Iodine
The thyroid needs iodine to make hormone. Using iodised salt in normal amounts gives enough for most people in India. Extra iodine supplements or kelp tablets are not needed and too much can upset the thyroid.
Cabbage, cauliflower and other vegetables
These contain substances that, in very large raw amounts, can affect the thyroid. In normal cooked portions they are healthy and do not need to be avoided.
Soy
Soy foods are fine in normal amounts. If you take levothyroxine, keep soy, calcium, iron and high-fibre foods a few hours away from your tablet.
Taking thyroid tablets with food
- Take levothyroxine on an empty stomach, commonly 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, with water
- Avoid tea, coffee and milk for that time
- Keep calcium and iron tablets at least four hours apart
- Take it the same way every day so your dose stays steady
Do I need a gluten-free diet?
Not unless you have coeliac disease. Coeliac disease is more common in people with autoimmune thyroid disease, so your doctor may test for it if you have symptoms or your dose keeps changing.
Weight
Treating an underactive thyroid helps with some of the weight gain, but food and activity still matter as they do for anyone.
This guide is general information and is not a substitute for a consultation.