Hypothyroidism: Should I avoid certain foods? Please help!

[EmL08]

Hi all,

So I'm currently HYPERthyroid. I'm 22, and I've had hyperthyroidism since I was about 16 (my grandmother and my cousin both have HYPOthyroidism). I plan on getting iodine treatment soon, probably in March on my spring break. Obviously I plan on discussing all of this with my doctor as well, but I just wanted a heads-up about what to expect.

I've read that once I'm hypothyroid (and on Synthroid), I'll need to avoid certain foods. Some of the ones that are bothering me are broccoli, spinach, & strawberries -- three of my absolute favorite foods. If I eat broccoli, I do steam it -- but only for about 3-4 minutes. I eat strawberries raw or mixed with plain fat-free yogurt. I have spinach in a side salad every once in a while, in addition to having it in spinach bread (cooked). I also eat a lot of whole wheat pasta, chicken, salmon, garlic, and olive oil.

I exercise often (at least 5-6x per week) and eat healthy not only because it makes me feel well, but because I have a congenital heart condition. I had my mitral valve repaired when I was 6 years old, and I've been fine ever since; I still get regular checkups with a cardiologist.

My concern is this: Will I automatically gain tons of weight because I'll now be hypothyroid, or will I be able to control my weight with my typical workout routine in conjunction with Synthroid? Also, will I have to completely avoid the above mentioned foods, or should I just wait at least an hour after taking my Synthroid in order to have the foods like I normally would?

Again, I'll discuss all of this with my doctor, but I just wanted a heads up. Thanks!!

As a side note, I'm currently on 20mg of Tapazole for my hyperthyroidism.

[AJWS6]

Hello friend, every individual is different.  Use trial/error pertaining to different food groups, discover what works best for you.  Avoid foods that interfere with your system.  I still continue to eat soy without any complications, several hrs after med, drink coffee occassionally, Etc.....    

Although many people do have weight issues during thyroid journey, I haven't had any weight complications, my weight stay's the same at any hormone level.      

Try not to be over concerned with what has not happened yet.  Just take it in stride, manage best you can.  Wishing you well on your journey.    

[FTB4]

Cruciferous Vegitables ie: Broccoli, Cabbage, Brussel Sprouts and Cauliflower can interfere with the absorption of Thyroid meds.
Some Dairy and Calcium or Calcium rich foods
Soy, and some say Coffee or espresso containg foods can also interfere.
Supplements containg Calcium and Iron can also interfere.
You should also wait for 1 hour befor eating anything after taking medication, also wait at least four hours after before eating fiber, since hormone medication tends to bind with fiber causing a loss of the hormone.
You have to read the ingredients on many vitamin supplements, many contain soy as a filler. You should also take Vitamin D (1,000mg per day) and Magnesium Glycinate 400mg at least twice a day (But four hours after medication) Many still eat some cruciferous vegitables in "moderation" and always at least 4-6 hours after medication. Good Luck FTB4