Hypothyroid and food: what to know

Lists of "foods to avoid" for an underactive thyroid can make eating feel scary. The research is more reassuring than the internet:

• Cruciferous veggies like broccoli and kale: cooked and in normal amounts, they're generally fine when you get enough iodine.
• Soy: it doesn't need to be avoided, but it can affect how thyroid medication is absorbed, so timing matters.
• Gluten: Hashimoto's is linked with a higher rate of celiac disease, so get tested rather than guessing.
• Timing: coffee, high-fiber meals and calcium or iron supplements can interfere with thyroid medication. Ask your doctor how long to wait after your dose.

Work with your doctor, and never stop or change your medication on your own.

Try this: for one week, jot down when you take your medication and when you eat breakfast, and bring it to your next appointment.