World Thyroid Day- 4 Foods To Avoid For Optimal Thyroid Health

The European Thyroid Association and American Thyroid Association etablished World Thyroid Day, May 25, back in 2008 to promote public awareness of thyroid disease. Thyroid disease, today the most widely occurring endocrine disorder, represents a rapidly growing problem round the world. It afflicts millions of people, affecting their daily life, increasing morbidity, reducing productivity and deteriorating the quality of life. In babies and children thyroid disease impacts the growth and development of the brain and body.

When it comes to managing your hypothyroidism, the most important thing that you put into your mouth each day is probably your hormone replacement medication. But certain foods, supplements and medications can interfere with your thyroid medication or otherwise affect your health, so it's helpful to be aware of what to avoid and what to approach with caution.

# Refined sugars

Sugar is an anti-nutrient which means is impairs nutrient absorption and also wreaks havoc on the gut microbiome, a key piece in regulating immune and endocrine function. If you want something sweet, choose berries and use natural sweeteners like raw honey and maple syrup in moderation.

# Dairy

Dairy products are usually loaded with lactose and added sugars, which muck up intestinal health and weaken the immune system. Over 80% of the antibiotics produced end up going to livestock which most commonly impacts dairy, chicken and red meat. These antibiotics contribute to intestinal permeability and contribute to a compromised microbiome, which ultimately impacts thyroid health.

Dairy also induces a surge insulin which impacts thyroid function and inflammatory markers. We recommend embracing dairy-free products like unsweetened coconut milk and nut cheeses.

# Gluten/Wheat

Gluten and wheat destroy thyroid function and impair intestinal permeability. Several studies have shown a link between gluten intolerance and thyroid disorders like Graves Disease and Hashimoto’s.

Gluten and wheat are also found in highly refined carbohydrate-laden foods that spike glucose levels and raise inflammation in the body. Eating a variety of mineral dense root vegetables, green plantains, sweet potatoes and soaked rice and lentils will provide all the healthy complex carbohydrates needed for satiety and energy.

# Soy

Although soy is a complete protein and does contain fiber, the drawbacks are many. Soy contains Isoflavones, which are estrogen-like compounds that have been shown to reduce ovulation and stimulate the growth of cancer cells.

Soy attacks the thyroid gland causing inflammation which has been shown to worsen hypothyroidism.