Supplements to Support Thyroid Function: A Comprehensive Guide

The thyroid gland regulates many bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and brain function. When the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, it can lead to hypothyroidism, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression. On the other hand, when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, it can lead to hyperthyroidism, which can cause symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, and rapid heart rate.

Vitamins and Minerals to Support the Thyroid

While supplements can't cure hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, some may help support thyroid function and alleviate some associated symptoms. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking supplements, as they may interact with medications or underlying health conditions.

Iodine: The Mineral with a Balancing Act

Iodine is a vital mineral that is pivotal in producing thyroid hormones. But, if you thought you could go ahead and consume iodine-rich foods with abandon, think again. Extremes in intake, like too little or too much, can be catastrophic. 

Inadequate iodine may cause hypothyroidism, while excessive iodine may aggravate autoimmune thyroid disease. To avoid unwanted consequences, it is always wise to seek professional advice on how much iodine you should consume.^[1]

Food sources of iodine include seaweed, iodized salt, fish, and dairy products. For people who don't get enough iodine from their diet, iodine supplements may help support thyroid function. However, the dosage should be carefully monitored, as excessive iodine intake can lead to hyperthyroidism.^[2]

Discover the power of Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that boosts thyroid hormone metabolism and is a natural antioxidant. With its ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, this mineral could hold the key to fighting thyroid dysfunction. Exciting new studies have shown that supplementing with selenium may improve thyroid function in individuals who suffer from autoimmune thyroid disease and subclinical hypothyroidism. Don't miss out on the numerous health benefits Selenium has to offer!^[3]

Food sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, poultry, and eggs. However, the selenium content of foods can vary depending on the soil where the food was grown. Therefore, selenium supplements may be a more reliable source of selenium.

Zinc

The mineral Zinc plays a crucial role in many important bodily processes, including the creation of thyroid hormones. Scientific research has linked a lack of Zinc to hypothyroidism, but the good news is that adding Zinc supplements to our diet may support our thyroid function.^[4]

Food sources of zinc include oysters, beef, poultry, beans, and nuts. Zinc supplements are also available, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.

Vitamin D

Did you know one little vitamin could do so much for your body? Vitamin D is key in maintaining healthy bones, boosting your immune system, and regulating hormones. But did you also know that a lack of this vitamin could be linked to a common cause of hypothyroidism? Thankfully, studies show that vitamin D supplementation might just help improve thyroid function in those with autoimmune thyroid disease and subclinical hypothyroidism. It's amazing what a little sunshine vitamin can do for your health!^[5]

Food sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods. However, many people don't get enough vitamin D from their diet, especially during winter when sun exposure is limited. Therefore, vitamin D supplements may be necessary, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.

Adaptogenic Herbs That Support the Thyroid

Adaptogenic herbs are plants used for centuries in traditional medicine to help the body adapt to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. These herbs work by modulating the body's stress response system, which includes the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and promoting balance in the body.

One of the key benefits of adaptogenic herbs is their potential to support thyroid function. The thyroid gland is an important part of the endocrine system that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development. When the thyroid gland is underactive (hypothyroidism), it can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and depression. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and heart palpitations.

Research suggests that some adaptogenic herbs may help support healthy thyroid function by balancing thyroid hormone levels in the body. For example, ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, has been found to stimulate thyroid hormone production in animal studies and improve thyroid hormone levels in humans with subclinical hypothyroidism. Rhodiola, another adaptogenic herb, has been found to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones and increase thyroid hormone levels in people with mild hypothyroidism.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. Also known as Withania somnifera, Ashwagandha has been found to stimulate thyroid hormone production in animal studies and improve thyroid hormone levels in humans with subclinical hypothyroidism. It has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, benefiting people with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. It may also help improve thyroid function by reducing inflammation.^[6]

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a herb traditionally used for its medicinal properties, including its potential to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and regulate thyroid function.

Research studies have shown that lemon balm has anti-anxiety effects, which may be attributed to its ability to increase levels of the brain's neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Lemon balm may also help to improve sleep quality and duration, as it has mild sedative effects.

In addition, some studies have suggested that lemon balm may help regulate thyroid hormone levels and reduce symptoms of hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland. Hyperthyroidism can cause tremors, rapid heart rate, and anxiety. Lemon balm may help reduce these symptoms by inhibiting the action of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which regulate thyroid hormone production.^[7]

L-Carnitine

L-carnitine might be the answer if you're looking for a natural way to ease hyperthyroidism symptoms like nervousness, tremors, and heart palpitations. This amino acid steps up to the plate by stopping the action of pesky thyroid hormone at the cellular level. Bye-bye thyrotoxicosis, hello feeling like your best self again.^[8]

Magnesium

Magnesium is essential in many bodily functions, including regulating thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland relies on a steady supply of magnesium to function properly and produce adequate levels of hormones.

People with hyperthyroidism, a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland, may benefit from magnesium supplementation. Magnesium has been shown to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality, which can benefit people with hyperthyroidism who often experience symptoms such as nervousness and insomnia.

Magnesium deficiency has also been linked to hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. Inadequate magnesium levels can lead to decreased thyroid hormone production and impaired thyroid function, which can contribute to the development of hypothyroidism.

Therefore, ensuring enough magnesium in your diet or supplementation supports optimal thyroid function and overall health. Adults' recommended daily magnesium intake is around 400-420 mg daily for men and 310-320 mg for women. However, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements.^[9]

Food sources of magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, and beans. Magnesium supplements are also available, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, supplements can be a great way to provide supplemental support to the body when dealing with thyroid health issues. Whether it’s for general wellness or specific hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism-related conditions, taking the right type of supplement can be instrumental in promoting better health. However, it is essential to discuss any supplement plans with a healthcare provider before taking them, as they may not mix favorably with medications or your medical history. 

Additionally, while they may help alleviate some symptoms associated with thyroid issues, they should never replace medical treatment – instead, use them as an added layer of support for your own well-being. Ultimately, consulting a doctor is still the best way to assess individual needs and address potential health concerns related to your thyroid health.

References:

1. Fallah R, et al. The Role of Micronutrients in the Management of Hypothyroidism. Thyroid Res Pract. 2018;15(1):3-9.
2. Zimmermann MB. The Importance of Adequate Iodine during Pregnancy and Infancy. World Rev Nutr Diet. 2016;114:50-57.
3. Rayman MP. Selenium and thyroid function. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2008;52(11):1235-1242.
4. Ngo DTM, et al. Zinc and its importance for human health: An integrative review. J Hum Nutr Food Sci. 2018;6(1):110-119.
5. Chaker L, et al. Vitamin D and autoimmune thyroid disease: Facts and unresolved questions. Eur Thyroid J. 2013;2(3):183-191.
6. Panossian A, et al. Adaptogens in Mental and Behavioral Disorders. Psychiatr Clin North Am. 2013;36(1):49-64.
7. Miroddi M, et al. Systematic Review of Clinical Trials Assessing Pharmacological Properties of Salvia Species on Memory, Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets. 2016;15(4):429-440.
8. Benvenga S, et al. L-Carnitine: A Nutritional Supplement with Various Forms, Health Benefits, and Molecular Mechanism of Action in the Human Body. Nutrients. 2021;13(2):581.
9. Guerrero-Romero F, Rodriguez-Moran M. Low serum magnesium levels and metabolic syndrome. Acta Diabetol. 2002;39(4):209-213.