HYPOTHYROIDISM

FOODS THAT HARM

Walnuts

Soybean flour

FOODS THAT HEAL

Carrots

Sweet potato

Papaya

Cantaloupe

Spinach

Turnip greens

WHO’S AFFECTED

People over age 50 may have hyperthyroidism

Females, especially after pregnancy

People with autoimmune disorders

Anyone who has a family history of thyroid problems

People who’ve had radiation treatments to the neck

Anyone who’s been treated with radioactive iodine or antithyroid medications
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland in your neck isn’t producing enough hormones
An underactive thyroid slows metabolism, causing weight gain and lethargy
Symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and poor memory are often dismissed as normal signs of aging
People with a sluggish thyroid feel cold, even on hot days, and develop dry skin and thinning hair
Nails grow slowly and become brittle
Women often develop menstrual irregularities; constipation is another common problem

FOOD-DRUG INTERACTION

If you’re taking a synthetic thyroid hormone, limit dietary fiber
Certain foods (walnuts, soybean flour), supplements (iron, calcium), and medications (some antacids, ulcer medications, and cholesterol drugs) can have the same effect
To avoid potential interactions, eat these foods or use these products several hours before or after you take your thyroid medication
13
5 million people with an underactive thyroid are undiagnosed
A simple blood test performed by your doctor will sort out whether or not your thyroid is functioning normally
Treatment usually requires lifelong hormone replacement

Nutrition Connection

These measures can help control hypothyroidism: Eat more beta-carotene–rich foods
The hormone thyroxine that is used to treat hypothyroidism accelerates the conversion of beta-carotene to vitamin A in the body
People with hypothyroidism may need a higher intake of beta-carotene to meet vitamin A needs
The best sources: deep yellow or orange fruits and vegetables, and dark green vegetables
Cook your broccoli
Certain vegetables, mainly cabbage, broccoli, and other cruciferous vegetables, contain substances known as goitrogens, which block the effects of thyroid hormones
Cooking these foods inactivates the goitrogens

Beyond the Diet

Don’t mess with your meds
Even when your symptoms go away, you need to continue to take your medication to maintain adequate levels and to enable your doctor to monitor the medication’s effectiveness
Consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication
Watch calories and exercise
Thyroid disorders and medications can cause weight gain so be vigilant to limit any unwanted pounds