contains fewer nutrients than whole grains and is much more difficult to digest. This type of food is also considered a hypoglycemic food which may disrupt blood sugar and hormone levels in the blood. Consuming foods with a lower glycemic index can restore the healthy hormone levels in the body including thyroid hormone. Replace the enriched pasta, bread, snacks, cereals with 100% whole grains such as brown rice, barley, quinoa, air-popped popcorn, whole wheat bread, etc.
5. Added Sugars
Added sugars like cane sugar, dextrose, high fructose corn syrup, etc. add empty calories, sweetness to the food, and cause blood sugar levels to spike. These types of sugars have few if any nutritional benefits. Heart palpitation seen in individuals with hyperthyroidism can be controlled by improving their blood sugar levels.
Consider avoiding soft drinks, pancake syrup, jam/jelly, cookies, cakes, pastries, candies, and fat free frozen yogurt to name a few.
6. Red Meat
Red Meat has high levels of cholesterol or saturated fat. This can lead to heart disease and type II diabetes. Reducing intake of red meat can help to reduce the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Red meat is also known as an inflammatory food which means it can cause inflammation inside the body if eaten in large quantities of a prolonged period of time.
Consider substitutes containing more lean protein such as cold water fish (salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel), and beans.Avoid processed, fried, or sauced foods.
7. Avoid Allergenic Foods
Grave’s disease is linked to hyperthyroidism. Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disease and food allergies can trigger the symptoms of Grave’s disease. Therefore it would be advisable to avoid foods that are causing you allergic reactions. An elimination food diet or having a food allergy test performed are 2 viable options. The food allergy test will cost a few dollars. Allergies from foods include lactose and gluten intolerance, peanut and wheat allergies, and allergic reactions to food additives to name a few.
8. Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Hydrogenated vegetable oil is used in many commercially prepared food items. These are the sources of Trans fat and they decrease the good cholesterol level and increase symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Consider avoiding foods such as crackers, cookies, doughnuts, margarine, pie crust, and onion rings for example. These foods are commercially prepared.
9. Dairy Products
In some people hyperthyroidism causes lactose intolerance which is the inability to digest milk or milk containing products. If you are experiencing indigestion, bloating, or fatigue after consuming dairy products such as milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, etc. avoid dairy products. There are many alternative on the market which are great tasting.
10. Alcohol
Alcohol can disrupt the energy level and worsen sleep issues related with hyperthyroidism. Consuming alcohol also increases the risk of osteoporosis in individuals with hyperthyroidism. Consider limiting or avoiding all together wine, beer, cocktails, and other alcoholic beverages.
Note: The information above is for information purposes only. This information should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult a medical practitioner before undertaking any changes.