Milly Gaines
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones. While there is no specific diet to treat hyperthyroidism, certain foods and nutrients can help manage symptoms and support thyroid health. A doctor or dietitian can advise on dietary changes, which may include a low-iodine diet, selenium-rich foods, and adequate vitamin and mineral intake. Herbal remedies and alternative therapies may also be considered, but it is important to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes or taking supplements.
How to help hyperthyroidism with diet
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Iodine | Limit iodine intake, especially in cases of mild hyperthyroidism. However, do not eliminate it completely from your diet. |
| Selenium | Selenium-rich foods may help balance thyroid hormone levels and protect the thyroid from disease. |
| Vitamins | B vitamins, vitamin D, and vitamin A are important for thyroid health. |
| Other nutrients | Iron, zinc, and copper are also essential for healthy thyroid function. |
| Whole foods | Opt for home-cooked whole foods over processed meals, which may contain added iodine. |
| Hydration | Stay hydrated by drinking water. Milk and certain herbal teas are also recommended. |
| Supplements | Consult a doctor or dietitian about taking supplements to address any nutrient deficiencies. |
| Herbal remedies | Consult a trained herbal practitioner for advice on herbal remedies such as ashwaganda, green tea, and lemon balm. |
| Alternative therapies | Acupuncture and therapeutic massage may help relieve stress and correct hormonal imbalances. |
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What You'll Learn
A low-iodine diet
While there is no specific diet for hyperthyroidism, a low-iodine diet is sometimes recommended for those with mild hyperthyroidism who are also undergoing radioactive iodine therapy. This is because iodine plays a major role in thyroid hormone regulation, and too much of it can worsen your condition and even cause hypothyroidism.
On a low-iodine diet, it is important to avoid restaurant, boxed, or processed meals, as well as prepared sauces and marinades, as these may contain added iodine. Instead, opt for home-cooked whole foods. Foods that are rich in iodine include kelp, dulse, and other types of seaweed. It is also important to be cautious of iodine-rich foods that are typically considered healthy, such as tuna, halibut, shrimp, ham, egg yolks, and cottage cheese.
In addition to a low-iodine diet, it is recommended to stay hydrated by drinking water. Milk, certain herbal teas, and low-iodine drinks such as lemonade may also be consumed in moderation.
It is important to consult with a doctor or dietitian before making any major changes to your diet, as dietary restrictions for hyperthyroidism are typically temporary and individualized.
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Selenium-rich foods
Selenium is a mineral found in the soil that plays a key role in metabolism. It is a micronutrient that the body requires for the metabolism of thyroid hormones. Selenium can be found in certain foods and is sometimes added to foods to fortify them. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement.
Some selenium-rich foods include:
- Brazil nuts, which are the most powerful source of selenium. However, it is important to moderate your portions as just one nut contains 90-96 micrograms, almost twice your daily requirement.
- Seafood, such as yellowfin tuna, white fish like halibut, and tinned sardines.
- Shellfish, especially oysters, which also contain a good amount of zinc, vitamin B12, and copper.
- Sunflower seeds, which are the best plant-based source of selenium after Brazil nuts.
- Eggs, specifically egg yolks.
- Meat, for example, ham.
- Cottage cheese.
It is important to note that selenium deficiency is fairly rare, and most people get the amount of selenium they need through their diet. Additionally, high levels of selenium can result in selenium toxicity over time, so it is crucial to monitor your portions and not exceed the safe upper limit of 400 micrograms of selenium per day in adults.
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Foods to avoid
While there is no specific diet for hyperthyroidism, certain foods can worsen symptoms, interfere with medications, or cause inaccuracies in thyroid test results. Here are some foods and drinks that people with hyperthyroidism may want to avoid:
Iodine-rich foods
Although iodine plays a significant role in thyroid hormone regulation, excessive iodine can worsen hyperthyroidism. Foods like kelp, dulse, or other types of seaweed are particularly rich in iodine and should be avoided. In addition, restaurant, boxed, or processed meals, and prepared sauces and marinades may contain added iodine. It is important to be mindful of iodine intake, especially if hyperthyroidism has progressed to Graves' disease.
