Supplements for thyroid health may address root causes of a thyroid disease.
People can avoid medication by addressing hypothyroidism through lifestyle and supplement changes.
Later in this article, we’ll discuss diagnosing thyroid disorders from their root causes. You can also read this post about diagnosis primary hypothyroidism . Spoiler – Our blood tests are more than just measuring TSH thyroid hormone levels. This will help determine if your thyroid is healthy.
Note – It is important not to confuse hypothyroidism with hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid. While each condition has its own symptoms, they can both be caused by autoimmune disorders.
This article will clarify the condition that each supplement can treat. Sometimes it is both.
Schedule a complimentary phone consultation if you are suffering from hypothyroidism. Many times, hypothyroidism is easily reversed.
Comparison of Synthetic and Natural Treatments Synthetic Treatments vs. Natural
You have both synthetic and natural options for balancing your thyroid. Natural thyroid supplements are recommended as an integral approach to health. Prescription medications should not be used.
The term “synthetic Thyroid Treatments” is often used to refer to levothyroxine, a synthetic T4 that acts and looks like the one produced in your thyroid. To avoid confusion, levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid supplement.
What’s the difference between synthetic and natural thyroid treatments? Synthetic Thyroid Treatments (medications), are man-made. They must be prescribed and approved by a doctor. You can take natural supplements from nature without a doctor’s advice. However, we recommend that you consult your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements.
Natural Thyroid Treatments
How can I naturally boost my thyroid? Your thyroid can be naturally boosted by reducing stress and eliminating allergens and toxic substances from your day. You can also take science-backed supplements that target the root cause of your particular case.
Natural thyroid supplements are imperfect. Natural thyroid supplements are often marketed as natural ways to boost your health. Many of these supplements actually contain thyroid hormones (T3 or T4) , but they’re not listed as an ingredient. It is important to understand what your supplements contain!
Patients are also able to DIY their own natural thyroid treatments by selecting the supplements that they believe will be most beneficial for them. This can be dangerous.
I am a functionally-minded healthcare provider and will only recommend supplements to patients based upon their individual needs, deficiencies, or other factors.
10 Natural Thyroid Supplements
These are the top 10 natural thyroid supplements which may be able to help with your symptoms:
- Vitamin D
- Selenium
- Iodine
- Zinc
- Probiotics
- DIM
- Glutathione
- Green tea extract
- Curcumin
- Ashwagandha
Before you take any supplements, it is important to understand the root cause of your thyroid condition. To create the best plan to improve your health, we recommend talking to your doctor or contacting us.
What are the pros and cons of taking Thyroid supplements ? There are science-backed benefits to taking thyroid supplements that can treat your thyroid disorder. Side effects are usually less common with natural thyroid supplements than medication.
These supplements are based on research and can be used to treat various root causes of an abnormal thyroid function.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a hormone that your body naturally makes. Due to our indoor lifestyles, vitamin D is often deficient in large parts of the population. This vitamin deficiency could lead to a underactive or hyperactive thyroid.
Scientists believed that vitamin D deficiency was the main cause of autoimmune thyroiditis. However, a 2020 study showed that even non-autoimmune hypothyroidism could be linked to vitamin D deficiencies.
The 2018 study reveals that Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Vitamin D deficiency are interrelated.
A double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized trial found that vitamin D increased TSH levels in hypothyroid patients. Multivitamins with vitamin D might also be a good idea.
Our D + is a medical-grade, third-party-tested Vitamin D.
Selenium
“Selenium was discovered to be a component in an enzyme that activates thyroid hormone” says in a 2020 study . This is the first time selenium has been identified as a cause of thyroid disorders.
Selenium appears to be an excellent solution to both Graves’ disease (autoimmune thyroiditism) as well as Hashimoto’s disease.
It could help combat postpartum thyroiditis which is a condition in which new mothers have abnormal thyroid function.
Iodine
Moderate amounts of iodine supplementation can help to prevent autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ — as well as reduce hypothyroidism symptoms.
The body can’t produce iodine by itself, so it needs dietary iodine in order to produce and secrete thyroid hormones T3 and T4. Iodized salt simply means salt that has been enriched with iodine. This was a massive effort to reduce goiters in the American populace, which began in 1924.
Iodine has also been shown to be effective in treating hyperthyroidism. When patients with Graves’ disease cannot take antithyroid medication due to side effects or are unable to use them, potassium iodide has been successfully used to regulate thyroid activity . Iodine can temporarily inhibit hormone secretion.
