{"id":5887,"date":"2019-04-22T04:17:29","date_gmt":"2019-04-22T04:17:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/?p=5887"},"modified":"2021-11-10T14:20:28","modified_gmt":"2021-11-10T14:20:28","slug":"14-foods-to-avoid-with-graves-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/14-foods-to-avoid-with-graves-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Foods to Avoid with Graves Disease"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Graves disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system produces antibodies that attack the thyroid. The thyroid is responsible for the functioning of the metabolism that regulates energy production and body temperature. There are many medical treatments to combat Graves disease, but it is also important to ensure that you are eating a diet that will not aggravate your condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is a good idea to avoid white flour, or wheat altogether, dairy, cruciferous vegetables, seafood, soy, caffeine, and sugar. It is also a good idea to eat natural foods that are not processed to avoid coming in contact with hidden iodized salt, sugar, additives, and preservatives. Also, it is a good idea to eliminate foods that tend to create allergies, such as peanuts, dairy, and eggs. Try to find replacements for your favorite foods that are on the no-no list and make more food at home to help accommodate your new diet.
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1. Soy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although soy can be a gift for many vegans and provide a high-protein meat <\/a>and cheese alternative, soy should be avoided by those who have Graves disease. This includes tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and artificial dairy products, such as cream cheese and ice cream made with soy rather than dairy. Soy contains compounds called isoflavones that can stimulate the production of antibodies that work against the thyroid gland. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition, for those who are prone to developing goiters, such as those with Graves disease, soy should be avoided, because it can contribute to hormone imbalances that may lead to the enlargement of the thyroid gland. Look for almond milk rather than soy milk or rice milk, which does not produce allergies or irritation. You can also use cashew butter for a creamy consistency, healthy fats, and proteins as an alternative to soy. Also, beware of soy sauce and edamame. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2. Cruciferous Vegetables<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Although broccoli and cauliflower <\/a>are healthy for most people, they should be avoided by those with Graves disease, those who have a tendency to develop goiters, and people who run the risk of both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Cruciferous vegetables include a long list of otherwise healthy foods such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, turnips, rutabaga, kale, bok choy, wasabi, horseradish, and watercress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At first glance, cruciferous vegetables may cause hypothyroidism, which is the opposite problem of Graves disease, which is characterized by hyperthyroidism. However, the issues these vegetables cause may lead to goiters which can create an imbalance in thyroid production. Once a goiter is formed, more thyroid hormone is produced, and hyperthyroidism can result. It may be hard to avoid these vegetables at first, particularly if you like leafy greens, but you can replace them with colorful, flavorful vegetables that are filled with nutrients.
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3. Iodine Foods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Iodine <\/a>has a powerful effect on the thyroid gland, and if there are disturbances in the thyroid gland, it is a good idea to be careful about consuming too much iodine. If you are undergoing radioactive iodine therapy, you will need to cut iodine out of your diet entirely. The foods that are the most commonly associated with iodine are seaweed, such as nori wrappers used for sushi and sea vegetables, and shellfish, such as shrimp, oysters, and clams. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You will also want to remove iodized salt from your table and replace it with alternative salts that do not contain iodine. There are many hidden sources of iodine, such as multivitamins that contain kelp, dairy products, and processed baked goods that may have iodine in their dough conditioners. Soy products may also contain iodine, and in any case, should be avoided by those with Graves disease because of the effect on the thyroid.
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4. Caffeine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Caffeine <\/a>can increase anxiety and feelings of overstimulation which are associated with hyperthyroidism and Graves disease. In addition, Graves’s disease can also increase insomnia which can be aggravated by caffeine. You will want to avoid coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate. The sugar that also goes with caffeinated beverages should also not be consumed. Excessive consumption of caffeine can also lead to heart palpitations which are also common with this illness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you find it difficult to quit caffeine suddenly, start by cutting down or tapering off. You may experience headaches or other symptoms by giving up caffeine at first, but you will also feel more relaxed and less anxious as you cut out stimulants from your diet. In addition, other stimulants should be avoided because they may contribute to the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Some medications contain caffeine, such as pain relievers to inspect the label to keep stimulants out of your system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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5. White Flour<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

White, processed flour is not the healthiest way to eat grains. When possible, if you eat grains, switch to whole wheat grains, which are less likely to create allergic reactions than white flour. However, you may find that any glute products may be aggravating symptoms of Graves’s disease. Many people who suffer from Celiac or gluten <\/a>intolerance also have problems with Graves’s disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most thyroid problems are autoimmune disorders, which means the immune system is mounting an attack against the thyroid. One of the proteins in gluten resembles the thyroid and may cause the immune system to attack the thyroid. You may not have noticed if you have a problem with gluten if you do not have gastrointestinal symptoms. However, gluten sensitivity can work in several ways, including the thyroid. It is worthwhile to get tested for celiac if you have Graves disease to find out if gluten is risky for you.
