Diet for Hypothyroid Disease

Hypothyroidism is characterized by the thyroid gland's inability to produce enough of the thyroid hormone. This hormone regulates metabolism and body temperature. Digestive symptoms can include constipation, fatigue and weight gain. Diets for hypothyroidism can help support synthetic thyroid replacements like Synthroid to be properly absorbed by the body and help alleviate symptoms. Find out what foods you can eat to help.

Foods to Avoid

The thyroid gland needs iodine to be able to function. Certain foods bind iodine and hinder the positive effects of medication. When taking your thyroid medication, be consistent by taking it at the same time every day. Avoid these foods for at least several hours before and after taking your medication. According to Mayo Clinic at www.mayoclinic.com, eating too much dietary fiber can interfere with thyroid replacement medication. Fibrous foods include cabbage, broccoli, buckwheat, kale, oats, rye and legumes. In addition, calcium will not allow for the medication to be properly absorbed. These foods include milk, cheese and calcium-enriched juices. Also, refrain from taking any supplements with calcium or aluminum because they can interfere with the medication.

Fatty Foods

The University of Maryland Medical Center at www.umm.edu suggests cutting out unhealthy fat like red meat and processed foods. Replace beef with low-fat proteins like fish, chicken and turkey. Trans fatty foods can elevate cholesterol, which worsens the symptoms of high cholesterol and weight gain found in people with hypothyroidism. Incorporate more fresh vegetables, whole grains and fruits. Eat foods packed with antioxidants like blueberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, squash and cherries. Those with hypothyroidism are oftentimes depleted of vitamins and nutrients. Get the nutrition you need by adding foods packed with vitamins in your diet.

Iodine Rich Foods

The University of Michigan at www.med.umich.edu reports that hypothyroidism can be caused by lack of iodine in the diet. Though rare, it is possible to not eat enough iodine for your thyroid to function. The university recommends for adult women and men to get 100 micrograms of iodine daily. Also, help your underproductive thyroid glands by adding more iodine in your diet. The majority of people get their iodine from eating table salt. Table salt is high in iodine, yet can also elevate blood pressure and cause hypertension . Eat foods with iodine like cod fish, haddock, eggs, seaweed, kelp and sea salt. Sushi is a great choice for those trying to get more iodine. The nori seaweed used in sushi rolls is full of iodine. Choose sushi rolls made with brown rice. Experiment at home by making your own rolls with foods important to your hypothyroid diet.