Smooth thyroid function depends on various vitamins and minerals working together.
Multiple sources indicate that the following nutrients may all be involved in either initiating thyroid dysfunction or helping in managing symptoms through maintaining appropriate levels: vitamin D, thiamine (B1), protein, vitamin A, cobalamin (B12), riboflavin (B2), selenium, iodine, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, and zinc.
The following sections contain information on a few of these nutrients and their thyroid-related functions in the body as well as details on the best dietary sources or other ways of repletion.
American Integrative Pharmacy (AIP), led by Dr. Neema Yazdanpanah, provides compounded medications to patients in Long Beach, Torrance, Los Angeles, South Bay Orange County, Southern California areas, and nationwide.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is considered to be an “immune modulator.” Autoimmunity is related to an imbalance between the two portions of our immune system called Th-1 (cell-mediated) and Th-2 (humoral).
Therefore, it is logical that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be more pervasive among people with autoimmune thyroid conditions in comparison to healthy individuals.
The patient’s integrative medical care professional can test and monitor their levels of vitamin D. They can offer guidance on supplementation. People with autoimmune thyroid conditions are reported to have the best results if they maintain their vitamin D levels between 60 and 80 ng/L.
Vitamin B12
According to estimates, around 40 percent of hypothyroid patients have a vitamin B12 deficiency.
This deficiency may be related to hypothyroidism due to the autoimmune link. Other reasons for the deficiency may include poor dietary habits, gut infections, and digestive dysfunction.
The most absorbable form of supplemental B12 is sublingual (after injections). Thyroid patients should ideally have B12 levels between 700-900 pg/ml.
Iodine
Iodine is a trace mineral, which is typically associated with thyroid dysfunction. Iodine is necessary for the manufacture of the thyroid hormone, T4. Between 70 to 80 percent of iodine in the body is located within the thyroid gland.
The deficiency of iodine can lead to weight gain, sluggishness, and other symptoms of hypothyroidism. In extreme cases, the patient may develop a goiter (enlarged thyroid).
Iodized salt, sea vegetables such as seaweed, Swiss chard, spinach, and lima beans are good sources of iodine in foods.
As excessive amounts of iodine can be problematic, supplementation should only begin after iodine level testing and under the guidance of an experienced thyroid practitioner.
Iodine can, at times, lead to a flare-up of symptoms. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution in autoimmune thyroid conditions.
Selenium
Selenium is also a trace mineral, which is vital for thyroid function as it is necessary for the conversion of T4 to T3 (inactive to an active form of thyroid hormone).
According to some research on selenium, supplementation may reduce thyroid antibodies in people with Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
In some studies, taking 200 mcg of selenium on a daily basis has been proven effective in reducing TPO antibodies by 50 percent within three months. Other research does not offer similar clarity related to supplementation in thyroid patients.
Irrespective of this, it is important to have optimal levels of selenium for overall health due to its part in the immune function.
American Integrative Pharmacy offers both modern and traditional compounding solutions, including online prescription refills, to patients in Long Beach, Torrance, Los Angeles, South Bay Orange County, Southern California areas, and nationwide.
For more information on compound pharmacy medications available or to make an online prescription purchase, please click here or call Toll Free 1-855-247-7948.
American Integrative Pharmacy is located in Lomita, CA serving residents in and around Orange County, Los Angeles, Long Beach, Torrance and surrounding areas. Online prescription sales are available across the US.
