Introduction
Thyroid issues, such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer, are quite common. The treatment for thyroid conditions varies depending on the specific disease and can involve medications like thyroid hormone replacement, surgery, and procedures such as radiation therapy for thyroid cancer. In addition to conventional treatments, research suggests that dietary changes and supplements might benefit certain thyroid diseases. However, it is important to note that some supplements could negatively affect thyroid health.
Do Supplements Help With Thyroid Disorders?
As per the British Thyroid Foundation, no specific dietary supplement can cure thyroid disorders. Maintaining a well-rounded diet with the right essential nutrients is the best approach to support thyroid health. However, for individuals facing challenges in adhering to a balanced diet, such as those on restrictive diets, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with a thyroid condition, or individuals with other health issues, taking additional nutrients in supplement form may be beneficial.
Individuals must consult with their doctor before incorporating any nutritional supplements. A doctor can determine the appropriate dosage and evaluate whether the supplements may impact thyroid blood test results. It is important to note that excessive intake of certain nutrients can have adverse effects on thyroid health, lead to side effects, or pose general health risks.
Which Supplements Are Beneficial for Thyroid Disorder?
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Iodine: Iodine deficiency is linked to thyroid disorders. Maintaining proper iodine levels is crucial for a healthy thyroid. The recommended daily iodine intake is 150 micrograms (mcg) for adults over 19 years old. However, teens and pregnant individuals need slightly more at 220 mcg, and breastfeeding individuals require 290 mcg. Excessive iodine from supplements can lead to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). For individuals with these conditions, taking iodine supplements may be unnecessary or potentially harmful.
Doctors commonly prescribe medications containing hormones T3 and T4, which rely on iodine for their production. Some commercially available supplements, however, may contain higher doses of T3 and T4 than prescribed by doctors, leading to iatrogenic thyrotoxicosis, a potentially fatal condition. Natural food sources of iodine include seaweed, cod, Greek yogurt, and eggs.
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Kelp: Individuals should avoid supplements and natural boosters containing kelp, as they may adversely affect thyroid function. People with thyroid disease may not experience any health benefits from consuming kelp and should exercise caution when considering such supplements.
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Selenium: The body relies on selenium for antioxidant function and regulating thyroid hormones' metabolism. A selenium deficiency can lead to thyroid dysfunction.
However, per the National Institutes of Health (NIH)Trusted Source, there is not enough evidence to confirm whether selenium supplements can reduce the risk of thyroid disorders. Selenium supplements might be beneficial for individuals with Hashimoto’s disease. Nevertheless, excessive selenium intake in those without a deficiency could result in various conditions, including hyperglycemia, atherosclerosis, or cancer. Dietary sources of selenium encompass seafood, meat, eggs, dairy products, bread, and cereals.
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Zinc: The body depends on zinc for proper thyroid function, as it plays a key role in synthesizing and metabolizing thyroid hormones. However, prolonged excessive zinc intake may result in digestive symptoms or lead to low copper levels and compromised immunity. Dietary sources rich in zinc include oysters, red meat, poultry, seafood such as crab and lobsters, and fortified breakfast cereals.
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Iron: Iron deficiency anemia can contribute to hypothyroidism. However, excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, diminish zinc absorption, and interfere with medications. For instance, iron tablets and multivitamins containing iron may impact the body's ability to absorb thyroxine, a medication taken by some individuals with hypothyroidism, goiter, or thyroid cancer. As a result, some doctors recommend waiting a couple of hours after taking thyroxine before considering an iron supplement. Iron can be incorporated into one's diet by consuming foods such as lean meat, seafood, poultry, fortified breakfast cereals, white beans, lentils, spinach, kidney beans, and peas.
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Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a commonly used dietary supplement that assists the body in regulating calcium and phosphate production. Certain studies suggest potential connections between low vitamin D levels and thyroid cancer, as well as autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease. However, these links are inconclusive, and researchers emphasize the need for further studies to validate them. Excessive intake of vitamin D can be risky, primarily through supplement use, and may lead to kidney failure. To increase vitamin D levels, individuals can include the following foods: Fatty fish, fish liver oils, and fortified foods like milk, orange juice, and cereals.
