The Claim
Higher intake of ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased relative risk of autoimmune-related hypothyroidism, with a 6% greater increase in relative risk per unit increase in ultra-processed food intake among women using hormone replacement therapy compared to those not using it.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Women using hormone replacement therapy who consume more ultra-processed foods have a 6% higher relative risk of developing autoimmune-related hypothyroidism for each additional unit of ultra-processed food intake compared to women not using hormone replacement therapy.
See the scientific wording
The association between ultra-processed food intake and autoimmune-related hypothyroidism is stronger in women using hormone replacement therapy, with a 6% greater relative risk per unit increase in UPF intake compared to non-users, suggesting hormonal status may modify dietary effects on thyroid autoimmunity.
Eating a lot of ultra-processed foods damages the kidneys and disrupts cholesterol transport, which causes immune cells to become overactive and attack the thyroid gland, leading to hormone deficiency.
What the research says
1 studyWomen who take hormone therapy and eat a lot of ultra-processed foods have a slightly higher chance of developing an autoimmune thyroid problem than women not on hormone therapy, and this study found that exact link using real health data from thousands of people.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.