A good first step is to evaluate eating habits that developed during hyperthyroidism, when their bodies required substantially more calories, Desai says.
“Learning to recognize hunger and fullness cues again can be an important part of recovery — but that does not mean slashing calories or following a punishing plan,” she says.
You don’t have to follow a restrictive diet, says Desai. “I encourage patients to focus on improving the quality of their food choices and becoming more aware of portions,” she says.
Foods and Nutrients to Focus On
Elisabetta Politi, RD, CDCES, MPH, a certified diabetes care and education specialist at the Duke Lifestyle and Weight Management Center in Durham, North Carolina, recommends people focus on adding rather than subtracting when changing their diet.
Politi recommends focusing on the following nutrients:
- Protein for strength and muscle mass restoration
- Fiber for overall health benefits, including improved satiety (feeling of fullness), improved cholesterol, and more regular bowel movements
- Calcium and vitamin D to combat bone loss that can occur during prolonged hyperthyroidism
Sugary drinks, specialty coffee drinks, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods can make weight management harder because they add calories without much fullness or are easy to overeat, says Desai. Snacks can still fit, but she recommends choosing options that provide protein, fiber, or both.
“Increasing protein intake, eating more vegetables, choosing high-fiber foods, and limiting liquid calories can make a meaningful difference without leaving someone feeling hungry,” says Desai.
But it’s also important to preserve your enjoyment of food; trying to completely eliminate treats or favorites often backfires, she adds.
Avoid Cleanses, Detoxes, and Highly Restrictive Diets
“I generally advise patients to avoid highly restrictive diets, detoxes, cleanses, and other approaches that promise rapid weight loss,” Desai says. These strategies are often difficult to sustain and can increase fatigue, hunger, and frustration, she adds.
Desai also recommends avoiding over-the-counter supplements marketed for “thyroid health,” “thyroid support,” or “boosting metabolism.”
“These products are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription medications, and studies have shown that some contain measurable amounts of thyroid hormone or iodine that are not listed on the label,” she says.
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