Artificial flavours and additives in packaged foods: Could they be affecting your thyroid health?

Packaged foods have become a regular feature of today's life due to their convenience, ease of storage and accessibility. These food products range from flavoured snacks, soft drinks, instant noodles and ready-to-eat meals are eaten by millions of people every day. But their high levels of artificial flavours, colours, preservatives and additives are becoming a topic of interest and how they could be impacting thyroid health.


The thyroid is a tiny gland located in the neck that is directly involved in regulating metabolism, body temperature, energy level and growth. Very small alterations in thyroid hormone levels can impact the entire body. Scientists are now investigating if some of these chemicals, which are frequently added to processed foods, can disrupt the body's hormonal system.


Several processed food additives and chemicals are suspected of being possible endocrine disruptors. These include bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, parabens, artificial sweeteners and tartrazine, erythrosine and other artificial food colours. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interact with the body's hormones in ways that could impact their production, release, or activity.


According to a study from 2022, individuals with higher intake of ultra-processed foods were at higher risk of developing subclinical hyperthyroidism. Other studies also looked at substances such as nitrates, nitrites, and perchlorate that can disrupt the uptake of iodine by the thyroid. They are also used in some processed meats, preservatives and food packaging.


In animal studies some additives have demonstrated the ability to change thyroid tissue or hormone markers. But researchers caution that the results do not always translate to humans. There is currently no solid evidence that artificial flavours or additives are the sole cause of thyroid disease.


However, professionals recommend caution. Eating more whole foods and few highly processed foods, reading food labels, getting enough iodine in their diet, and avoiding over time could help contribute to healthier thyroids in the long run.

Dr. Aaryin Memon, Clinical Nutritionist, Bhailal General Amin Hospital, Vadodara