Dietary Management for Graves' Disease & Eye Complications

Graves disease is a thyroid disorder that in some cases affects the eyes. There are two main dietary considerations that should be factored into the diet of an individual with Graves ophthalmopathy. One is the determination of proper iodine intake, as iodine-rich foods affect the overproduction of thyroid. Secondly, because this is a thyroid condition, the treatment of the disease could lead to eating large amounts of food with little weight gain.

Foods Containing Iodine

• Foods that are rich in iodine content are salt, iodized, unionized, seasoned and sun evaporated; drinking water; kelp; squid; crabs; sole; clams; shrimp; shark; sea bass, lobsters; oysters; red snapper; beef liver; turkey; chicken; stew meat; hamburger; asparagus; broccoli; white onion; corn; brussels sprouts; peas; tomatos; Idaho potatos; carrots; green beans; spinach and ocre. These foods do not have to be completely avoided but should be taken into consideration as they may affect the disease's progression.

Things to Avoid

• Alcohol, smoking, caffeine and overprocessed foods should be avoided. The latter effects the immune system. Alcohol, smoking and caffeine have side effects on healthy people, so in the case of Graves disease, their effects have proven to exacerbate the condition.

Other Considerations

• Graves disease affects the endocrine system, and those diagnosed have to consider their diet as the disease may lead to easier weight gain with less food. A healthy diet and portion control should be implemented to avoid unwanted weight gain.