What diet is recommended for a patient with hypertension and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)?

From the Guidelines

A diet for patients with hypertension and hypothyroidism should emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, while being reduced in fat, as evidenced by the DASH combination diet 1. This dietary pattern is crucial in managing blood pressure and supporting overall health. The DASH diet recommends 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables per day, and 2 to 4 servings of low-fat dairy products per day, which are rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

• Key components of the diet include:
  • Whole grains
  • Poultry
  • Fish
  • Nuts
  • Low-fat dairy products
  • Fruits and vegetables
• The diet should be reduced in:
  • Fat
  • Red meat
  • Sweets
  • Sugar-containing beverages The DASH study found that this dietary pattern substantially reduced blood pressure in both nonhypertensive and hypertensive individuals, with corresponding blood pressure reductions of 11.4 and 5.5 mm Hg in persons with stage 1 hypertension 1. In addition to the DASH diet, it is essential to consider the specific nutritional needs of patients with hypothyroidism, including adequate iodine intake from sources such as iodized salt, seafood, dairy products, and eggs.
• Other essential nutrients for thyroid function include:
  • Selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, tuna, and whole grains
  • Consistent meal timing to help regulate metabolism
  • Adequate hydration with water rather than sugary or caffeinated beverages By following this dietary approach, patients with hypertension and hypothyroidism can effectively manage their blood pressure while supporting their overall thyroid health, as supported by the highest quality evidence from the DASH study 1.

From the Research

Dietary Recommendations for Hypertension

• A diet rich in plant-based foods, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and sodium intake within normal limits can be effective in the prevention and management of hypertension 2, 3, 4.
• The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• The DASH diet recommends greater intake of fruits, vegetables, and other potassium-rich foods that may replace sodium-rich processed foods and thereby influence blood pressure through overlapping metabolic pathways 5.

Key Components of the DASH Diet

• High intake of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products 2, 4, 5.
• Whole grains and fiber-rich foods 2, 4.
• Low intake of sodium, added sugars, and saturated fats 2, 3, 4.
• Emphasis on potassium-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products 5.

Benefits of the DASH Diet for Hypertension

• Significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure 3, 6.
• Reduction in body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference 3, 6.
• Improvement in lipid profiles, including reduced total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol 3.
• Potential reduction in cardiovascular risk factors and events 3, 6.

Considerations for Patients with Hypothyroidism

• While there is no direct evidence on the DASH diet's effects on hypothyroidism, a balanced diet that includes iodine-rich foods, such as dairy products and seafood, may be beneficial for patients with hypothyroidism.
• Patients with hypothyroidism should consult with their healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to develop a personalized diet plan that takes into account their individual needs and health status.