Hyperthyroidism is a thyroid disease that affects about 1 in 100 people ages 12 and older. It develops (commonly due to Grave's disease) when the body produces too much thyroid hormone, a hormone responsible for numerous body functions — notably metabolic rate.
Nutrition is vital in effectively managing hyperthyroidism symptoms and optimizing overall health. This article provides actionable diet and nutritional strategies to help individuals with hyperthyroidism manage their symptoms and avoid thyroid disease-related complications.
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Understanding the Impact of Hyperthyroidism on the Body
Excessive production of thyroid hormone can impact the body in various ways, including:
- Metabolic changes
- Increased appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Frequent bowel movements
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- Tiredness
- Moist skin
- Thinning, fine, or brittle hair
- Heat intolerance
- Excessive sweating
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle weakness
- Shaky hands or tremors
- Menstrual cycle changes
- Nervousness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Shortness of breath
- Bulging, red, or swollen eyes
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Nutrient imbalances
Examples of supplements that may be useful for balancing thyroid hormone or addressing nutrient deficiencies in individuals with hyperthyroidism include:
- Antioxidants supporting thyroid health: Vitamin C, selenium, vitamin E, vitamin A, and alpha-lipoic acid
- Vitamins and minerals that help reduce deficiencies linked to hyperthyroidism: Iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, copper, and B vitamins
- Micronutrients that support bone health: Vitamin D and calcium
- Nutrients that boost immunity, enhance gut health, and lessen inflammation: Omega-3s and probiotics
- Supplements that help decrease thyroid activity: L-carnitine
Avoid supplements containing iodine. Consume a well-balanced hyperthyroidism diet and undergo medical treatment for thyroid hormone imbalances to minimize bothersome symptoms and avoid complications. Seek individualized medical advice, as everyone has unique needs.
Essential Nutrients for Hyperthyroidism Management
Examples of beneficial nutrients for hyperthyroidism management include:
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium and vitamin D are critical for bone health, particularly in individuals with hyperthyroidism. Rich dietary sources of calcium and vitamin D that are not high in iodine include:
- Fortified plant milk, such as coconut, oat, hemp, almond, or cashew milk (no soy milk)
- Calcium-fortified breakfast cereals
- Calcium-fortified 100% juice
- Leafy greens
- Broccoli
- Mushrooms
- Freshwater fish (e.g., river bass, carp, river perch, lake trout)
While egg yolks, milk, yogurt, and other dairy foods are good sources of calcium and vitamin D, they are also high in iodine. Too much dietary iodine can worsen hyperthyroidism symptoms, though this essential mineral is beneficial for individuals with hypothyroidism.
Soy products are often good sources of calcium, but some contain iodine or interact with thyroid disease medications.
Some dietary supplements contain calcium and vitamin D, and sunlight exposure is a good source of vitamin D.
Protein
Protein is vital in maintaining muscle and bone mass in individuals with thyroid diseases. Protein-rich options that are low in iodine include:
- Fresh lean meat
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Veal
- Lamb
- Pork
- Freshwater fish
- Egg whites (or whole eggs in moderation)
- Plant milk (no soy milk)
- Nuts, seeds, and nut butter without iodized salt
- Green peas
- Plant-based protein powders without soy
Use caution with non-freshwater fish, seafood, milk, and yogurt; these protein-rich options often contain high amounts of iodine. However, low-iodine diets may allow for 1 ounce of milk per day.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect the body against oxidative stress. Examples of foods rich in antioxidants that support thyroid health include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains made without iodate dough conditioners
- Nuts and seeds without iodized salt
- Nut butters without iodized salt
- Green peas
- Herbs and spices
- Cocoa powder
Choose an array of low-iodine plant-based foods daily to ensure ample antioxidants for optimal thyroid functioning.
Foods to Include in the Diet
Low-iodine foods to include in a hyperthyroidism diet include:
Whole Grains
Whole grains are packed with antioxidants, B vitamins, iron, energy, and fiber, filling you up while protecting against oxidative stress, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Examples of whole grains to consider to support thyroid health include:
- Quinoa
- Brown rice
- Wild rice
- Popcorn (made without iodized salt)
- Oatmeal
- Whole-grain cereals
- Other whole grains
Steer clear of products made with iodate dough conditioners. For example, avoid bread products containing potassium iodate or calcium iodate on the ingredient list.
Fruits and Vegetables
Choosing an array of antioxidant-rich fresh fruits and vegetables is vital to round out a hyperthyroidism meal plan. Examples include:
- Citrus fruits
- Bananas
- Berries
- Cherries
- Dried fruits
- 100% fruit juice
- Green peas
- Broccoli
- Leafy greens
- Potatoes without the skin
- Squash
- Tomatoes
- Bell peppers
Avoid bottled or canned cherries containing red dye #3, canned or frozen vegetables with iodized salt, seaweed, and legumes because of the iodine content.
