⚠️ 6 Foods to Steer Clear of If You Have Thyroid Problems, Says Nutritionist

Food is essential for the body’s proper functioning, but when it comes to thyroid disorders, regulating what you eat becomes even more important. Some foods can interfere with medication absorption or prevent the gland from working optimally, making it vital to know what to limit.

Nutritionist LogaPritika Srinivasan highlighted that the thyroid gland is responsible for “regulating metabolism, energy, and overall hormonal balance.” She explained that a thyroid-friendly diet should focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods that reduce inflammation and promote hormone stability.

Among the foods to avoid, milk tea with sugar tops the list. Excess sugar can trigger inflammation, cause insulin resistance, and worsen hormonal imbalances. Refined flour snacks such as biscuits and bakery items are another culprit, being highly processed and loaded with sugar. Homemade millet or oat-based snacks are healthier alternatives.

Sugary desserts like cakes, chocolates, and packaged sweets should also be restricted, as they spike blood sugar and disrupt hormone function. Fresh fruits such as papaya, berries, or guava, or dates in moderation, are better options to satisfy sweet cravings. Similarly, carbonated soft drinks with added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and caffeine can aggravate thyroid conditions and interfere with medication absorption. Coconut water or lemon-mint water make refreshing substitutes.

Fried foods, including pakoras and samosas, are discouraged because unhealthy fats interfere with thyroid hormone production and medication effectiveness. Baked or air-fried snacks are safer in moderation. White bread made from refined flour (maida) should also be avoided, as it lacks nutrients, causes blood sugar spikes, and often contains additives harmful to digestion. Whole-grain bread, ragi, or jowar chapatis are recommended replacements.

❓ FAQs on Foods to Avoid with Thyroid Issues

Q. Which foods can interfere with thyroid function? Goitrogenic foods like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and soy may interfere with thyroid hormone production if eaten in excess.

Q. Should people with thyroid problems avoid soy? Yes, especially those with hypothyroidism, as soy can reduce thyroid hormone absorption from medication.

Q. Is gluten harmful for thyroid health? People with autoimmune thyroid disease (like Hashimoto’s) may benefit from avoiding gluten, which can trigger inflammation.

Q. Can too much iodine harm the thyroid? Yes. While iodine is essential, excessive intake from supplements or seaweed can worsen thyroid dysfunction.

Q. What foods affect thyroid medication absorption? Coffee, high-fiber foods, and calcium- or iron-rich foods can reduce absorption if taken too close to thyroid medication.

Disclaimer: This article provides general health information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.