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Diet and Hyperthyroidism


Medically Reviewed by
  • Deborah Kurzrock

Question

I recently was diagnosed with Graves's disease. I also have gluten intolerance and have been eating some gluten foods. Do you think that my diet contributed to hyperthyroidism?

Answer

I do not think that your diet contributed to your condition of hyperthyroidism. There is no relation between the two conditions that I am aware of. Graves disease is an immune system disorder that results in the over production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones affect a number of different body systems including metabolism, heart and nervous system function, muscle strength and body temperature.

Gluten intolerance is a digestive condition triggered by eating gluten. You did not mention if you have Celiac disease or a sensitivity to gluten. Celiac disease can be diagnosed by a blood test that detects antibodies that are present when a person with celiac disease has eaten gluten.

Although the two are not related, they can both be helped by diet and healthy eating choices.

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