Lean Proteins
Lean protein foods to consider include:
- Freshwater fish
- Fresh lean beef
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Veal
- Lamb
- Pork
- Egg whites
- Green peas
- Plant-based protein powders (no soy)
- Nuts, seeds, and nut butters without iodized salt
Small amounts of dairy (1 ounce per day) may be okay.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Complete a hyperthyroidism diet by boosting satiety with omega-3 fatty acids and other heart-healthy fats. Examples include:
- Nuts, seeds, and nut butters without iodized salt
- Olive oil, canola oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, and other plant-based oils
- Avocados
- Omega-3 supplements with the iodine removed during purification
When possible, avoid soybean oil, nuts and seeds containing iodized salt, butter, lard, and other animal-based fats.
Plant Milk
Regular milk may be okay in very small amounts. But because of the iodine content, choose calcium- and vitamin D-rich non-soy plant milk instead. Consider coconut, oat, hemp, almond, or cashew milk.
Other Drinks
Drinks that are typically okay in a hyperthyroidism meal plan include:
- Decaffeinated coffee
- Caffeine-free green tea
- Herbal teas
- 100% fruit juice
- Non-dairy milk (no soy milk)
- Water
- Carbonated water
- Coconut water
Drink plenty of fluids daily to stay hydrated. Mix 1 teaspoon of herbs with 1 cup of hot water when preparing herbal tea.
Herbs, Spices, and Ingredients
Miscellaneous foods that can be part of a hyperthyroidism diet include:
- Non-iodized salt (kosher salt, plain table salt, etc.)
- Pepper
- Nutmeg
- Cinnamon
- Oregano
- Other herbs and spices
- Lemon balm
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Jellies and jams
- Mustard
- Vinegar
- Non-creamy salad dressings
- Plain cacao powder
- Non-dairy chocolate
However, avoid the following iodine-containing ingredients: iodates, iodides, alginates, nori, carrageenan, agar-agar, and algin.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
If you've been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, limit or avoid the following foods to support thyroid health:
Iodine-Rich Foods
The body uses iodine to make thyroid hormones, so overconsumption can worsen hyperthyroidism symptoms. A high iodine intake, particularly from iodine supplements, can lead to iodine-induced hyperthyroidism.
Examples of high-iodine foods to limit or avoid include:
- Iodized salt
- Seaweed
- Fish (except freshwater fish)
- Sushi
- Seafood
- Highly processed, salted, and cured meats
- Milk and other dairy foods
- Egg yolks
- Breads made with iodate dough conditioners
- Vitamins and other dietary supplements containing iodine
- Capsules, pills, or foods containing red dye #3
- Maraschino cherries containing red dye #3
- Liquid nutritional supplements containing iodine, such as Ensure®, Glucerna®, Nutrament®, Orgain®, or Boost®
- Milk chocolate
- Legumes (green peas are okay)
Some foods containing iodine may be included in a hyperthyroidism meal plan in small amounts. Check with your doctor or dietitian for a personalized meal plan.
Soy foods
Soy-based foods, such as tofu, tempeh, soy protein powder, soy milk, and soy sauce, could contain iodine or interfere with radioactive iodine used to treat hyperthyroidism.
Caffeinated Beverages
Because of caffeine's effects on anxiety, shakiness, sleep, restlessness, and heart rate, limit or avoid caffeinated beverages if you have hyperthyroidism.
One study showed that drinking 2-4 cups of coffee daily reduced thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood.
Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations regarding caffeinated drinks.
Processed and Sugary Foods
Limit or avoid certain foods to support a healthy body weight, control blood sugar and blood pressure, and consume adequate essential nutrients. Examples of foods to avoid include added sugars, sugary drinks, foods high in sodium, fried foods, processed meats, and other highly processed foods.
Some Herbs
Avoid certain herbs that may worsen hyperthyroidism symptoms. Examples include bladderwrack, ashwagandha, caffeinated green tea products, and Korean or Chinese ginseng.
Meal Planning and Balanced Diet Strategies
Examples of effective dietary strategies that help ensure a balanced diet in people with hyperthyroidism include:
Creating Balanced Meals
Individuals with hyperthyroidism can follow healthy meal plans similar to people without thyroid disease but should avoid high-iodine foods.
Try the diabetes plate method (or something similar) to balance macronutrients. Fill 1/4 your plate with low-iodine protein foods, 1/4 of the plate with fiber-rich carbohydrates (whole grains, fruits, or low-iodine starchy veggies like green peas, potatoes without skin, corn, etc.), and 1/2 of the plate with non-starchy vegetables.
Add nuts, seeds, or nut butter without iodized salt, oils, avocados, and calcium-rich (non-soy) plant milk.
