Foods That Shouldn't Be Eaten With Thyroid Meds

Doctors usually suggest taking your thyroid meds on an empty stomach.

Most doctors will suggest that you take your thyroid meds on an empty stomach to assure proper absorption. Here, you'll learn which foods and beverages are especially likely to interfere with your thyroid medication.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower contain substances thought to interfere with the full functioning of the thyroid, though eating them cooked rather than raw may help. Avoid eating these foods at the same time you take your thyroid meds.

Dairy

Calcium-rich foods can interfere with the absorption of your thyroid meds, so avoid consuming large amounts of dairy close to the time you take your meds.

Soy

Avoid eating soy-based foods within a few hours of taking your medicine since soy can interfere with your body's ability to absorb your meds. Some doctors may recommend limiting soy consumption at all times, since excessive soy intake may interfere with the function of your thyroid gland.

Supplements

Avoid taking supplements, especially ones containing iron or calcium, within a few hours before or after taking thyroid medications. These nutrients may interfere with the absorption of thyroid hormone pills.

Coffee

An Italian study published in the journal Thyroid in 2008 found that drinking coffee- or espresso-based beverages at the same time as consuming thyroid meds interfered with the absorption of the medicine in the intestines.

References

• The Thyroid, Pregnancy and Infancy
• An Up-to-Date Look at Goitrogenic Substances in Food
• Thyroid: Altered Intestinal Absorption of L-Thyroxine Caused by Coffee

Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Hypothyroidism Treatment and Drugs