A person’s diet can have an effect on the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Some foods can improve the condition, while others can make symptoms worse or interfere with medications. Hyperthyroidism, a type of thyrotoxicosis, is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Some people refer to this condition as an overactive thyroid. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Graves’ disease. The symptoms of an overactive thyroid include unintentional weight loss, anxiety, sweating, frequent bowel movements, difficulty sleeping, and muscle weakness. Hyperthyroidism is much more common in women than in men. In this article, we discuss how diet affects hyperthyroidism and provide lists of foods to eat and avoid.

How does diet affect hyperthyroidism? Share on Pinterest Eating fresh fruits and vegetables can benefit an overactive thyroid. Eating certain foods will not cure hyperthyroidism, but some nutrients and minerals play a role in managing the underlying condition. Diet can affect both the production of thyroid hormones and how the thyroid functions. The following nutrients and chemicals are among those that can affect hyperthyroidism: Iodine, which the thyroid gland uses to produce thyroid hormone. Too much iodine in the diet can increase the production of thyroid hormone.

Calcium and vitamin D are vital because hyperthyroidism can cause problems with bone mineral density.

Foods and drinks containing caffeine can worsen the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Below, we discuss some of the nutrients that can affect thyroid function and note which foods contain them.

Foods to eat The following foods can have benefits for people with an overactive thyroid: Low iodine foods If a person is planning to receive radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism, their doctor may ask them to follow a low iodine diet. Foods and drinks that are low in iodine include: noniodized salt

egg whites

fresh or frozen vegetables

tea and black coffee

herbs and spices

vegetable oils

sugar, jam, jelly, and honey

unsalted nuts and nut butter

soda and lemonade

beer and wine

moderate portions of beef, chicken, turkey, veal, and lamb

fruit and fruit juices The American Thyroid Association offer tips on how to follow a low iodine diet. Cruciferous vegetables Some cruciferous vegetables contain compounds that decrease thyroid hormone production and may reduce iodine uptake by the thyroid. Both of these effects may be beneficial for a person with hyperthyroidism. However, anyone with hypothyroidism (decreased thyroid function) should avoid eating large amounts of these foods. These cruciferous vegetables include: Brussels sprouts and cabbage

collard greens, mustard greens, and turnip roots and greens

kale and arugula

radishes and rutabagas

bok choy

cauliflower

broccoli and broccoli rabe Foods containing selenium Share on Pinterest Brazil nuts are rich in selenium. Selenium is a micronutrient that the body requires for the metabolism of thyroid hormones. Research suggests that selenium can help improve some of the symptoms of autoimmune thyroid disease, such as thyroid eye disease. Among people using anti-thyroid medications, those who take selenium supplements may achieve normal thyroid levels more quickly than those who do not. Foods rich in selenium include: Brazil nuts

tuna

halibut

shrimp

ham

fortified pasta and cereals

beef

turkey

chicken

rice

eggs

cottage cheese

baked beans

oatmeal

spinach Foods containing iron Iron is a nutrient that is important for normal bodily processes, including thyroid health. Iron helps the red blood cells carry oxygen to other cells in the body. Researchers have linked low levels of iron to hyperthyroidism. People can maintain an adequate intake of iron by including these foods in their diet: fortified cereals

raisins

oysters and fish

white beans, kidney beans, and black beans

dark chocolate

beef, chicken, turkey, and pork

lentils

spinach

tofu

sardines

chickpeas Foods containing calcium and vitamin D There is an association between longstanding hyperthyroidism and decreased bone mineral density, which can lead to osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D are both nutrients that are important for bone health. Foods rich in calcium include: milk

cheese

yogurt

ice cream

canned salmon

sardines

broccoli

fortified orange juice

kale

bok choy

tofu and fortified soy milks Many people with hyperthyroidism have vitamin D deficiency. The primary source of vitamin D is the sun hitting the skin so that the body can make its own. However, due to concerns about sun exposure and increased risk of skin cancer, many people actively limit their time in the sun or use sunscreen. Not many foods are good sources of vitamin D, but the following foods contain some of this vitamin: salmon and tuna

milk and some fortified dairy products (check the labels)

fortified soy milk

fortified cereals Spices Share on Pinterest Turmeric may reduce the frequency of thyroid disease. Studies have linked certain spices, including turmeric and green chilis, to a reduced frequency of thyroid disease, including hyperthyroidism. Turmeric also has anti-inflammatory properties. People can use different spices, such as turmeric, to add flavor to their food.

Foods to avoid Below, we look at the foods that can be harmful to people with hyperthyroidism if they eat them in large quantities: Iodine-rich foods Too much iodine can make hyperthyroidism worse by leading the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. A person with hyperthyroidism should avoid eating excessive amounts of iodine-rich foods, such as: iodized salt

fish and shellfish

seaweed or kelp

dairy products

iodine supplements

food products containing red dye

egg yolks

blackstrap molasses

carrageenan, which is an additive

baked goods with iodate dough conditioners Soy Animal studies have shown that soy ingestion can interfere with radioactive iodine uptake for the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Sources of soy include: soy milk

soy sauce

tofu

edamame beans

soybean oil Gluten Research suggests that autoimmune thyroid disease, including Graves’ disease, is more common among people who have celiac disease than among those who do not. The reason for this is not apparent, but genetics may play a role. Having celiac disease can also make a person more likely to develop other autoimmune disorders. Celiac disease causes damage to the small intestine as a result of the ingestion of gluten. Gluten is a protein in wheat, barley, oats, and rye. People with celiac disease need to follow a gluten free diet. Some research suggests that following a gluten free diet may facilitate better absorption of thyroid medications by the intestine and decrease inflammation. Caffeine Caffeine can worsen some symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including palpitations, tremors, anxiety, and insomnia. Where possible, a person with hyperthyroidism should try to avoid foods and drinks containing caffeine. These include: regular coffee

black tea

chocolate

regular soda

energy drinks