Sample Meal Plans
Examples of hyperthyroidism-friendly meals and snacks include:
Menu 1
Breakfast
- Oatmeal topped with berries and unsalted nuts
- Egg-white, mushroom, and kale omelet cooked in olive oil
- Plant milk (no soy milk)
Snack
- Herbal tea
- Unsweetened plant-based yogurt (without soy)
- Dried fruit
Lunch
- Veggie or turkey burger on a whole-grain bun or wrapped in lettuce with sliced avocado and sliced tomatoes
- Plant milk (no soy milk)
Snack
- Popcorn without iodized salt
Dinner
- Baked chicken
- Quinoa
- Leafy green salad topped with fresh sliced veggies, unsalted nuts, and an oil-based dressing
Menu 2
Breakfast
- Smoothie blended with almond milk, bananas, unsalted nut butter, and plant-protein powder (no soy protein)
Snack
- Herbal tea
- Fresh sliced apples or pears
- Nut butter without iodized salt
Lunch
- Lean beef, lamb, or pork
- Sweet potatoes without the skin
- Green beans
- Plant milk
Snack
- Veggie chips roasted in olive oil and non-iodized salt or herbs
Dinner
- Freshwater fish (e.g., river bass, carp, river perch, lake trout)
- Brown or wild rice
- Broccoli
Menu 3
Breakfast
- Whole-grain cereal topped with non-soy plant milk, blueberries, and unsalted nuts or seeds
- Hard-boiled egg whites
Snack
- Smoothie blended with plant protein powder (no soy), coconut water or plant milk, and fresh fruit
Lunch
- Leafy green salad topped with egg whites, grilled chicken, sliced vegetables, and oil-based dressing
- Whole-grain bread made without iodate bread conditioners
Snack
- Sliced celery dipped in nut butter without iodized salt
Dinner
- Baked turkey
- Mashed potatoes (made without milk or butter)
- Grilled asparagus in olive oil
Portion Control
Manage portion sizes by filling each plate of food using the perfect plate method. Aim for three meals daily with snacks in between as needed to manage hunger and maintain a healthy body weight.
Hydration
Proper hydration is vital for people with (and without) hyperthyroidism. Fluid recommendations are about 16 cups daily for men and 12 cups per day for women.
These recommendations include water, other beverages, and foods for total fluids. Individualized fluid requirements vary based on size, age, body composition, and activity level.
Supplements and Vitamins
Consider taking supplements if you're deficient in nutrients based on lab testing results or if you're at risk of a deficiency. Symptoms of nutrient deficiencies to watch for include:
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Thinning hair
- Brittle nails
- Difficulty concentrating
- Loss of lean muscle
- Slow-healing wounds
- Numbness or tingling
Beneficial supplements include:
- Multivitamin supplements containing calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, E, C, D, and B complex (look for products without iodine)
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- L-carnitine
- Alpha-lipoic acid
- Lemon balm
- Probiotics
These supplements may decrease thyroid hormone activity, provide antioxidant support, reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies, enhance gut health, or boost immunity. It's vital to consult with a healthcare provider before taking dietary supplements, as some can interact with medications.
Special Dietary Considerations
Special dietary requirements to consider if you have thyroid disease include:
Pregnancy and Hyperthyroidism
Pregnancy requires special dietary considerations, particularly in women with thyroid disease. It's essential to maintain normal thyroid levels during pregnancy to reduce the risk of complications, such as prematurity, stillbirth, fetal fast heart rate, birth defects, and small gestational age.
Pregnant women should eat a well-balanced hyperthyroidism diet, take dietary supplements as directed by their doctor, and undergo routine thyroid lab testing. Women often require higher amounts of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals during pregnancy.
Vegetarian and Vegan Diets
When avoiding meat, poultry, and other animal foods as part of a vegetarian or vegan diet, it's crucial to ensure adequate nutrition — especially among people with thyroid disease.
Vegetarian and vegan dieters can work with a doctor or nutritionist to create custom meal plans and dietary supplement regimens that meet their nutritional needs while effectively supporting hyperthyroidism.
Managing Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Managing diarrhea, malabsorption, and other symptoms linked to hyperthyroidism involves:
- Making dietary changes.
- Taking vitamin or mineral supplements.
- Undergoing medical treatment as needed.
Consider taking probiotics supplements under medical supervision to ease any gastrointestinal symptoms.
Tips for Sustainable Dietary Changes
If you have hyperthyroidism, several diet and nutrition tips can help. Make small, manageable changes gradually over time to ensure long-term success.
Monitor dietary impacts on symptoms and adjust your diet and supplements under medical supervision. Seek professional support by working with a dietitian, nutritionist, doctor, or nurse and undergo routine thyroid lab testing.
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Key Takeaways
- Key dietary strategies for individuals with hyperthyroidism include avoiding high-iodine foods and choosing options rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Take dietary supplements to reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies and have your thyroid hormone levels monitored regularly.
- It's vital to take a personalized approach to hyperthyroidism nutrition and adjust as needed to ensure long-lasting, optimal health outcomes.
- Consult a healthcare provider for tailored hyperthyroidism diet plans and supplement advice based on your labs, lifestyle, health history, and medications.
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