Caffeine speeds up your metabolism¹. This can cause temporary relief of hypothyroid symptoms, but can also potentially put more stress on your thyroid. If you have hyperthyroid, then caffeine can make your symptoms worse.
Per a study in the journal Thyroid, caffeine has been found to block absorption of thyroid hormone replacement. "People who were taking their thyroid medication with their morning coffee had uncontrollable thyroid levels, and we couldn't figure it out," says Dr. Lee.
Effects of coffee on thyroid function
It turns out that caffeine is one of the strongest factors in reducing the absorption of L-thyroxine (commonly known as thyroxine and sold under the drug names: Letrox or Euthyrox).
Many thyroid patients struggle with maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. Drinking caffeinated beverages such as coffee can exacerbate this issue. Studies show that caffeine significantly increases blood sugar, which can trigger the body's stress.
Some effects of caffeine include:
If you have hyperthyroidism, caffeine may worsen your thyroid symptoms because of its stimulating effect. You may find caffeine worsens your already racing and irregular heart rate, high blood pressure, and diarrhea.
Cruciferous vegetables and cabbage: These vegetables when eaten raw in large quantities cause hypothyroidism. This is because of a chemical released from these vegetables that competes with the absorption of iodine by the thyroid gland. Milk: Milk being calcium-rich prevents the body from absorbing thyroid medicine.
Even sips of coffee can affect your thyroid medication if the two aren't spaced apart enough. In studies, coffee reduced the body's absorption of thyroid medications by about 30%. That's why experts recommend that you wait at least 60 minutes between drinking coffee and taking thyroid medication.
New research has shown that coffee can interfere with thyroid medications. Caffeine and decaf coffee can affect absorption. The warning might not be listed on the medication. Nevertheless, several studies have confirmed the link between coffee and thyroid medications.
Fruits: Apples, Pears and Citrus
Apples, pears, plums and citrus fruits are abundant with pectins, which help with detoxifying the body of mercury – one of the most critical metals that have been connected to thyroid problems.
drinks containing caffeine, like coffee, tea and some fizzy drinks, can reduce the amount of levothyroxine your body takes in. Leave at least 30 minutes after taking levothyroxine before you drink them.
“Dark chocolate is an interesting superfood to integrate for those with thyroid conditions,” Richards says. “Cacao contains significant amounts of antioxidants, which work to prevent and treat the cellular damage caused by free radicals in the body as a result of toxins and stress.
Problems with the thyroid can be caused by: iodine deficiency. autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading either to hyperthyroidism (caused by Graves' disease) or hypothyroidism (caused by Hashimoto's disease) inflammation (which may or may not cause pain), caused by a virus or ...
Too much iodine can make hyperthyroidism worse by leading the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. A person with hyperthyroidism should avoid eating excessive amounts of iodine-rich foods, such as: iodized salt. fish and shellfish.
If you are diagnosed with subclinical overactive thyroid, you may not need treatment. In most cases, the reduced level of TSH in your blood returns to normal within a couple of months and your subclinical hyperthyroidism will resolve by itself.
Bananas have high potassium, dietary fiber, vitamins B and C, and essential amino acids. They are natural sources of flavonoids and antioxidants. Bananas also contain selenium, which is quite rarely found naturally in fruits. Around 100 to 150 grams of bananas daily are perfect for proper thyroid function.
Green Tea and Thyroid Health
In animal studies, green tea has been linked to both improvements and worsening of thyroid conditions. Some studies found green tea may suppress thyroid function and increase the risk of goiters. 4 Other studies found green tea extract may promote thyroid healing.
Milk, cheese, and yoghurt are very beneficial for the thyroid as they are high in iodine, the mineral that is essential for proper thyroid functioning. Consuming dairy products will also help with increasing vitamin levels which in turn will help with thyroid problems.
No interactions were found between levothyroxine and Vitamin D3. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
According to the Mayo Clinic, supplements such as calcium, iron, multivitamins containing iron, and antacids containing magnesium or aluminum can potentially have interactions with thyroid medications. They should be taken several hours before or after your thyroid medication to avoid an interaction.