Hashimoto thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, leading to an underactive thyroid. The gland produces hormones that regulate our body’s metabolism.
Hashimoto’s disease interferes with the production of these hormones, which can affect some body functions, such as energy levels, digestion, and mood.
If you are affected by Hashimoto’s disease, certain foods can worsen your symptoms. Here, we discuss the foods to avoid to manage the condition better and improve your health.
Soy Products
Soy products are known to worsen the symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease because they contain substances that interfere with the absorption of thyroid medications. Soy contains isoflavones, a plant compound that mimics the thyroid hormone.
Consuming soy products while taking thyroid medication can make it difficult for your body to absorb the medicine. Soy can also lower the levels of iodine in the body, which is necessary for thyroid function.
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid soy products such as soy milk, soybeans, edamame, and tofu.
Gluten
Research suggests that there is an association between Hashimoto’s disease and gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Gluten can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, which can further lead to autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s disease.
People with celiac disease or gluten intolerance may also suffer from nutrient deficiencies that require them to take thyroid medication.
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid gluten-containing foods such as bread, pasta, cereals, and baked goods. You can substitute it with gluten-free options such as rice, quinoa, and millet.
Dairy Products
Many people with Hashimoto’s disease are lactose intolerant. Lactose is a sugar found in milk and milk products. Lactose intolerance means that the body cannot digest lactose, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
Dairy products also contain casein, a protein that can cross-react with the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and exacerbating the symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease.
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. You can substitute it with non-dairy products such as almond, coconut or soy milk, and vegan cheese.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant found in tea, coffee, chocolate, and some energy drinks. It works by increasing the production of adrenaline, which can cause a rapid heartbeat and increased blood pressure.
For people with Hashimoto’s disease, caffeine can exacerbate the symptoms such as anxiety and difficulty sleeping. Caffeine can also lower the absorption of thyroid medication in the body.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit intake of caffeine-containing foods and drinks.
Alcohol
Alcohol can interfere with the production and conversion of thyroid hormones in the body. It also has a negative impact on the liver, which plays a crucial role in metabolism and detoxification.
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What to eliminate from your diet when you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
In people with Hashimoto’s disease, alcohol can exacerbate the symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and depression. It can also interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication in the body.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption if you have Hashimoto’s disease.
Sugar and Processed Foods
Sugar and processed foods have little nutritional value and can lead to inflammation in the body. Inflammation can worsen the autoimmune response in Hashimoto’s disease.
Processed foods also contain additives such as artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives that can be harmful to the body and aggravate Hashimoto’s disease symptoms.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit intake of processed foods and sugar. Instead, consume whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and cabbage contain goitrogens.
Goitrogens are natural compounds that can interfere with thyroid function by blocking the absorption of iodine, a crucial nutrient for thyroid hormone production.
Consuming goitrogenic foods in large quantities can worsen hypothyroidism symptoms in people with Hashimoto’s disease.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit the intake of cruciferous vegetables and consume them in moderation.
High-fat Foods
High-fat foods such as fatty meats, fried foods, and processed snacks can increase inflammation in the body, making it challenging for the immune system to function correctly.
In people with Hashimoto’s disease, high-fat foods can make it difficult to lose weight, a common symptom of the disease.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit the intake of high-fat foods and choose healthier sources of fats such as avocados, nuts, and seeds.
High-Sodium Foods
Foods high in sodium can cause water retention in the body, leading to bloating, weight gain, and swelling of the thyroid gland.
People with Hashimoto’s disease are at risk of developing hypothyroidism, and consuming high-sodium foods can worsen this condition by worsening fluid retention and thyroid function.
Therefore, it is advisable to limit the intake of high-sodium foods such as processed meats, canned foods, and salted snacks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making dietary changes is a crucial step in managing Hashimoto’s disease symptoms. Avoiding certain foods and making healthy food choices can help improve your health and manage the condition better.
Consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized nutrition recommendations and a nutrient-rich diet that supports Hashimoto’s disease management.
