Thyroid, the butterfly shaped endocrine gland is involved in the secretion of vital hormones of our body. These hormones collectively work on metabolism, cardiac function, regularising body temperature, cognitive function, bone formation, and fertility.
When your thyroid gland over produces or under produces the hormones, disorders like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can occur. If you have been diagnosed with either of the two conditions, it is essential that you take utmost care of your diet.
To know what foods you should avoid if you are suffering from thyroid disorders, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Ramya B, Executive Nutritionist, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chennai.
Foods To Avoid For Thyroid Disorders
With the help of Ramya, we have listed down a few foods to avoid for thyroid disorders.
1. Cruciferous vegetables
Vegetables like Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, radish, turnip, Brussels sprouts, garden cress leaves, and mustard leaves should be avoided by people with thyroid issues. These vegetable categories contain thiocyanate- a cyanogenic compound that has the potential effect of reducing the iodine uptake by the thyroid gland. However, research states that a thorough cooking process destroys these cyanogenic compounds. If there is a risk of iodine deficiency, cruciferous vegetables should be restricted.
Also read: How Can Thyroid Imbalances Raise Menstrual Problems, Affect Fertility
2. Caffeine
Drinks or food products containing caffeine can impact the utilisation of thyroid medications. Thus, caffeine intake is not advisable when on thyroid medication.
3. Green Tea
As per study, flavonoids-catechins present in green tea show potential effects in reducing T3, and T4 and increasing TSH levels. Hence, frequent intake of green tea is not recommended.
4. Soybeans And Soy Products
Soybeans, soya chunks, soya milk, tofu, and tempeh are some soy products that are generally consumed by people. “These food products contain goitrogens-phytoestrogens that affect thyroid function and inhibit iodine utilisation. Many studies state that daily consumption of soy products results in fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels,” Ramya said.
5. Millet
Among other millets, pearl millet has isoflavones that can affect thyroid function. “Generally, the cooking process helps in destroying the goitrogens. It’s highly recommended to choose polished millets, as bran contains more isoflavones,” Ramya said.
Also read: Stress and Thyroid Health: Expert Explains How Stress Affects Thyroid Health
6. Cassava
Cassava also called tapioca is a starchy vegetable with high levels of cyanogenic glucoside. According to Ramya, these goitrogens cause an imbalance in thyroid hormones and thus high levels of cassava and cassava leaves are not recommended for hypothyroidism.
7. Processed Food
Instant foods, packed foods, processed meat and other fast foods increase the risk of affecting hormones altogether causing slow disruption in overall metabolism.
8. Alcohol
It is very important to stay away from alcohol as it causes an imbalance in the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
Conclusion
One must avoid the foods that can trigger their health condition and strictly keep a check on eating habits. Concluding, Ramya said, “Have a balanced meal rich in fruits and cooked vegetables. Avoid processed foods. Regular physical activity boosts the metabolism and helps in weight control. Include foods rich in zinc and selenium- Nuts (brazil nuts, almonds, walnuts, pistachios), fish, meat, eggs, and seeds.”
(Disclaimer: This article, backed by expert and studies, is for informational purposes only. We advise you to consult your doctor regarding foods you should avoid if suffering from thyroid disorders)
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