Have you been recently diagnosed with Graves Disease or Hyperthyroidism?

Graves Disease presents as hyperthyroidism which is an autoimmune disorder where our own antibodies target the thyroid gland to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone normally regulates our metabolism and excessive amounts may lead to goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), anxiety, tremors, palpitations, heat intolerance, increased perspiration and weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite. Some patients may also present with enlarged eyes or the “thyroid stare” as if the eyes are popping out.

The micronutrients that have a role in thyroid hormone synthesis are Iodine, Selenium, Iron and Zinc. For Hyperthyroid patients, the most significant is Iodine which is a component of the thyroid hormone. Excessive consumption of Iodine from supplements and food may aggravate symptoms. Thus, a low iodine diet is an option for Hyperthyroid patients who want to lessen their symptoms. However, for pregnant patients (who need Iodine for normal fetal development) or for those with other comorbidities, a consultation with a physician is needed before doing any dietary modification.

The following are the tips to reduce iodine intake for patients with hyperthyroidism:

   1. Avoid or lessen (up to maximum of 1x a week):
      ● Iodized salt, or processed foods with iodized salt (check the label)
      ● Fish and seafood, Seaweeds
      ● Vitamin supplements with Iodine
      ● Cough Syrup with Iodine (check the label)
      ● Iodine Containing Antiseptics (like Povidone Iodine)

   2. Eat in moderation (up to maximum of 1 - 3 x a week):
      ● Cheese
      ● Milk and Milk products
      ● Egg Yolk

   3. Safe to eat:
      ● Fresh meat
      ● Vegetables
      ● Fruits
      ● Pasta
      ● Rice
      ● Iodine Free Salt, Rock Salt
      ● Mineral Water instead of Tap Water (Tap water may be treated with Iodine)

These nutrition tips aim to support a patient’s current medications or treatment regimen. Diet may be adjusted based on experiences of the patient.

/AET

References:
Ross, D.S. Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism. UpToDate. Retrieved from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/diagnosis-of-hyperthyroidism?search=graves%20disease&source=search_result&selectedTitle=8~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=8#H25975024

Sharma R, Bharti S, Kumar KH. (2014). Diet and thyroid - myths and facts. J Med Nutr Nutraceut. Retrieved from: https://www.jmnn.org/text.asp?2014/3/2/60/131954.

Image Source:
US National Library of Medicine (2020). Graves Disease. Medline Plus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/graves-disease/