Radioactive iodine, a treatment for hyperthyroidism, is growing in popularity. Radioactive iodine differs from iodine supplementation. Talk with specialists about this treatment option.
Iodine deficiency can also lead to goiters (a thyroid disorder). Goiters can be treated with iodine.
But be careful. Although iodine is an effective treatment for thyroid disorders, too many iodine can cause thyroid problems. You should always seek medical supervision.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, T3, T4, TSH and T4. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can be caused by zinc deficiency. Zinc supplements could be helpful in treating thyroid disorders if you are deficient.
It is worth noting that hypothyroidism could be either a symptom , or a cause. It can be used in both directions, which complicates the diagnosis.
For optimal results, zinc should be paired with selenium, magnesium, and even copper. We recommend that you only take mineral supplements you are deficient in. Please seek testing from your healthcare provider.
PrimeHealth tests for these nutrients as a standard procedure, since they play such an important role in thyroid health.
Zinc is a medical-grade, third-party-tested Zinc.
Probiotics
Hypothyroidism is often caused by leaky gut syndrome. Probiotics, also known as intestinal permeability, are an proven treatment for leaky stomach.
Probiotics are used to treat leaky gut which is a major risk factor for Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism. Probiotics are a great supplement to consider if you suspect that you have leaky gut syndrome.
If you have SIBO , be careful when using probiotics. This is because intestinal bacteria can linger in the smallintestine and cause an overgrowth. Probiotics may make it worse. Probiotics are most effective when they are in your large intestine and not your small.
DIM
Diindolylmethane is a supplement that can be used to treat hormonal imbalances in females, including estrogen dominance. DIM is a supplement that can help women with hormone-related thyroid issues.
Another study shows that DIM is regulated by hormones in women suffering from various conditions.
We often recommend Chasteberry to women suffering from hormonal imbalance.
Glutathione
Glutathione combats oxidative stress which can increase the severity hypothyroidism. Glutathione is an excellent antioxidant. Glutathione is an excellent supplement if inflammation is the cause of your autoimmunity.
Hypothyroidism can be caused by a deficiency in glutathione . Glutathione can improve thyroid health, regardless of whether you are deficient.
N-acetylcysteine can be used as a precursor for glutathione. N-acetylcysteine is a supplement that can help combat inflammation and free radicals.
Green Tea
Green tea contains a catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). EGCG, a powerful antioxidant, benefits you in the same way as glutathione.
This 2018 study demonstrates how EGCG helps to prevent autoimmune thyroid diseases through its anti-inflammatory properties.
Green tea has caffeine and can cause insomnia.
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Curcumin
Curcumin, a powerful antioxidant, is well-known for its antiinflammatory properties which help with osteoarthritis. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory abilities may help to combat autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s.
Combining curcumin and other anti-inflammatory substances could help decrease the size thyroid nodules. This is a sign of hypothyroidism.
The addition of turmeric to your diet will help you increase your intake of curcumin. It is important to note that curcumin bioavailability in turmeric is low, meaning that your body won’t absorb as much. Most of the curcumin found in turmeric is destroyed by your digestive system.
The novel solution to the bioavailability problem is called lipomal curcumin. Liposomes deliver curcumin or whatever it is inside directly to your cells. This cleverly avoids destruction in your digestive system by mimicking a natural cell walls.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an ancient Ayurvedic treatment. Research has shown that ashwagandha can be used to treat hypothyroidism.
Ashwagandha, also known as an adaptogenic herb is said to help the adrenal glands adjust to stress. It’s not surprising that supplements that support the thyroid can help support the thyroid function, since the adrenal glands are so closely connected.
Science has shown that ashwagandha provides a lot of support for thyroid health and can fight or prevent thyroid disease.
Supplements for Underlying Issues
To be able to choose the best thyroid supplements, you must first understand what is triggering your thyroid problem.
When is it appropriate to take Thyroid supplements ? If your lifestyle or dietary changes are not bringing you the results you desire, you should consider taking thyroid supplements.
Talk to a qualified healthcare professional about the cause of your thyroid condition and whether supplements are appropriate for you.
Here are the root causes of thyroid disorders that supplements are broken down.
Hashimoto’s Disease
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is also known as autoimmune thyroiditis. It can lead to hypothyroidism. This condition can cause weight gain, fatigue and cold sensitivity.