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6. Dairy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dairy<\/a> products can have a negative effect on many people with autoimmune disorders. Like gluten, the protein in dairy, casein, can be mistaken for thyroid and can cause your immune system to attack the thyroid if you have Graves disease. You may not have to eliminate dairy entirely, and can reduce it. In addition, eating probiotics, such as yogurt, may enhance gut health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you feel bloating in your gut after eating dairy products, you should definitely avoid drinking milk, eating cheese, and consuming ice cream. Dairy, eggs, and gluten are allergens, and these types of foods should be avoided by those who suffer from Graves disease. You can find alternatives to dairy by using coconut oil or coconut cream and almond milk. You can also use cashew milk or cashew butter to replace dairy products and add protein to your diet.
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7. Sugars<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Graves disease is connected with hyperthyroidism <\/a>which involves the speeding up of the metabolism. Symptoms that accompany hyperthyroidism may include anxiety, heart palpitation, insomnia, nervousness, and other types of hyperstimulation. Because of this, stimulants such as caffeine should be avoided by those with Graves’s disease. For similar reasons, sugar should be eliminated from the diet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This includes not only sugary foods such as candy and sweet baked goods but sugar should not be added to herbal teas or other beverages. You should also avoid molasses, corn syrup, and other non-sugar sweeteners. In addition, natural sugars in fruit should be kept to a minimum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although you can enjoy oranges, berries, and other sweet fruits in moderation, overdosing on these foods can raise your blood sugar which can increase feelings of nervousness. You may consider using a sugar substitute such as stevia but do so in moderation, because these may contain hidden ingredients and can also raise your blood sugar slightly.
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8. Allergen foods, soy, wheat, dairy, additives, peanuts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Foods that tend to cause allergies<\/a>, such as soy, wheat, dairy, peanuts, and foods with additives, should be avoided by those who are suffering from Graves disease. This is true of anyone who has an autoimmune disorder when the body\u2019s immune system produces antibodies that attack the system. Foods that contain allergens, such as eggs and wheat, can stimulate the production of antibodies that can affect the thyroid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you do not have any allergies to these foods, you may be able to consume them in moderation, but it may be a good idea to be on the safe side. It may not be simple at first to eat such a restricted diet, but you can soon find replacements, such as rice instead of pasta, and almond milk instead of soy and dairy. You may also want to avoid processed foods and eat homemade food whenever possible to avoid preservatives and additives. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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9. Gluten<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who are dealing with Graves’ disease have higher incidences of celiac disease than the general population. Celiac disease describes an allergy to gluten in wheat, barley, rye, and other grain products. The gluten <\/a>in these foods interacts with the GI tract’s intestinal lining, causing massive amounts of inflammation.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a result, the affected individual experiences symptoms like gas, cramping, and nausea. Severe cases can even result in vomiting or diarrhea in the affected individual. Foods containing gluten make it challenging to treat Graves disease in patients. It’s best to avoid all foods containing gluten, including pasta and breakfast cereals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you’re doing your grocery shopping, check the ingredients labels of the foods you buy, and look for gluten-free products. Gluten-free products are easier for your system to digest, and they don’t cause the same level of inflammation in the GI tract. However, it’s important to note that cross-contamination with gluten can occur in factories that produce gluten and non-gluten foods. Make sure you check your reaction to any new foods you eat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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10. Meat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you’re dealing with Grave’s disease, the food you eat affects your thyroid function, and you can feel the difference in the changes you make to your diet. There is convincing evidence showing that vegetarians and vegans have lower incidences of thyroid dysfunction. If you’re dealing with Grave’s disease, it might be a good idea to try a plant-based diet for a while and avoid all forms of meat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stop consuming beef <\/a>and chicken, and note the reaction your body has to the change. Many people report that they stop experiencing immune disorders after taking to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. Medical science is unclear why a plant-based lifestyle would be more beneficial to preventing autoimmune disorders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, there is convincing research showing the benefits of going meat-free if you have Graves disease. Drop the meat out of your diet for a few weeks, and you’ll notice your digestion improves, and you have more energy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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11. Fish<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who are dealing with Grave’s disease can see plenty of benefits from dropping meat like chicken, beef, and lamb out of their diet. However, if you find you have a sensitivity to fish, it might be a wise idea to take it off your menu as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fish <\/a>is naturally high in iodine, one of the no-no ingredients for people dealing with Grave’s disease. As mentioned, iodine increases the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and is especially high in seafood like cod and haddock. Avoid eating any fish with white flesh, as these species have the highest iodine concentration.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Going plant-based with your nutrition is a great way to see the effects of meat and fish on your diet. By abstaining from eating meat and fish for a few weeks, you’ll get a good idea of how your body handles a plant-based diet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most people with Grave’s disease find they get tremendous benefits from going on a plant-based diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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12. Nitrates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

According to research, the nitrates in certain foods, like smoked meats, contain high levels of nitrates that support iodine absorption. We already know that high levels of iodine are not good for people dealing with the effects of Grave’s disease on their thyroid. As a result of consuming too many nitrates and elevating iodine levels, the affected individual may notice swelling in the thyroid gland and the onset of hyperthyroidism.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nitrates come in smoked foods like bacon <\/a>and sausages. Some states have nitrates circulating in the public water supply. Therefore, it’s a good idea to invest in a water filter for your home to filter out the pollutants in your drinking water. Some of the other foods that are naturally high in nitrates include the following.<\/p>\n\n\n\n