6 Foods That May Affect Thyroid Health — What You Should Know

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, but it plays an important role in the body.

It helps regulate metabolism, energy use, heart rate, temperature, and several other essential processes. Because nutrition can influence thyroid function, it’s understandable that many people wonder whether certain foods should be avoided.

However, there is an important distinction between foods that may affect thyroid function in specific circumstances and foods that everyone with a thyroid condition needs to eliminate.

Here are six food categories worth understanding.

1. Soy Foods

Soybeans and foods made from soy contain compounds known as isoflavones. Some research has raised questions about whether large amounts of soy could interfere with thyroid hormone production or medication absorption in certain situations.

That doesn’t mean everyone needs to avoid tofu, soy milk, or other soy foods.

For people taking thyroid medication, the timing of soy consumption may be more important than completely eliminating it. It’s best to follow the advice provided by a healthcare professional.

2. Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and similar vegetables are sometimes described as foods that can harm the thyroid.

The reason is that these vegetables contain compounds known as goitrogens, which can interfere with iodine utilization under certain circumstances.