DiscoverMy Thyroid HealthEp. 234: Do You Really Have to Take Thyroid Medication on an Empty Stomach?
Ep. 234: Do You Really Have to Take Thyroid Medication on an Empty Stomach?

Ep. 234: Do You Really Have to Take Thyroid Medication on an Empty Stomach?

Update: 2025-10-21
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For decades, doctors have told patients with hypothyroidism to take their thyroid medication first thing in the morning — on an empty stomach — and wait up to an hour before eating or drinking coffee. ☕ But is that the only way to make your thyroid meds work?

In this episode, we break down the science behind thyroid medication absorption — and reveal what recent research says about timing flexibility. You’ll learn why food, coffee, calcium, and iron can interfere with your medication, and how alternative dosing schedules may make life easier without sacrificing effectiveness.

💊 We cover:

  • Why the “empty stomach” rule became standard advice

  • How much absorption actually changes with food or coffee

  • What studies show about taking thyroid medication with breakfast

  • The growing evidence supporting bedtime dosing

  • How to space supplements like iron and calcium for best results

  • Why consistency is the most important factor of all

🎧If you’re tired of the morning medication routine, tune in to find out if this episode could change how you take your thyroid pills for good.


LEARN MORE

You can learn more about the topic at the Paloma blog: 

Morning Thyroid Medication: Fasting or With Breakfast?

https://www.palomahealth.com/learn/morning-thyroid-medication-fasting-breakfast 


ABOUT PALOMA HEALTH 


⁠⁠Paloma Health ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠is an online medical practice focused on treating hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, perimenopause, menopause, and hormonal weight gain. From online visits with your provider to easy prescription management and lab orders, we create personalized treatment plans for you. 

Become a member⁠, or try our at-home test kit and experience a whole new level of hypothyroid care. Use code PODCAST to save $30 at checkout.

Disclaimer: The $30 discount is only valid for first-time Paloma Health members and test kit users. Coupon must be entered at the time of checkout. 


Become a Paloma Member:

https://www.palomahealth.com/pricing-hypothyroidism 


Paloma Complete Thyroid Blood Test Kit:

https://www.palomahealth.com/home-thyroid-blood-test-kit


🎙️ Follow Paloma Health for more expert-backed insights on thyroid and hormonal health, medication management, and lifestyle tips to help you feel your best.

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Ep. 234: Do You Really Have to Take Thyroid Medication on an Empty Stomach?

Ep. 234: Do You Really Have to Take Thyroid Medication on an Empty Stomach?

Paloma Health