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I am under Levothyroxine for underactive thyroid. What kind of foods should I avoid?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had a sudden weight gain. Are there any foods that should be avoided either at certain times of the day or all together while taking Levothyroxine to treat an underactive thyroid?

Answered by Dr. Makwana Tanvi Ghanshyambhai

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Makwana Tanvi Ghanshyambhai is a leading Endocrinologist, Diabetologist, and Thyroid Specialist in Mumbai. Her main aim is to help all her patients to the maximum of her abilities and expertise. She has a particular interest in Diabetes, Thyroid, and reproductive endocrinology. She does not want anyone's diabetes to be uncontrolled and lead to complications. She believes in early detection and control of any problems arising due to hormonal imbalances. She completed her MBBS at MGM Institute of Health Sciences, Masters in Endocrinology at UK, and Diabetology at USA-ADA. She has 17 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Tanvi's Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity, Hormones (Endocrine) Clinic, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Avoid raw cabbage, cauliflower, brocolli, soy and soy products like soy sauce, soy milk, tofu, strawberry, walnut, spinach, and brussel sprouts. Do not take any meals or drink except plain water for atleast 45 minutes after taking medication. Avoid taking acidity-causing foods, calcium and iron supplements with the medicine.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I have read about not having calcium-rich foods for four hours after taking the medication, Is this correct? Can soy and soy products be eaten occasionally or should they be avoided all together?

Answered by Dr. Makwana Tanvi Ghanshyambhai

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Makwana Tanvi Ghanshyambhai is a leading Endocrinologist, Diabetologist, and Thyroid Specialist in Mumbai. Her main aim is to help all her patients to the maximum of her abilities and expertise. She has a particular interest in Diabetes, Thyroid, and reproductive endocrinology. She does not want anyone's diabetes to be uncontrolled and lead to complications. She believes in early detection and control of any problems arising due to hormonal imbalances. She completed her MBBS at MGM Institute of Health Sciences, Masters in Endocrinology at UK, and Diabetology at USA-ADA. She has 17 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Tanvi's Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity, Hormones (Endocrine) Clinic, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Four hour gap is sufficient between calcium and thyroid medicine. You can eat soy products once in a while.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nithila. A
Published At June 8, 2019
Reviewed At October 6, 2023

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Makwana Tanvi Ghanshyambhai is a leading Endocrinologist, Diabetologist, and Thyroid Specialist in Mumbai. Her main aim is to help all her patients to the maximum of her abilities and expertise. She has a particular interest in Diabetes, Thyroid, and reproductive endocrinology. She does not want anyone's diabetes to be uncontrolled and lead to complications. She believes in early detection and control of any problems arising due to hormonal imbalances. She completed her MBBS at MGM Institute of Health Sciences, Masters in Endocrinology at UK, and Diabetology at USA-ADA. She has 17 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Tanvi's Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity, Hormones (Endocrine) Clinic, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Nithila A is a Dental Surgeon specializing in providing comprehensive oral healthcare. She focuses on preventive care, routine dental treatments, and patient education to maintain optimal oral health. Known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, she ensures comfortable and effective dental care tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Companion

Levothyroxine Absorption and Dietary Timing Companion

How it works

Taking levothyroxine for an underactive thyroid requires careful attention to diet and timing. Certain foods and supplements can interfere with how your body absorbs the medication. Understanding these interactions can help you manage your thyroid health more effectively.

1

Levothyroxine
Detail

2

Goitrogenic
Foods

3

Timing
Matters

4

Calcium
Supplements

5

Iron
Supplements

6

Soy
Products

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Makwana Tanvi Ghanshyambhai is a leading Endocrinologist, Diabetologist, and Thyroid Specialist in Mumbai. Her main aim is to help all her patients to the maximum of her abilities and expertise. She has a particular interest in Diabetes, Thyroid, and reproductive endocrinology. She does not want anyone's diabetes to be uncontrolled and lead to complications. She believes in early detection and control of any problems arising due to hormonal imbalances. She completed her MBBS at MGM Institute of Health Sciences, Masters in Endocrinology at UK, and Diabetology at USA-ADA. She has 17 years of clinical experience and currently practicing in Dr. Tanvi's Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity, Hormones (Endocrine) Clinic, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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