What foods should not be eaten with hypothyroidism?
Jul 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Chuanjia
Introduction
Certain substances present in rapeseed (canola) may affect the thyroid's absorption of iodine. Long-term and excessive consumption might exacerbate insufficient thyroid hormone synthesis, which is detrimental to disease stability; therefore, intake should be controlled. Components in Chinese cabbage may inhibit thyroid function and interfere with the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones. Excessive consumption by individuals with hypothyroidism may worsen symptoms of slowed metabolism.
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, generally does not have specific restrictions on foods that absolutely cannot be eaten. However, it is recommended that individuals with hypothyroidism avoid eating rape (Chinese cabbage), Chinese white cabbage, dried shrimp, salted fish, and cream. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Rape (Chinese cabbage): Some substances in rape may interfere with the thyroid's absorption of iodine. Long-term and excessive consumption could worsen the insufficiency of thyroid hormone synthesis and be detrimental to disease stability. Therefore, consumption should be controlled.
2. Chinese white cabbage: Components in Chinese white cabbage might inhibit thyroid function and interfere with the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones. Excessive consumption by individuals with hypothyroidism could worsen symptoms of slowed metabolism, so moderate consumption is advised.
3. Dried shrimp: Dried shrimp has a high iodine content and is also rich in salt. Excessive intake could increase the burden on the thyroid, affect the normal regulation of thyroid hormones, and simultaneously increase the body's metabolic load. Consumption should be reduced.
4. Salted fish: Salted fish contains a large amount of salt during the pickling process and relatively high levels of iodine. Consumption may interfere with the recovery of thyroid function and have an adverse effect on disease control. Frequent consumption should be avoided.
5. Cream: Cream is a high-fat food. Patients with hypothyroidism have slower metabolism, and excessive consumption could lead to fat accumulation,加重消化负担 (increase digestive burden), and potentially affect hormone regulation. Intake should be limited.
Patients with hypothyroidism should follow the principles of light, easily digestible, and nutritionally balanced diets, avoid the aforementioned restricted foods, and adjust their dietary structure reasonably according to their individual condition and doctors' recommendations.
