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Thyroid-friendly diet plan for type 2 diabetes

Managing type 2 diabetes with thyroid issues requires a delicate balance, and this diet plan provides just that. It focuses on foods that stabilize blood sugar levels and support thyroid health. By blending the needs of both conditions, this plan aims to make mealtime less stressful and more enjoyable, helping you stay on track without the guesswork.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Zucchini
  • Bell peppers
  • Asparagus
  • Carrots
  • Green beans
  • Blueberries

  • Strawberries
  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Avocado
  • Salmon
  • Chicken breast
  • Turkey breast
  • Lean beef
  • Sardines
  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt

  • Cottage cheese
  • Almonds
  • Chia seeds
  • Walnuts
  • Olive oil
  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Flaxseed
  • Green tea

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on June 16, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

A thyroid-friendly diet plan for type 2 diabetes aims to manage blood sugar levels while supporting thyroid health. This plan emphasizes whole foods, such as vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which help regulate glucose and provide steady energy. Foods rich in fiber, like legumes and non-starchy vegetables, can help maintain blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

It’s important to monitor carbohydrate intake and opt for complex carbs like sweet potatoes and quinoa over refined options. Healthy fats from sources like olive oil and fatty fish support overall health without spiking blood sugar. Avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks is essential. This balanced approach can help manage diabetes symptoms and support thyroid function, making it easier to maintain consistent energy levels throughout the day.

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Foods to eat

  • Non-Starchy Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, and bell peppers are low in carbs and high in nutrients.
  • Lean Proteins: Skinless chicken, fish, and tofu to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
  • Whole Grains: Quinoa, barley, and oats for their fiber and slow-digesting carbs.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, and nuts for stable energy levels.
  • Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offer antioxidants with a lower glycemic impact.
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Flaxseed will keep that bowel on the move.

Bernard Jensen, D.C., PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Refined Sugars: Soda, candy, and desserts can cause rapid blood sugar spikes.
  • White Flour Products: White bread, pasta, and pastries lack fiber and nutrients.
  • Fried Foods: High in unhealthy fats and calories, they can exacerbate diabetes symptoms.
  • High-Sugar Fruits: Bananas, grapes, and mangos can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
  • Processed Snacks: Chips and crackers often contain refined carbs and unhealthy fats.

Main benefits

Following a thyroid-friendly diet plan for type 2 diabetes can enhance your insulin sensitivity, helping you manage both diabetes and thyroid conditions more effectively. It focuses on foods that provide a steady energy release, which can reduce blood sugar spikes. This diet also supports better weight management, crucial for both thyroid and diabetes control. Furthermore, it helps reduce oxidative stress, improving overall health and minimizing the risk of diabetes-related complications.

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📊 Around 12% of the US population has diabetes (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Managing type 2 diabetes while eating thyroid-friendly doesn’t have to break the bank. Opt for whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins that are both affordable and blood sugar friendly. Bulk purchases of brown rice and beans can be a huge money saver. Fresh fruits and vegetables are great, but frozen ones can be just as good and often cheaper.

Make your own snacks like nuts or homemade veggie chips instead of buying prepackaged ones, which can be pricey and often less nutritious.

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Meal Plan for Thyroid-Friendly Diet Plan for Type 2 Diabetes

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with chia seeds and blueberries
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, spinach, and bell peppers
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and asparagus
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Calories: 1,500  Fat: 60g   Carbs: 130g   Protein: 120g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese with strawberries and flaxseed
  • Lunch: Turkey breast and avocado wrap in kale leaves with a side of green beans
  • Dinner: Lean beef stir-fry with broccoli, cauliflower, and brown rice
  • Snack: Orange slices with walnuts

Calories: 1,550  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 135g   Protein: 125g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Omelet with spinach, bell peppers, and avocado
  • Lunch: Lentil salad with quinoa, carrots, and zucchini
  • Dinner: Baked sardines with roasted cauliflower and green beans
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with chia seeds and strawberries

Calories: 1,520  Fat: 62g   Carbs: 132g   Protein: 122g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, blueberries, Greek yogurt, and flaxseed
  • Lunch: Chicken breast with brown rice, broccoli, and carrots
  • Dinner: Turkey breast with sweet potatoes and zucchini
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with apple slices

Calories: 1,540  Fat: 63g   Carbs: 137g   Protein: 123g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with flaxseed, walnuts, and strawberries
  • Lunch: Grilled salmon salad with kale, avocado, and quinoa
  • Dinner: Lean beef with lentils, bell peppers, and green beans
  • Snack: Orange slices with almonds

Calories: 1,560  Fat: 64g   Carbs: 138g   Protein: 124g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese with blueberries and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Turkey breast with brown rice, asparagus, and zucchini
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with spinach and sweet potatoes
  • Snack: Apple slices with walnuts

Calories: 1,530  Fat: 62g   Carbs: 136g   Protein: 122g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Omelet with kale, bell peppers, and avocado
  • Lunch: Sardines with quinoa, broccoli, and cauliflower
  • Dinner: Chicken breast with lentils, carrots, and green beans
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with strawberries

Calories: 1,550  Fat: 64g   Carbs: 137g   Protein: 123g

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.