Ask

Get Experts at Happy Tummy to answer your queries regarding Nutrition and other food-related topics.

What food should I eat and avoid if my TSH levels are high?

Tanisha Roy

1 year ago

What food should I eat and avoid if my TSH levels are high?

Food
0

Happy Tummy Expert

1 year ago

Dear Tanisha Roy,

Thank you for your question.

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), also called mild thyroid failure, is diagnosed when peripheral thyroid hormone levels are within normal reference laboratory range but serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are mildly elevated. Thyroid disorders including hyper or hypothyroidism requires further diagnosis from specific medical experts. It is suggested to contact your health care professional for further assistance and management for thyroid disorders.

Here are few tips to manage Hypothyroidism 

  • Iodised salt, seafood (such as fish and prawns), grains and breads are common dietary sources of iodine. Include iodized salt in your diet and food preparation.

  • Try to limit the intake of Cruciferous vegetables like kale, turnips, cabbage, cauliflower etc., as they are known as goitrogens which can inhibit the synthesis of thyroid hormones.

  • Limit the intake of soy products as they contain Goitrogens. They may also be found in soy products like soy chunks, soy granules, tofu, etc.

  • Along with iodine, Selenium also helps in improving the thyroid functioning. Seafood, organ meats, cereals, poultry, red meat, and eggs are a good source of selenium. Include these foods in your daily balanced diet. 

Here are few guidelines that can be considered for healthy balanced diet.

  • Have a Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the food groups in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning. 

  • Try to incorporate the My plate Concept by dividing your plate into 4 quadrants, fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, the other two quadrants with cereals and protein. A small quantity of dairy intake is recommendable. 

  • Begin your day with a well-balanced breakfast as it is an important meal of the day.

  • Avoid skipping meals. Also, try to avoid fasting and feasting too often.

  • Consume small frequent meals, with healthy snacking options. 

  • Consume minimum 5 servings of vegetables and 1 serving of fruit as they are rich in Fiber, essential minerals & Vitamins as well as they give you a feeling of satiety. 

  • Try to consume more of Whole grains, millets & Multigrain foods as they are a good source of fiber.

  • Limit intake of deep-fried foods. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.

  • Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before sleep time. 

  • Drink adequate amount of water (minimum 8 glasses) of water daily to keep yourself well hydrated

  • Engage in at least 30-45 minutes brisk walk/physical activity of moderate intensity at least 5 days a week.

  • Try and follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and Quality.


For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead!

0 Reply