Could one prevent this metabolic disorder?

Yes, thyroid disorder(s) can be prevented by having a diet which contains food promoting thyroid health and as well as keeping off food which threatens it.

Food for Promoting Thyroid Function (especially for those with HYPERthyroidsim)

Seaweed Almost 0 calories, low in fat, and contains high concentrations of minerals. Helps to prevent growth of tumors.	Rich in iodine (helps in manufacturing thyroid hormones).     Reduces cholesterol. Those with hypothyroidism face increased blood cholesterol level, thus, seaweed reduces effects.
Coconut Oil  Processed hydrogenated vegetable oils are to blame for many modern diseases. Easy to ingest, can be used as a spread, cooking or just taken in raw.	Stimulates thyroid hormone production & metabolism.             Contains saturated fat (promotes thyroid function).             Helps in weight loss (for those with hypothyroidism).             Reduces cholesterol. Those with hypothyroidism face increased blood cholesterol level, thus, coconut oil reduces effects.
Shellfish	Simply rich in iodine.

Food for Suppressing Thyroid Function (especially for those with HYPOthyroidism)

Fermented Soy Foods	Strong suppressor of thyroid hormones (more effective than anti-thyroid drugs).
Raw Cruciferous Vegetables	Suppressor of thyroid hormones.             Contain goitrogens that interfere with iodine uptake.
Millet Bajra (millet) has high fat content, thus, having a high nutritional content. This grain food is used to feed poultry.	Cooking may lessen its antithyroid effects.

Food To Avoid For Thyroid Health

Gluten-containing Grains	Contains anti-thyroid antibodies.
Unfermented Soy	Rich in concentrated isoflavones & genistein (contribute to autoimmune thyroid disease).
Coffee	Contain goitrogens that interferes with iodine uptake.