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Goitrogens are naturally-occurring substances that can interfere with function of the thyroid gland. If the thyroid gland is having difficulty making thyroid hormone, it may enlarge (referred to as a goiter) as a way of trying to compensate for inadequate hormone production. The two categories of foods that have been associated with problematic thyroid hormone production is soybean-related foods and cruciferous vegetables. There are a few other foods as well that do not fit these categories such as millet, strawberries, and peaches that also contain goitrogens. While some people report severe hypothyroid symptoms when eating such foods. Some have no problems at all or only experience symptoms when eating specific kinds. As a rule of thumb I personally do not eliminate foods unless I have problems with them. Such foods offer a variety of healthful benefits. Keeping moderation and variety in mind is really the key. It is thought that the enzymes required for production of goitrogens in the plant are destroyed by cooking. This offers the hypothyroid patient yet another avenue of being able to eat these foods more safely without disturbing the delicate hormonal balance. On the flip side some of these foods can be helpful in treating the hyperthyroid patient. Below is a list of foods that inhibit thyroid hormone production. Bamboo shoots, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, horseradish, lima beans, maize, mustard, rutabaga, sweet potatoes, turnips, kohlrabi, and the oilseeds rapeseed and canola. Millet, cassava, strawberries, apricots, cherries, peaches, pears, almonds, peanuts, walnuts, radishes, soybean and soy products, tofu and spinach. To learn more about foods we highly recommend The World's Healthiest Foods website by George Mateljan.
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