Diet and Hypothyroidism

Levothyroxine is a commonly prescribed thyroid hormone replacement medication. Intake of Coffee, soybean, Grapefruit juice, and papaya with this drug may interfere with the absorption and metabolism of the drug. 

 Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, Bok Choy, Kale, Turnip, Collard Greens, and Brussel sprouts are restricted. Excess intake of cruciferous vegetables may induce or exacerbate hypothyroidism. So, it's better to take cruciferous vegetables in the cooked form in moderation. Avoid intake of raw cruciferous vegetables in excess.

 Soya bean and its by-products such as Soy sauce, Tofu, Soya Chamb, Tempeh, and Soya milk may inhibit the action of the thyroid peroxidase is a critical enzyme required for thyroid hormone synthesis. It is suggested to boil soya before use and if your iodine intake is adequate then there is no harm in the consumption of soya and soya products.

Iodine is essential for producing thyroid hormone within the thyroid follicular cell and requires adequate levels of circulating iodide taken in through the diet. Dietary sources of iodine are egg, Iodized salt, Marine Fish, and Strawberries. Iodine supplement intake without physician recommendations needs to be avoided as excess intake is also not beneficial for health.

 Selenium is required for thyroid hormone metabolism. Dietary sources of Selenium are mustard, garlic, broccoli, Cereals, Grains, Organ Meats, and Seafood.