Pregnant people and others who may be more vulnerable to contaminants should follow local recommendations on fish choices and portion sizes.
3. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein, fiber, and minerals.
Brazil nuts are particularly rich in selenium, but their selenium content can be extremely high and variable. Eating large quantities or combining them with selenium supplements can lead to excessive intake.
More is not always better. Selenium deficiency can affect normal physiology, but excessive selenium can also cause harm.
A varied diet is generally safer than relying on large quantities of one food or a high-dose supplement.
4. Whole Grains and Legumes
Oats, brown rice, beans, lentils, and other whole grains or legumes provide fiber and other essential nutrients.
Fiber can help support regular bowel movements, which may be particularly helpful for people who experience constipation. However, people taking levothyroxine should keep their medication routine consistent because substantial dietary changes can affect absorption in some circumstances.
Legumes are also useful sources of plant-based protein and can help create satisfying meals without relying heavily on highly processed foods.
5. Fruits and Vegetables
Berries, citrus fruits, apples, leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, and other vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage contain compounds that have raised questions about thyroid function. In typical dietary amounts, especially when cooked, these vegetables are generally suitable for most people.
You do not need to avoid nutritious vegetables merely because you have hypothyroidism. Extremely high consumption of certain raw cruciferous vegetables may be a concern in specific circumstances, especially with inadequate iodine intake, but ordinary portions are not generally considered dangerous.
Variety is the key. Eating different types of fruit and vegetables helps provide a wider range of nutrients.
6. Iodized Salt in Appropriate Amounts
Iodine is essential for producing thyroid hormones, and iodized salt can help prevent iodine deficiency in populations where it is used.
However, iodized salt should not be used as a reason to consume more salt overall. Excess sodium can increase blood pressure, and the appropriate amount of iodine varies according to individual circumstances.
Some people with thyroid disorders may be sensitive to excessive iodine intake. Others may need specific dietary advice because of pregnancy, an iodine deficiency, or preparation for radioactive iodine treatment.
The goal is adequate—not excessive—iodine intake.
Common Thyroid Myths You Should Stop Believing
Myth 1: Everyone With Hypothyroidism Must Avoid Broccoli and Cabbage
Fact: Most people with thyroid disease can eat these vegetables in ordinary amounts. A balanced diet that includes vegetables is generally beneficial.
Myth 2: Eating Seaweed Will Improve Every Thyroid Problem
Fact: Seaweed can contain very large amounts of iodine. Excess iodine can worsen certain thyroid conditions, so seaweed supplements should not be used as a universal thyroid remedy.
Myth 3: A Gluten-Free Diet Cures Hashimoto's Disease
Fact: A gluten-free diet is essential for people with celiac disease, but it has not been established as necessary or beneficial for everyone with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Myth 4: Thyroid Problems Can Always Be Fixed With Food
Fact: Diet supports general health, but established thyroid disorders may require medication, monitoring, or other medical treatment.
Myth 5: If You Feel Tired, You Must Have an Underactive Thyroid
Fact: Fatigue can result from poor sleep, anemia, stress, infections, medication effects, and many other conditions. Thyroid disease is only one possible explanation.
Myth 6: Natural Supplements Are Always Safe
Fact: Supplements can contain excessive iodine, selenium, or other ingredients. Some can interact with medications or cause misleading laboratory results.
Do not assume that a product is safe simply because it is labeled natural or marketed as a thyroid-support formula.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Thyroid disorders can produce a wide range of symptoms, and the same symptom may occur in several different conditions.
Possible signs of an underactive thyroid include fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, and unexplained weight gain.
An overactive thyroid may cause a rapid heartbeat, tremor, heat intolerance, increased sweating, anxiety, or unexplained weight loss.
These symptoms are not sufficient to diagnose thyroid disease. A healthcare professional may recommend blood tests, including thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormone measurements, depending on the circumstances.
Seek urgent medical care for severe symptoms such as chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a very rapid or irregular heartbeat accompanied by feeling unwell.