What To Eat If You Have Thyroid-Related Weight Gain Hypothyroidism can result in weight gain, because reduced thyroid hormone levels slows down the basal metabolic rate, or BMR A lower BMR means the body burns fewer calories at rest, making it easier for excess calories to be stored as fat Experts suggest some types of food that you should include in your diet to help control thyroid-related weight gain Food rich in iodine: Seaweed, fish, dairy products, and iodised salt Selenium-rich food: Brazil nuts, fish, turkey and whole grains Fibre-rich food: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes Don't eat processed foods. They often contain additives and preservatives that may affect thyroid function Don't eat food high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. They can cause blood sugar to spike and lead to weight Don't eat foods high in saturated and trans fats Expert advice by dietician Umang Malhotra