Your metabolism, energy levels, and general hormonal balance are all significantly influenced by your thyroid. However, some foods can affect thyroid function, particularly if you already have Hashimoto’s disease, hypothyroidism, or other thyroid-related diseases.

This post will discuss six typical items that can harm your thyroid and how to change your diet to improve hormone balance.

1. Soy and Soy-Based Products

Isoflavones, which are plant chemicals found in soy, can interfere with the body’s capacity to absorb iodine and create thyroid hormones, hence disrupting thyroid function. Those on thyroid hormone replacement therapy or those with iodine insufficiency should be especially concerned about this.

Tip: If you’re on levothyroxine, avoid consuming soy products within 3–4 hours of taking your medication.

Examples include miso, edamame, tempeh, tofu, and soy milk.

2. Raw Cruciferous Vegetables

Despite their nutritional value, eating a lot of raw veggies, such as broccoli and kale, can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones. They contain goitrogens, which are substances that may reduce the absorption of iodine, which is necessary for a healthy thyroid.

Tip: Cooking cruciferous vegetables reduces their goitrogenic effects. Steaming or sautéing is recommended.

Brussels sprouts, kale, broccoli, and raw cabbage are a few examples.

3. Gluten

Gluten can cause inflammation and immune system flare-ups in people with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s. Additionally, it might harm the intestinal lining, which would impair the absorption of nutrients and the efficiency of medications.

Tip: If you have been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease, suffer from chronic exhaustion, or have digestive problems, think about following a gluten-free diet.

Examples include processed oats, rye, barley, and wheat.

4. Refined Sugar

In addition to increasing insulin resistance and causing inflammation, too much sugar can exacerbate hypothyroidism symptoms like mood swings, weight gain, and cognitive fog.

Tip: Use natural sweeteners, such as honey (in moderation) or low-glycemic fruits, in place of refined sugar.

Candy, pastries, sugary drinks, and packaged sweets are a few examples.

5. Processed and High-Sodium Foods

High blood pressure and water retention are more common in those with underactive thyroids. The high salt content of processed meals can exacerbate these problems and put stress on the heart.

Tip: Pay close attention to food labels and, whenever feasible, choose “low sodium” substitutes.

Examples include frozen dinners, deli meats, canned soups, and instant noodles.

6. Coffee (Taken Too Soon After Medication)

Coffee consumption too soon after thyroid medication might decrease absorption by as much as 60%, decreasing its effectiveness and delaying recovery.

Tip: Don’t have your morning coffee until at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking levothyroxine.

Examples include instant coffee, cappuccino, cold brew, and espresso.

Foods That Support Thyroid Health

Incorporate these into your diet to maintain optimal thyroid function:

• Omega-3 and iodine-rich fatty fish include mackerel, sardines, and salmon.
• Eggs (a good source of protein and selenium)
• Nuts and seeds: flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and Brazil nuts
• Seaweed (high in iodine; use sparingly)
• Fruits high in antioxidants: kiwis, apples, and blueberries

Final Thoughts

Your diet has a significant impact on how well your thyroid functions. You can make significant progress towards hormone balance and improved health by reducing your intake of these six thyroid-disrupting foods and concentrating on a nutrient-dense, whole-food diet.

Before making significant dietary changes, always get advice from your healthcare professional if you have thyroid issues.