Foods To Avoid In Hypothyroidism – Avoid These 2 Goitrogenic Groups
You may have not heard of the term “goitrogenic” or “goitrogenic foods,” however these foods and dietary components that can cause inflammation of the thyroid gland (goiter) and thus inhibit its proper functioning. Most foods that are considered “goitrogenic” are only harmful to those suffering from hypothyroidism and not those with normal functioning thyroids. Having said that, let us take a look at two MAJOR dietary groups contributing to the worsening of your hypothyroidism.
Transgressor #1 – Soy Products
The evidence is clear however, many consultants are proponents of hypothyroid diets that are high in soy. Do not consume this uninformed advice.
Research has concluded that soy is estrogenic in nature. This means that human body reacts to it like its own supply of estrogen. Your body will try to adjust for elevated levels and in the process cause hormonal imbalances. More strictly, in terms of thyroid impact, estrogen and substances that mimic it block the thyroid gland from secreting thyroid hormone. Avoid soy containing products including: soy milk, edamame, tofu, soy burgers, soy cheese and all other soy. Avoid these and you’ll avoid the negative thyroid consequences associated with their consumption.
Culprit #2 – Polyunsaturated Fats
Media exposure has been given to the body of research that shows such great benefits polyunsaturated fats can create by incorporating into your diet. This research ignores or is ignorant of just as much evidence demonstrating the catastrophic effects polyunsaturated fats can have on sufferers of hypothyroidism.
Polyunsaturated fats are responsible for blocking the ability of the thyroid gland to secrete thyroid hormone. These fats block proper circulation in order to distribute thyroid hormone throughout the body. In addition they also block the cells ability to utilize the thyroid hormone if and when it is finally received.
What foods are high in polyunsaturated fats and thus need to put on your no-no list? A lot of vegetable oils including soybean oil, safflower oil and then there’s corn oil. Mayonnaise also happens to be high in these PUFs. Watch out for some seeds and nuts including flax seeds (and flax seed oil), sunflower seeds and walnuts. One last admonition, check your salad dressing because most are heavily comprised of high polyunsaturated fat culprit, soybean oil as well as others.
Learn more about hypothyroidism symptoms. Stop by Scott McLeod’s site where you can find out all about symptoms of hypothyroidism and how to treat it naturally.