Hyperthyroidism Diet & Foods to Avoid 

You need to limit foods naturally high in Iodine (which fuels the thyroid fire) and Stimulants (which worsen symptoms like palpitations).

• High-Iodine Sources:

  • Iodized Salt: While you need some salt, do not overuse it. Avoid adding extra raw salt to salads/curd.

  • Seafood: Avoid saltwater fish (Bangda, Surmai, Pomfret), prawns, crabs, and seaweeds. They are iodine-rich.

  • Red Food Dyes: Avoid commercially colored sweets (bright red Jalebi, Boondi Ladoo) or cherries. The red dye (Erythrosine) is very high in iodine.

• Stimulants:

  • Caffeine: Your heart rate is likely already high. Coffee, strong Chai, and Cola act as fuel on the fire, increasing anxiety and tremors. Switch to decaf or cooling herbal teas.

  • Spicy Foods: Avoid excessive Red Chili,Garam Masala, and Hot Pickles. 

Focus on Thyroid Suppressors (Goitrogens) and Calorie-Dense foods to prevent weight loss.

• Cruciferous Vegetables:

  • They contain compounds that naturally inhibit thyroid hormone production.

  • Eat: Cauliflower (Gobhi), Cabbage (Patta Gobhi), Broccoli, Radish (Mooli), and Turnip (Shalgam).

  • Tip: Eating them raw (in salads) keeps the thyroid-suppressing compounds most active.

• Millet Power:

  • Bajra (Pearl Millet): This grain is known to suppress thyroid function. It is excellent for hyperthyroidism. Replace wheat roti with Bajra roti often.

• Soya Products:

  • Soya Chunks & Tofu: They may interfere with hormone absorption mildly, which is helpful in this condition.

• Calcium & Vitamin D:

  • Excess thyroid hormone pulls calcium out of bones, leading to osteoporosis.

  • Eat: Milk, Paneer, Curd, Ragi (Finger Millet), and Green Leafy Vegetables.