[appreciate_the_help]

#1019191

Can a change in prescribed birth control pills cause a dramatic swing in hyperthyroidism? Is there a cookbook or food guideline book for people with hyperthyroidism?

[Jake_George]

#1069964

On the birth control question I have no idea. That is a great question to ask your pharmacist. They will know the answer or know where to find it for you.

As for a good cookbook? The Atkins diet is a good one for us. We try to limit our kelp and soy, otherwise it is a great one to follow for us.

[cathycnm]

#1069965

Dear Appreciate – The birth control pills should not have a dramatic impact on your thyroid. I don’t know what sort of symptoms you are having, but I would suggest letting the person who prescribed these know ASAP. There are some serious side effects that contraceptives can have for anyone and these need to be caught as soon as possible. Hope that helps – let us know how it goes. Cathy, RN, APN

[Ski]

#1069966

Since birth control pills are made of reproductive hormone, they can have an affect on your thyroid hormone levels. I do not know the precise details, but it can affect your levels (same as symptoms are "amped" during our monthly cycle, and how our levels can change during puberty, pregnancy and menopause). Whatever medication you are taking for hyperthyroidism (either ATDs, or replacement hormone after ablation), you should get your levels checked about a month after beginning birth control pills just to make sure your levels haven’t changed, and adjust your meds if necessary.

[Kimberly]

#1069967

I have read that birth control pills can bind or "inactivate" our thyroid hormone, which could potentially lower your Free T4. I agree that regular blood work and a chat with your pharmacist is a good idea.

On the diet issue, I do agree that we need extra protein to rebuild lost muscle mass. However, in popular culture, some people interpret the Atkins diet to mean "all you can eat bacon, eggs, and steak" — I probably wouldn’t go that route. ” title=”Razz” />

I personally find that I do best with a lowfat diet that includes a variety of whole, unprocessed foods…lots of fruits, veggies, lean meats, and whole grains. I do consume some dairy, but I have cut way back due to the iodine content. Also, I read the label on everything that I buy, and if there are ingredients that I can’t pronounce, I (usually) put the package back on the shelf.

Best of luck!

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