Goitrogensare naturally occurring chemicals that can disrupt the production of hormones in your thyroid.
Consuming large amounts of these substances may impact thyroid health.
Goitrogens are found in common foods like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, and kale).
Verywell / Emilie Dunphy
Watch Now: What Are Goitrogens?
What Are Goitrogens?
Goitrogens compete with iodine for thyroid absorption, which can interfere with normal thyroid function.
Foods Containing Goitrins and/or Thiocyanates
Certain foods are naturally high in goitrins and/or thiocyanates.
In very large quantities, goitrogens can cause agoiteror an enlarged thyroid.
They can also act like antithyroid drugs, slowing down your underactive thyroid and potentially causinghypothyroidism.
It’s not necessary to completely avoid soy foods.
Who should avoid goitrogenic foods?
Thyroid Conditions Unaffected by Goitrogens
Not everyone with a thyroid condition needs to be aware of goitrogens.
Summary
Goitrogens are compounds that can affect the normal function of the thryoid.
Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are examples of foods that contain goitrogens.
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