19 Foods to Avoid If You Have Hypothyroidism or Thyroid Problems

Got it — here’s a clear, practical list of foods people with hypothyroidism or thyroid issues are commonly advised to limit or avoid, especially if symptoms aren’t well controlled. (This is general guidance, not a substitute for your doctor’s advice.)

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19 Foods to Avoid or Limit with Hypothyroidism

1–6. Goitrogenic foods (especially raw)

These can interfere with iodine uptake when eaten in large amounts:

1. Raw cabbage
2. Raw broccoli
3. Raw cauliflower
4. Brussels sprouts
5. Kale (raw, smoothies)
6. Bok choy

👉 Cooking greatly reduces the goitrogen effect.

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7–10. Soy-based foods

Soy may interfere with thyroid hormone absorption:
7. Soybeans
8. Tofu
9. Soy milk
10. Edamame

👉 If you eat soy, keep it several hours away from thyroid medication.

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11–12. Gluten-containing foods

Problematic for people with Hashimoto’s or gluten sensitivity:
11. Wheat
12. Barley & rye

👉 Many people with autoimmune thyroid disease feel better on a gluten-free diet.

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13–14. Highly processed & sugary foods

Can worsen inflammation and weight gain:
13. Packaged snacks, pastries, candy
14. Sugary drinks & desserts

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15. Refined carbs

Spike blood sugar and worsen fatigue:
15. White bread, white pasta, white rice

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16. Excess fiber (around medication time)

Too much fiber can block hormone absorption:
16. Fiber supplements or very high-fiber meals near medication time

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17. Alcohol

17. Alcohol can suppress thyroid function and stress the liver (important for hormone conversion)

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18. Fried & fast foods

18. High in trans fats, worsen inflammation and hormone imbalance

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19. Certain supplements & foods close to meds

19. Calcium- or iron-rich foods/supplements taken within 3–4 hours of thyroid medication

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Helpful Tips 💡

• Take thyroid meds on an empty stomach, same time daily
• Wait 30–60 minutes before eating
• Cook cruciferous veggies instead of eating them raw
• Focus on selenium, zinc, iodine (not excessive), and protein

If you want, I can also:

• ✅ Give a thyroid-friendly food list
• ✅ Create a sample daily meal plan
• ✅ Tailor advice for Hashimoto’s vs. hypothyroidism
• ✅ Explain what to eat vs. avoid around medication time

Just tell me 💙