About 5% of the US population age 12 and older has an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, and more than half may be undiagnosed. There tends to be a higher prevalence of thyroid disorders in people with diabetes. Women 5-8 times more likely than men to have hypothyroidism. Those with celiac disease may be at risk as well. More than half of detected cases of hypothyroidism are due to the autoimmune disorder Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (1).
Some of what the thyroid gland regulates in the body includes fat and carbohydrate metabolism, body temperature, and heart rate (1).
Cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, etc.) can produce certain compounds that make it difficult for essential nutrients for the thyroid to function properly to get absorbed. It is important to note, however, that increasing cruciferous vegetable consumption does not appear to increase your risk of hypothyroidism unless iodine levels are low or consumption is insufficient (1).
Soy products (soybeans, tofu, etc.) can also have the same effects as cruciferous vegetables on the thyroid. However, the same applies: it does not appear to increase your risk of hypothyroidism unless iodine levels are low or consumption is insufficient (1).
Iodine, selenium, and iron are involved with thyroid function. Adequate consumption is important. Food sources of iodine include:
Seaweed
Fish/seafood
Eggs
Dairy
Iodized salt
Selenium food sources include:
Brazil nuts: best source
Seafood
Meat, poultry, eggs, dairy
Bread, cereals, other grain products
Here are iron food sources:
Beef, chicken, and turkey
Oysters
Beans, lentils
Tofu
Baked potatoes
Cashews
Spinach or other dark, leafy green vegetables
Fortified breakfast cereals
Whole grain and enriched breads
One thing to remember is that when consuming plant foods that contain iron, try to add a source of Vitamin C with it, which improves the ability of iron to be absorbed into the body.
Taking iodine and selenium supplements may also have negative effects on thyroid function. Talk with your provider before taking these supplements.
The best approach to solving thyroid issues is to be cautious with recommendations and treatment with those whose thyroid activity is impaired. That is why we recommend receiving personalized guidance and treatment for those with thyroid and other metabolic health issues. Here at our Medical Weight Loss and Metabolic Health clinic, we can find an approach that is right for you.
1. Dean S. Medical Nutrition Therapy for Thyroid, Adrenal, and Other Endocrine Disorders. In: Mahan LK, Raymond JL, eds. Krause’s Food & The Nutrition Care Process. 14th ed. Elsevier; 2017:619-626.