There are many possible root causes. It is important to determine the cause before any treatment or supplementation.
These are the most common causes for Hashimoto’s Disease (along with the supplements that can be taken to treat each one):
- Hormone imbalance – If your hormone levels are out of balance, it could trigger Hashimoto’s. Chasteberry and DIM are the best hormone supplements.
- Leaky Gut — If your intestines become chronically irritated it is possible for toxins to escape the gut and into your bloodstream. Hypothyroidism can be caused by leaky gut or as a symptom. Probiotics, zinc and curcumin are the best supplements to heal a leaky gut. Join our online Prime Gut Health Course to heal your gut with the guidance of a PrimeHealth specialist.
- Infections — Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can be caused by tick-borne or viral infections, such as Lyme disease and Epstein-Barr. Vitamins C and D, green tea extract, and zinc are some of the most effective supplements to fight infections.
- Toxin Exposure — Toxicity can cause serious health problems, especially for your thyroid gland. Heavy metal exposure and mold toxins are to be avoided. Glutathione, zinc, and milk thistle are some of the supplements that can be used to combat toxin exposure.
- A nutrient deficiency — This could lead to Hashimoto’s. These deficiencies can be treated with dietary supplementation. Vitamin D, zinc and iron are the most common deficiencies. You should also look out for vitamin B12, folate and L-tyrosine (an amino acid).
Graves’ disease
Graves’ disease, also known as hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid, is an autoimmune disorder. It can cause weight loss, anxiety and heat sensitivity.
You must know the root cause of Graves’ disease before you can treat it or add to your treatment.
Common hyperthyroidism Supplements and Graves’ disease supplements include:
- Iodine
- L-carnitine and selenium
- Lemon balm and bugleweed
- Glucomannan
- Vitamin B12 (if deficient)
Risks Of Thyroid Supplements
Side effects of natural thyroid supplements are rare but possible. Talk to your healthcare provider about what supplements you should discontinue or start during pregnancy. This could affect your needs.
- Too much vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, stomach discomfort and kidney injury. We’re talking about a large amount of vitamin D3.
- Side effects of selenium can include nausea, metallic taste, tenderness and fatigue. These side effects can indicate serious health problems and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
- Iodine supplementation can lead to an overconsumption, which can cause stomach pain and nausea. Thyroid disease can be worsened if there is too much of it.
- Zinc can lead to nausea, diarrhea, metal taste, kidney problems, stomach damage, and heavy metal toxicity.
- SIBO patients shouldn’t take probiotics. Flatulence and digestive distress are some of the side effects of probiotics.
- Side effects of DIM include headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- Although glutathione has no side effects, long-term supplementation with glutathione can lead to zinc deficiency. Combining zinc and glutathione may be an option.
- Because of the caffeine content in green tea extract, it can cause anxiety, insomnia, heart rate increases, and nervousness. Excessive intakes of EGCG can lead to liver and kidney problems as well as low blood glucose.
- Even at low doses, curcumin can cause stomach discomfort. Although this is not uncommon, it can be very uncomfortable. It is possible for your stool to turn yellow.
Nutrition For Thyroid Health
Eating healthier can help improve your overall health and even your thyroid condition. Hypothyroidism can be caused by food allergies and toxins.
You don’t need to take dietary supplements if you can improve your health with diet changes.
Healthy eating habits can help to eliminate toxins, reduce inflammation, and regulate thyroid hormones. You can get started with our guide for a diet .
Experts (including us) recommend the Autoimmune Paleo diet (AIP), which can be followed for 3 to 6 months to identify and eliminate potential inflammatory triggers. We know that food triggers are responsible for your thyroid disorder improvement.
We will gradually reintroduce foods to your diet once your condition has improved. We will remove the food from your diet if your condition worsens.
Women who are pregnant shouldn’t follow the Autoimmune Paleo Diet.
The Key Takeaways
Many factors are involved in reversing hypothyroidism. These include lifestyle changes, diet adjustments and stress reduction. Supplements like vitamin D or iodine can help you heal hypothyroidism.
Prescription medications shouldn’t be considered the first line of treatment for thyroid disease. If you address the root cause of your disease, natural options can be very effective.
If you are interested in hypothyroidism supplementation, visit the online store. You can also schedule your complimentary phone consultation now to speak with a doctor.
