Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about these health problems and the difficulty with your diet. There is no such thing as not eating a particular food stuff. It is all about taking everything in moderation. I cannot ask you not to eat salt because our bodies need sodium daily and this is the main source. so consuming salt cannot be completely stopped. Looking at your problems, they can all be explained by your low thyroid. i will suggest that you follow up with your doctor and make sure your thyroid is functioning well after treatment. This may be the simple magic pill you need t get the ankle swelling, high cholesterol, etc. Eating healthy is the key and that means everything in moderate quantities. Because I don t know where you are and what the local foos are, I would advice you meet your dietitian for advice on a balanced diet. I hope you find this helpful. I wish you well. Dr. Ditah, MD