It affects nine times more women of all ages, but occurs more frequently in middle-aged women.

“As in all diseases, diet plays a big role in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as the over-intake or non-intake of some nutritional elements can affect the symptoms of the disease and the daily life of the sufferer,” says Mr. Evmenis P. Karafyllidis BSC (HONS), MSC, NYSCDN Clinical Dietitian – NutritionistDirector of Dietetics at Metropolitan General, who lists the foods that should be preferred and those that should be avoided by Hashimoto’s sufferers:

Foods recommended for patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:

• Fruits: red fruits (berries), pears, apples, peaches, citrus fruits, pineapple, bananas
• Non-starchy vegetables: zucchini, artichokes, tomatoes, asparagus, carrots, peppers, broccoli, arugula, mushrooms
• Starchy vegetables: sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas, and pumpkin
• Klow fat: avocado, olive oil
• Dairy products: full-fat (and goat’s) yogurt
• Animal proteins: salmon, eggs, turkey, shrimp, chicken
• Gluten-free products: brown rice, oats – has a very small amount of gluten -, quinoa, brown rice noodles
• Seeds – nuts: cashews, almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, natural peanut butter, tahini and other nut butters
• Legumes: chickpeas, black beans, lentils
• Dairy substitutes (fortified with calcium and/or vitamin D): coconut milk, coconut yogurt, almond milk
• Spices, herbs and seasonings: turmeric, basil, rosemary, paprika, saffron, black pepper
• Other items: honey, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, etc.
• Drinks: water, unsweetened tea, sparkling water, etc.

On the contrary, the restriction of the following foods can help improve your overall health and reduce symptoms due to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:

• Sweets and other packaged foods: soft drinks, energy drinks, cakes, ice creams, cookies, candies, sugary cereals, table sugar
• Fast food: all fast food options (pizza – souvlaki – burger etc.)
• Fried: french fries, fried chicken, etc.
• Refined carbohydrates: white pasta, white bread, white flour tortillas, pretzels, etc.
• Processed foods and meats: frozen ready meals, meals requiring microwave preparation, bacon, sausage and other deli meats.
• Seeds and foods containing gluten: wheat, barley, rye, crackers, bread

Attention: “This particular category of food is not prohibited. However, it is recommended to limit the consumption of these products” concludes Mr. Karafyllidis.