Caffeine and stimulating herbs
People with hyperthyroidism should avoid stimulating substances such as caffeine and certain herbs. Caffeinated green tea, Chinese or Korean ginseng, and ashwaganda may be too stimulating for those with an overactive thyroid. Instead, opt for caffeine-free products and consult a trained herbal practitioner for advice on herbal supplements.
Foods interfering with medications
Certain foods may interfere with anti-thyroid medications. Selenium-rich foods, including tuna, halibut, shrimp, ham, egg yolks, and cottage cheese, are also high in iodine, which may affect iodine therapy. It is important to consult with a doctor or dietitian to determine how specific foods may interact with medications.
Inaccurate thyroid test results
Some foods and supplements can cause inaccuracies in thyroid tests. It is important to be aware of any substances that may interfere with thyroid testing and adjust intake accordingly before testing.
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Nutritional deficiencies
While there is no specific diet recommended for hyperthyroidism, certain nutritional deficiencies may occur as a result of the condition and its treatment. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and produces excess thyroid hormone. Left untreated, it can lead to heart problems, bone loss, and other issues. Treatment typically involves medication, radiation therapy, or surgery, and dietary changes can also be implemented to support the treatment and improve symptoms.
One of the key nutritional considerations in hyperthyroidism is iodine. While iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones, too much iodine can worsen the condition. A low-iodine diet is sometimes recommended, especially when radioactive iodine therapy is part of the treatment plan. However, completely eliminating iodine from the diet is not advised, as it can lead to deficiencies in other nutrients, such as vitamin D and calcium. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly common in people with hyperthyroidism, and supplementation may be necessary.
Another important nutrient to consider is selenium. Selenium is a micronutrient that helps regulate thyroid hormone levels and protects the thyroid from disease. Selenium-rich foods include Brazil nuts, tuna, halibut, shrimp, ham, egg yolks, and cottage cheese. However, some of these foods are also high in iodine, so it is important to be mindful of iodine intake when including them in the diet.
Other nutritional deficiencies that may be seen in hyperthyroidism include iron and vitamin B deficiencies. High thyroid hormone levels can interfere with normal iron metabolism, leading to iron deficiency or anemia. Vitamin B, particularly vitamin B1 (thiamine), is important as high thyroid hormone levels can deplete thiamine stores. A vitamin B complex supplement may be recommended if a deficiency is identified.
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Herbal remedies
While there is no specific diet recommended for hyperthyroidism, certain foods and natural remedies may help improve hyperthyroidism symptoms. However, it is important to remember that diet is not a cure for hyperthyroidism and some foods may worsen symptoms or interfere with medications.
Some traditional medicines use herbs to support thyroid health. Here are some herbal remedies that may help manage hyperthyroidism:
- Lemon balm: A plant that is a member of the mint family. It is thought to be a treatment for Graves' disease, which is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Lemon balm can be consumed as a tea or in the form of a supplement.
- Lavender: This herb can help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote calmness, which may help fight nervousness and sleeplessness, both symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
- Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica): This herb has been studied for its potential benefits in treating hyperthyroidism.
- Nigella sativa: This herb has been studied for its effects on thyroid function and other factors in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- Lycopus spp: Homeopathic remedies containing herbal extracts from Lycopus spp have been used to treat cases of Graves' hyperthyroidism.
- Ashwagandha: This herb has been studied for its role in the regulation of the thyroid profile in hypothyroidism modelled rats.
- Selenium: Selenium is a mineral that occurs naturally in water, soil, and foods like nuts, fish, beef, and grains. It is also available as a supplement. Research suggests that selenium may help treat the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, especially in people with Graves' disease. It is important to speak with a doctor before taking selenium supplements, as they may have side effects and should not be taken with certain medications.
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Frequently asked questions
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It is often referred to as an overactive thyroid.
While there is no specific diet for hyperthyroidism, certain foods may help improve symptoms. Doctors recommend a low-iodine diet for mild hyperthyroidism, especially if radioactive iodine therapy is the chosen treatment option. Selenium-rich foods may also help balance thyroid hormone levels. It is important to consult a doctor or dietitian for a plan tailored to your needs.
Foods that are generally considered healthy, such as seaweed, may contain high levels of iodine, which can worsen hyperthyroidism symptoms if consumed in excess. Ashwagandha and green tea may also stimulate hyperthyroidism. It is important to consult a doctor or dietitian to determine which foods to avoid.