Which Supplements Are Beneficial for Hashimoto’s Disease?
Hashimoto’s disease, a prevalent cause of hypothyroidism in the United States, is an autoimmune disorder. In this condition, the body's antibodies attack the thyroid gland, impairing its ability to produce enough thyroid hormones. For individuals with Hashimoto’s disease, the following supplements may support a healthy thyroid function:
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Selenium: A 2018 study discovered that providing 200 mcg of selenium supplements daily could reduce thyroid antibodies in people with Hashimoto’s, with minimal side effects.
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Myo-inositol: This sugar aids in thyroid function. A 2017 study revealed that administering 600 milligrams (mg) of Myo-Inositol and 83 mcg of selenium to individuals with Hashimoto’s could promote thyroid health.
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Iron: People with Hashimoto’s disease, particularly menstruating females, are more prone to iron deficiency.
Which Supplements Are Beneficial for Grave’s Disease?
For individuals with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder leading to hyperthyroidism, proper treatment is crucial to prevent serious health issues affecting the heart, muscles, bones, and potential complications during pregnancy. Consider the following supplements that may benefit individuals with Graves' disease:
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Selenium: Supplementation with selenium may enhance the function of certain thyroid medications and support thyroid health in Graves’ disease. Consultation with a doctor about initiating a 6-month trial period of selenium is advisable.
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Vitamin D: Individuals with Graves’ disease may be more prone to vitamin D deficiency. Supplementation or incorporating vitamin D-rich foods into the diet could help address this issue. Additional research is needed to confirm other potential benefits of vitamin D in Graves’ disease.
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Vitamin B12: There is a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency in people with Graves’ disease, and its symptoms may overlap with those of thyroid dysfunction. Discussing vitamin B12 supplements or dietary intake with a doctor is recommended to ensure adequate levels.
Individuals with Graves’ disease need to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any supplement regimen to determine appropriate dosages and potential interactions with other medications.
Which Supplements Are Beneficial for Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer is rare, making up only one to four percent of all cancers in the United States, mostly arising from follicular cells in the thyroid. Traditional treatments include surgery, radiation, and other therapies, but diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes might help improve outcomes and quality of life. Some research suggests that omega-3 fats, curcumin, L-carnitine, quercetin, melatonin, resveratrol, selenium, inositol, zinc, and vitamins C, E, A, and D could be beneficial for thyroid cancer. Correcting iodine deficiency may also help prevent more aggressive forms of thyroid cancer.
While these nutrients show promise, human studies on their effectiveness for thyroid cancer are lacking. Before using these supplements, it is important to consult the healthcare provider or an oncology nutrition specialist for personalized advice based on the diet, overall health, and ongoing treatments.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Taking Supplements?
It is advisable to steer clear of thyroid-specific supplement blends unless explicitly recommended by the healthcare provider. The intake of these supplements could potentially harm the thyroid and contribute to thyroid conditions. Nevertheless, numerous vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements have demonstrated positive effects in enhancing thyroid function, alleviating disease symptoms, and improving the overall quality of life for individuals with thyroid-related conditions. For those dealing with Hashimoto’s disease, Graves’ disease, thyroid cancer, or any other thyroid gland-related condition, it is recommended to collaborate with a qualified healthcare provider specializing in thyroid conditions. This is particularly crucial for individuals currently on medications. Many supplements, particularly herbal products, have the potential to interact with commonly prescribed medications, posing a risk of dangerous side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer, are common, with various treatment options available. While dietary supplements may enhance thyroid function and overall well-being, caution is needed. Specific supplements, like iodine, selenium, zinc, and vitamins, may have benefits, but excessive intake or thyroid-specific blends can be harmful. For those with Hashimoto's disease, Graves' disease, or thyroid cancer, collaboration with a healthcare provider is essential to determine suitable supplements and avoid potential interactions with medications.
