- 1). Most doctors recommend that you take your thyroid medication first thing each morning on an empty stomach and wait at least one hour before eating and at least 2 hours if you take a vitamin containing iron. Make sure you take your medication with a large glass of water so that you don't find the medication getting stuck in your throat.
- 2). However there are interactions with thyroid medications that many of us either don't know or overlook.
- 3). Antacids (like Tums or Mylanta) may delay the absorption of your thyroid drug. Take at least 2 hours apart from when you take your thyroid medication.
- 4). Calcium is the same as antacids. Calcium can interfere with absorption therefore it is best to take calcium from 2 to 3 hours apart from taking your thyroid medication. The same goes for any calcium fortified orange juice, grapefruit juice or apple juice. Never take your thyroid pill by swallowing it with any calcium fortified juice.
- 5). Foods such as brussel sprouts, rutabagas, turnips, cauliflower and kale can have a disabling effect on thyroid function and should NOT be eaten in large quantities.
- 6). High Fiber diets can also be an issue. Anything that speeds up your digestive tract can have an effect on absorption of your thyroid medication. This doesn't mean you have to give up eating fruits and vegetables. It just means that if you aren't used to eating fruits and vegetables then you shouldn't overdo it now.
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