Question:
How can I get protein when I am on Synthroid?

I had an open RNY 3 years ago. I have developed a major problem with my thyroid and now I am on Synthroid. (Generic, but in this short time, it is really working!!!) I'm not big into meat and was eating Boca burgers, etc. to get my protein, but I keep hearing that soy and hypothyroid do not mix well together, that they bond or something and the Synthroid will not do a proper job. See, I had wondered if the same rules apply with a bypass patient. If so, I will avoid the soy, I hate that I gained weight after losing over 130 pounds after my bypass (I gained about 30-40 back so far in a few short months). But I need my protein. Can I still eat other legumes like pinto and kidney beans? Thank you for any help given!    — Tracydarlin (posted on April 9, 2006)

April 9, 2006
you should try whey protein , it is supposed to be more beneficial to us anyway. Good luck. Pam
   — sunnie

April 9, 2006
Tracy, You're right - soy does interfere with thyroid function! If you are on thyroid medication it is best to heartily avoid it! Also be aware of the fact that walnuts can interfere with it; as can ferrous sulfate and calcium carbonate. It is okay to continue to eat pinto and kidney beans - but you should make sure it's not in close proximity to taking your thyroid medication. They are both very high in dietary fiber (which is good for you) - which should not be consumed close to the time that you take your thyroid medication. Hope this helps some! Blessings, dina
   — Dina McBride

April 9, 2006
I'm on synthyroid and my endo told me not to take it with vitamins, iron, calcium or coffee. I take it before bed or in the middle of the night. I haven't heard not to take it with soy or protein. Like suggested, try some whey protein shakes to get your protein. good luck!
   — SJWendy

April 10, 2006
Thyroid hormone binds to the soy protein molecules. I worked with a slightly built woman who was vegetarian and ate lots and lots of soy products - and wound up with a TSH of 15! After I had half of my thyroid removed, my TSH "climbed" to 2.93 and I felt terrible and gained weight. Now my TSH is back down around 1.0, which is just right for me,
   — koogy

April 10, 2006
I have had hypothyroid for 25 years and since my wls in December, it has been fine. The meds are being absorbed and all my bloodwork has been ok. I suggest taking your thyroid meds first thing in the morning. Wait an hour before eating anything. (Liquids are fine) Take vitamins after four hours, so I normally take them with lunch. (or sooner if I got up very early) I don't consume very much soy but I do use whey protein supplements and they seem to be doing their thing. Your thyroid functions will need to be monitored on a regular basis and this can be done when you have your normal bloodwork run. It is amazing how quickly you can feel better after being diagnosed and treated for hypothyroid! Good luck.
   — LauraA

April 13, 2006
www.Protica.com has 2.7 oz vials with 25 grams of protein in each. This will help with getting the required amount of protein in. I recommend ordering the 4 assorted vials and see which one taste the best for you. I looks expensive, but you have to figure how much does it cost for your normal food for say 2 days (4 vials) or 12 days (case)? It evens out. You wont have to take this the rest of your life, just the 4-6 weeks or so.
   — tweazee