What Absolutely Must Be Avoided by Patients with Hypothyroidism
Sep 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, generally does not have absolute dietary restrictions. However, patients are advised to avoid consuming large amounts of high-iodine foods, cold and raw foods, goitrogenic foods, high-fat foods, and spicy or irritating foods. Additionally, certain medications such as Methimazole Tablets, Propylthiouracil Tablets, Amiodarone Hydrochloride Tablets, and Levothyroxine Sodium Tablets should be avoided or used with caution to prevent worsening of the condition.
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, generally does not involve absolute dietary prohibitions. However, patients are advised to avoid consuming large amounts of high-iodine foods, raw and cold foods, goitrogenic foods, high-fat foods, and spicy or stimulating foods. Additionally, certain medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, amiodarone hydrochloride tablets, and levothyroxine sodium tablets should be avoided or used with caution to prevent worsening of the condition. If in doubt, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Foods
1. High-iodine foods: Such as kelp, nori, and sea fish. Excessive iodine intake can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis, exacerbating symptoms of hypothyroidism. Intake should be strictly controlled, avoiding long-term or excessive consumption.
2. Raw and cold foods: Including ice cream, chilled beverages, and raw fish. These can impair the spleen and stomach's yang energy, affect thyroid hormone metabolism, worsen symptoms like fatigue and cold intolerance, and hinder recovery.
3. Goitrogenic foods: Such as cabbage, Chinese cabbage, and radishes, which contain thiocyanates. Overconsumption may inhibit thyroid hormone synthesis. These foods should be cooked and consumed in small amounts; raw or excessive intake should be avoided.
4. High-fat foods: Such as fatty meats, fried foods, and animal offal. These can reduce the absorption efficiency of thyroid hormones, worsen lipid abnormalities, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Consumption should be strictly limited.
5. Spicy or stimulating foods: Such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and excessive ginger. These may irritate thyroid tissue, affect hormone secretion stability, and potentially worsen gastrointestinal discomfort, making them unsuitable for patients.
2. Medications
1. Methimazole tablets: An antithyroid medication used exclusively for treating hyperthyroidism. Its use in patients with hypothyroidism can further suppress thyroid function, leading to lower hormone levels and requiring absolute contraindication.
2. Propylthiouracil tablets: Also an antithyroid medication. Its use in hypothyroid patients can exacerbate thyroid hormone synthesis disorders, triggering severe hypothyroid symptoms and must be strictly prohibited.
3. Amiodarone hydrochloride tablets: Containing large amounts of iodine, its use in hypothyroid patients when not necessary can lead to iodine overload, interfere with thyroid function, and worsen the condition. It should be used only after strict medical evaluation.
4. Levothyroxine sodium tablets: Although a treatment for hypothyroidism, abuse or overdose can cause drug-induced hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms such as palpitations and hand tremors. Dosing must strictly follow medical instructions.
5. Prednisone tablets: A glucocorticoid. Its use without a clear medical indication can suppress thyroid function, affect hormone metabolism, and worsen symptoms such as fatigue and edema. Use should be cautious.
Maintain a light and balanced diet, consume adequate amounts of high-quality protein and vitamins, and regularly monitor thyroid function and lipid levels.
