Diet for hyperthyroidism
Manage hyperthyroidism through diet. Iodine, calcium and practical tips.
Calorie calculation examples by profile
Sedentary woman, 30 years old, 121 lbs (accelerated metabolism)
Active woman, 30 years old, 121 lbs (accelerated metabolism)
Sedentary man, 30 years old, 154 lbs (accelerated metabolism)
Active man, 30 years old, 154 lbs (accelerated metabolism)
Hyperthyroidism and metabolism
Hyperthyroidism speeds up metabolism, which can lead to unintentional weight loss, anxiety, palpitations, and heat intolerance. The thyroid produces too much T3 and T4 hormones. Diet can support treatment but never replaces it. Medical supervision is essential.
Limiting iodine: an important precaution
Iodine is the precursor to thyroid hormones. In hyperthyroidism, reducing iodine intake may help limit excessive hormone production. Avoid seaweed, limit seafood, use non-iodized salt. However, the degree of restriction depends on the cause of your hyperthyroidism - follow your doctor's advice.
Cruciferous vegetables: potentially beneficial
Unlike hypothyroidism, cruciferous vegetables may be beneficial for hyperthyroidism. Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower contain goitrogens that can naturally slow thyroid activity. Consume them raw to maximize this effect. This does not replace medical treatment.
Calcium and vitamin D: essential
Hyperthyroidism accelerates bone loss, increasing osteoporosis risk. Ensure adequate calcium intake (1000-1200 mg/day) and vitamin D (600-800 IU/day). Sources: dairy products, leafy green vegetables, fatty fish, moderate sun exposure.
Important
Never go below 1200 kcal/day (women) or 1500 kcal/day (men) without medical supervision. Too aggressive a deficit can be dangerous for your health and counterproductive for weight loss.
Dietary guide for hyperthyroidism
Important: Hyperthyroidism is a serious medical condition requiring treatment. These dietary tips are a complement, not a substitute for treatment prescribed by your endocrinologist. Never modify your treatment without medical advice.
Diet can support hyperthyroidism management and help maintain your health during treatment.
Understanding hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too many hormones, speeding up metabolism:
- Common causes: Graves’ disease, thyroid nodules, thyroiditis
- Symptoms: weight loss, palpitations, tremors, anxiety, heat intolerance
- Treatments: antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine, surgery
Key dietary principles
Iodine management
| Action | Foods concerned |
|---|---|
| Avoid | Seaweed, kelp, nori |
| Limit | Seafood, sea fish |
| Prefer | Non-iodized salt |
| Moderate | Dairy products (moderate iodine source) |
Note: The level of restriction depends on your specific situation and planned treatment.
Cruciferous vegetables: consumption encouraged
Goitrogens in cruciferous vegetables can naturally slow the thyroid:
- Broccoli (preferably raw)
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Bok choy
- Radishes
Tip: consume them raw or lightly cooked to retain the goitrogenic effect.
Calcium and bone health
Hyperthyroidism increases osteoporosis risk:
| Calcium source | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Yogurt (7 oz) | 300 mg |
| Milk (1 cup) | 300 mg |
| Cheese (1 oz) | 200-300 mg |
| Sardines with bones (3.5 oz) | 380 mg |
| Broccoli (7 oz) | 90 mg |
| Almonds (1 oz) | 75 mg |
Goal: 1000-1200 mg of calcium per day
Vitamin D
- Needs: 600-800 IU/day (or more if deficient)
- Sources: fatty fish, egg yolk, sun exposure
- Note: blood testing is recommended to adjust supplementation
Maintaining weight
Hyperthyroidism accelerates metabolism, often causing weight loss:
- Eat frequently: 5-6 small meals per day
- Increase calories: add healthy oils, nuts, avocado
- Adequate protein: 1.2-1.6 g/kg to preserve muscle mass
- Complex carbohydrates: for energy
- Don’t force it: once treated, metabolism normalizes
Sample day
Breakfast (500 kcal)
- Scrambled eggs with kale
- Toast with almond butter
- Milk and banana smoothie
Lunch (600 kcal)
- Grilled chicken
- Raw broccoli, cauliflower, walnut salad
- Brown rice
Snack (200 kcal)
- Greek yogurt with granola
Dinner (550 kcal)
- Salmon (limited, not daily)
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Sweet potato
Evening snack (150 kcal)
- Cheese and whole wheat crackers
Foods and substances to avoid
- Excess iodine: seaweed, iodine supplements
- Caffeine: coffee, strong tea, energy drinks
- Alcohol: can worsen symptoms
- Refined sugar: blood sugar fluctuations
- Natural thyroid supplements: can worsen hyperthyroidism
Mistakes to avoid
- Completely eliminating iodine without medical advice
- Compensating for palpitations with coffee
- Ignoring calcium and vitamin D needs
- Going on a restrictive diet despite weight loss
- Taking supplements without medical validation
Why Voical can help you
With Voical, you can track your caloric intake to maintain stable weight despite an accelerated metabolism. The app also helps you monitor your calcium intake and avoid excessive iodine sources in your daily diet.