What not to eat with hyperthyroidism

Iodine is used to make thyroid hormones, so concentrated sources can matter in some forms of hyperthyroidism. Seaweed products and iodine-containing supplements may provide much more iodine than an ordinary varied diet. The right advice depends on the cause, thyroid results, treatment and other health needs. Caffeine and energy products can intensify a fast heartbeat, shakiness, anxiety or difficulty sleeping, although responses differ. Avoiding whole food groups without a clear reason can reduce nutrition when the body already feels overstimulated.

Continue a balanced pattern of meals with protein, vegetables, fruit, grains and suitable sources of calcium and fluids. Check labels on supplements, sports powders and fortified products, and tell your clinician about everything you take. Limit products that clearly worsen [Palpitations](/symptoms/palpitations/) or [Feeling Anxious](/symptoms/feeling-anxious/). Do not use a low-iodine plan unless your thyroid team specifically recommends it. Guidance about [Hyperthyroidism](/conditions/hyperthyroidism/) can help place dietary choices alongside treatment.

Seek prompt care for repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, inability to keep fluids down, fainting, confusion, chest pain, severe breathlessness or a persistent very fast heartbeat. These symptoms are not a reason to try a restrictive diet at home; they may signal dehydration, a medicine problem or a thyroid emergency and need clinical assessment.

Ask whether you should avoid iodine supplements or seaweed, whether caffeine is safe with your symptoms, how to meet nutrition needs during weight change, and whether a dietitian could tailor advice to your treatment.