Lemon Water with Hypothyroidism

by Himani
(India)

Question: I was diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism since I gained a lot of weight after my second delivery.......

I just want to know whether it is safe to have warm lemon water on empty stomach for those who have hypothyroidism?

WBH response:

As always with any diagnosed medical condition, it is important to seek the advice of your doctor before making any dietary changes.

In general, I can say that drinking lemon water may help to alkalize your body and provide numerous health benefits as well as improved immunity.

From my own research I have found that some health experts believe that one of the primary causes of an underactive thyroid is due to some type of problem with the immune system.

According to the MayoClinic.com, “Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain important hormones. . . . Hypothyroidism upsets the normal balance of chemical reactions in your body. It seldom causes symptoms in the early stages, but, over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.”

Other symptoms of underactive thyroid include fatigue, dry skin, hoarseness, thinning hair, elevated blood cholesterol, increased sensitivity to cold, and many others.

As you may know, iodide is an important nutrient for optimal thyroid health. Your thyroid gland collects any iodide you consume from your food and beverages, including lemon water.

Rich sources of iodide include sea vegetables, especially kelp, as well as sea foods such as shrimp, haddock, salmon, sardines, clams and oysters. Iodide is also found in lemons, oranges, grapefruit and pineapple, garlic and onions, beef liver and eggs, as well as leafy green vegetables (kale, spinach, and dark green lettuces).

I will also say that from my personal experience, optimal hydration is critical to restoring and maintaining hormonal balance in the body. Adding lemon juice to water once or twice a day, in moderation, provides the additional health benefits as outlined in the articles and visitor feedback on this site.

To answer your question, is it safe to drink lemon water in the morning on an empty stomach if you have hypothyroidism?

My simple answer is that I cannot think of any reason why it would not be safe, as long as you do not have a citrus allergy or any type of throat, stomach of esophageal ulcer.

If you are taking any medications, then you should definitely consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.

However, please remember that lemons are a natural food, not a concentrated herb or supplement. Most people drink orange juice, grapefruit juice, cranberry juice without any concern for safety.

Excellent Resource:

Thyroid Hormones: Mastering the Importance of the Thyroid

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