Diet for Thyroid Patients

For thyroid patients, paying attention to diet matters for two reasons. First, because the thyroid controls metabolism, diet is important in maintaining a healthy weight despite the thyroid abnormalities. Second, the food choices you make can affect your symptoms and how your medication works. Although thyroid patients often have a difficult time with weight changes, there are dietary choices you can make that will let you manage your weight and your thyroid condition.

Hypothyroidism and Weight Loss

Weight gain is a major symptom of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), and even after patients receive treatment, many report that weight loss is still difficult. The reason for this is because an underactive thyroid means that the metabolism is slowed. Mary Shomon, author of The Thyroid Diet, recommends that people with hypothyroidism follow a low glycemic index diet plan that is high in fiber (see Resources for low GI diet foods). She also recommends eating several small meals through the day instead of three large ones. Anne Wolf, M.S., R.D., a dietitian at University of Virginia, says that calorie restriction is also important. Work with your doctor to come up with a realistic target daily calorie range that will help you lose weight healthfully.

Hyperthyroidism and Iodine

People with hyperthyroidism have the opposite problem as people with an underactive thyroid. Hyperthyroidism accelerates the metabolism, so weight loss occurs. With severe hyperthyroidism, it can be hard to keep weight at a healthy level and it may be necessary to add calories. According to Cleveland Clinic endocrinologist Mario Skugor, M.D., hyperthyroid patients should also pay attention to their iodine consumption. Iodine supports thyroid hormone production, so getting too much of it can cause hyperthyroidism. Although you would need to consume a significant amount of iodine to cause your thyroid to become overactive, if you have hyperthyroidism, be cautious with foods that contain iodine, such as eggs, seafood and iodized table salt. Also avoid taking iodine supplements.

Foods to Avoid

According to the Mayo Clinic, patients taking medication for hypothyroidism should limit their consumption of soy as it may interfere with the way their medication is absorbed. Hyperthyroid and hypothyroid patients whose thyroid disorder is linked to autoimmune disease are at increased risk of developing Celiac disease, a disorder that makes digestion of gluten difficult. If you notice indigestion or nausea after eating foods that contain wheat, barley or rye, contact your doctor to get tested for Celiac disease. You may need to follow a gluten-free diet.