Can a pregnant and hypothyroid patient have millets?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Is eating millet by a hypothyroid patient good or bad for health? I have read about this online. Many of the sites say that eating millet is not good for patients with hypothyroidism. What is your opinion about this doctor? I have millets like finger millet, sorghum, and pearl millet in my daily routine. Which is very good to take and safe during pregnancy in hypothyroidism?

Please help.

Answered by Sumiya Sulthana

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

This iron-rich superfood has enough calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins, which are all necessary for healthy thyroid health. An added benefit for people with hypothyroidism who are vulnerable to insulin resistance is that Ragi (finger millet) aids in regulating blood sugar levels. Soaking, sprouting, or fermenting the millets before eating them is important. Otherwise, the phytic acid present in them could reduce the absorption of other nutrients. People having hypothyroidism should avoid millet consumption as they contain goitrogens that may interfere with iodine absorption.

Can certain diets help people with hypothyroidism?

Following a nutritious diet is important for everyone, but studies show that certain dietary interventions can have specific benefits for people with hypothyroidism. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. It is an autoimmune disease that leads to the gradual destruction of thyroid tissue by white blood cells or lymphocytes. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is more common in women and often develops between ages 30 and 50, though men and younger people can develop the disease, too. Many studies have shown that dietary changes can benefit people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis in several ways. This includes improving thyroid function, promoting a healthy body weight, and reducing hypothyroid symptoms.

Gluten-free diets, autoimmune elimination diets, and anti-inflammatory diets are some of the dietary patterns shown to be helpful for those with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. For example, gluten-free diets may help improve thyroid function. Additionally, diets high in vegetables and fruits could protect against cellular damage and promote healthy body weight maintenance in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Some studies also suggest that elimination diets, like a modified paleo diet, could help reduce symptoms such as fatigue and improve the quality of life in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Following a nutritious, calorie-controlled diet can also help promote weight loss, which is something that people with hypothyroidism may have difficulty with. What is more, nutrient deficiencies can worsen hypothyroid symptoms, like fatigue, anxiety, and low mood. Some deficiencies that may be responsible for worsening these symptoms include:

  • Vitamin D.

  • Zinc.

  • Thiamine.

  • Vitamin B6.

  • Iodine.

  • Magnesium.

  • Selenium.

Because of this, it is essential to try to maintain a well-rounded diet that provides optimal amounts of both macronutrients and micronutrients. In general, a diet rich in nutritious foods and low in pro-inflammatory foods with added sugar or ultra-processed foods can be helpful for many people with hypothyroidism.

I hope this information helps you.

Revert in case of queries.

Regards.

Answered bySumiya Sulthana

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At August 26, 2024
Reviewed AtMay 6, 2025

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