Hypothyroidism patients must dodge tofu, broccoli, sweets, processed foods, gluten, and coffee to safeguard thyroid function and medication effectiveness. Dr. Archita Mahajan—nutritionist with a Master’s in Food Nutrition & Dietetics, homeopathic pharmacist, trained yoga teacher, and Padma Bhushan nominee honored by Punjab and Himachal—highlights how these interfere with hormone absorption and production.
Key Foods to Avoid & Why:
- Soy/Tofu: Isoflavones block thyroid hormones; time 4+ hours from meds.
- Broccoli/Cruciferous Veggies: Goitrogens hinder iodine when raw/excessive—cook to minimize.
- Gluten: Fuels inflammation in autoimmune cases like Hashimoto’s.
- Sweets: Spike weight gain via slowed metabolism, unstable blood sugar.
- Processed/Fried Foods: Excess sodium/trans fats harm heart, insulin response.
- Coffee: Reduces levothyroxine uptake—wait 30-60 minutes post-dose.
Balance with iodine-rich foods for better thyroid control and energy.
