Hypothyroidism Diet & Foods to Avoid 

The goal is to avoid foods that block iodine uptake or interfere with your medication.

• Goitrogens (Cruciferous Vegetables):

  • The Rule: You can eat them, but never eat them raw. Cooking destroys the enzyme that interferes with the thyroid.

  • Foods: Cabbage (Patta Gobhi), Cauliflower (Gobhi), Broccoli, and Kale. Avoid raw salads or coleslaw containing these; always cook them in curries or stir-fries.

• Soya Products:

  • Soy contains isoflavones that can mimic estrogen and disrupt thyroid function. Limit Soya Chunks (Nutrela), Tofu, and Soy Milk. Eat them only occasionally (once a week).

• Millet Caution:

  • While healthy, Pearl Millet (Bajra) contains substances that can suppress thyroid function if eaten in excess. Do not eat Bajra rotis daily; rotate with Jowar or Wheat.

• Medication Blockers:

  • Morning Tea/Coffee: Do not drink chai or coffee immediately after taking your morning thyroid pill. Caffeine impairs absorption. Wait at least 45–60 minutes.

  • Walnuts & High-Fiber Meals: Do not eat a handful of walnuts at the same time as your medicine; they can reduce absorption.

Focus on Iodine, Selenium, and Zinc

• Selenium Sources:

  • Selenium helps convert the inactive hormone (T4) into the active form (T3).

  • Sources: Sunflower Seeds, Eggs, Mushrooms, and Chicken. Even eating just 1-2 Brazil nuts (Trikonphal)  occasionally provides a massive boost.

• Iodine Sources:

  • Iodized Salt: Ensure your kitchen salt is iodized .

  • Dairy: Milk, Curd, and Paneer are good sources of iodine.

  • Fish: If you eat non-veg, saltwater fish is the best source.

• Tyrosine (Protein):

  • The amino acid Tyrosine is a building block for thyroid hormones.

  • Sources: Pumpkin Seeds, Chickpeas (Chole), Lentils (Dal), and Almonds.

• Coconut Oil:

  • Contains Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) which bypass slow digestion and boost metabolism instantly. Use it for tempering (tadka) occasionally.