Is it beneficial or harmful to eliminate dairy products in hypothyroidism?

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Hypothyroidism and elimination of dairy products

Consumption of dairy products affects thyroid function in many ways. This issue does not create a problem for normal people; But it may be problematic for people with hypothyroidism. The probability of sensitivity to specific dairy proteins and lactose intolerance is higher among people with hypothyroidism, especially Hashimoto's type. For this reason, many experts recommend that patients with hypothyroidism minimize dairy consumption or eliminate it completely. Is this recommendation to eliminate dairy products in hypothyroidism useful for patients or may it harm them?

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Effect of dairy products on thyroid health

The relationship between dairy consumption and thyroid health is a complex issue that is under investigation. Current research has identified several possible mechanisms for how dairy consumption affects thyroid function, particularly in individuals with hypothyroidism.

Dairy and iodine absorption:

Many dairy products are a source of iodine. Iodine is essential for making thyroid hormones, and without enough iodine, the thyroid cannot produce adequate levels of T3 and T4. In this sense, dairy products are beneficial for thyroid health. But the problem arises when dairy products interfere with iodine absorption. In fact, high levels of calcium in dairy products can inhibit the absorption of iodine in the body. This will be problematic for people who are already iodine deficient or have thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism.

Dairy and autoimmune thyroid disease:

For people with autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the situation is more complicated. Consumption of dairy products by these people increases the inflammation of the body and worsens the autoimmune responses. Some people with autoimmune thyroid disease may experience symptoms such as increased inflammation, joint pain, or digestive problems when consuming dairy products. Even some experts believe that the consumption of dairy products may increase the risk of autoimmune thyroid disease (especially in people with genetic predisposition) due to its pro-inflammatory effects.

Lactose intolerance and thyroid health:

Some people with thyroid disorders may also experience lactose intolerance, which means the inability to digest lactose (the sugar found in milk). Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, gas and diarrhea. For people with hypothyroidism or other thyroid problems, these digestive problems can worsen and lead to more severe digestive discomfort and complications. This is especially important for people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Lactose intolerance is common in people with autoimmune thyroid disease; Because people with hypothyroidism are more prone to lactose intolerance due to slow digestion. About 76% of patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis also suffer from lactose intolerance.

Expert advice; Reduce or eliminate dairy?

Considering the possible effects of dairy products on thyroid function, as well as the high prevalence of sensitivity to its proteins and intolerance to milk sugar (lactose) in people with hypothyroidism, many experts recommend that these patients be cautious in consuming dairy products. Some doctors believe that dairy consumption should be limited as much as possible; While others recommend eliminating dairy entirely from the diet, especially for people with active autoimmune symptoms or related digestive issues.

These suggestions are due to evidence that dairy may increase inflammation, interfere with iodine absorption, and even interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine.

Consumption of dairy products with hypothyroidism

In case of hypothyroidism, pay attention to the following:

balanced consumption of dairy products:

For people who are lactose intolerant, moderate consumption of dairy products can be beneficial due to their iodine content. However, be aware of calcium levels and their potential effect on iodine absorption, and consume dairy products at a reasonable interval (at least 3 hours) from levothyroxine.

Consumption of dairy substitutes:

If you have lactose intolerance or autoimmune thyroid disease, it's best to try non-dairy alternatives. Many of these products are fortified with iodine and other essential nutrients; Therefore, they contribute to the optimal functioning of the thyroid.

Consultation with an expert:

The best recommendation is that those suffering from hypothyroidism should consult a specialist doctor before completely eliminating dairy products from their diet. Because the condition of hypothyroidism and the conditions related to it are different in different people, and the doctor can determine whether eliminating dairy products is beneficial or harmful by carefully examining the individual condition, symptoms, and test results. Also, dairy products contain important nutrients whose unnecessary removal leads to nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, in case of complete elimination of dairy products, it is necessary to use non-dairy substitutes and appropriate nutritional supplements under the supervision of a doctor.

Substitute dairy products in hypothyroidism diet

Coconut milk is considered as the best alternative to non-dairy milk for people with hypothyroidism; Because it is fully compatible with the Autoimmunity Protocol (AIP) diet. AIP is a restrictive diet designed to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto's. Other plant milks such as almond milk, hemp milk, oat milk, flax seed milk, soy milk, cashew milk are not allowed in the AIP diet; But they are better alternatives than cow's milk. Coconut yogurt or lactose-free dairy products are also suitable options for hypothyroid patients.

Can dairy products cause hypothyroidism?

Dairy does not directly cause hypothyroidism; But they may interfere with the production and absorption of thyroid hormone, especially in people who are iodine deficient or have autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's).

If I have thyroid problems, should I cut out dairy?

This depends on your individual symptoms and condition. If you have an autoimmune thyroid disease or lactose intolerance, reducing or eliminating dairy is likely to be in your best interest.

Is it safe to consume dairy products if you have Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

While there is no single version for everyone; But most people with Hashimoto's benefit from reducing dairy consumption (due to its potential to exacerbate inflammation).

Concluding remarks

The effect of dairy products on thyroid health is a complex issue and may have positive or negative effects depending on individual circumstances. Dairy products provide useful nutrients such as iodine and calcium. Iodine helps regulate thyroid function and maintain normal levels of thyroid hormones; But the abundant calcium in dairy products can bind to iodine and interfere with its absorption. The increase in inflammation caused by the consumption of dairy products and interference with levothyroxine drug absorption will also aggravate the condition of hypothyroid patients. For this reason, it is recommended that people with an underactive thyroid, especially Hashimoto's thyroiditis, eliminate dairy products from their diet or minimize their consumption.

1404-03-01

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