Your thyroid produces and releases hormones into the body. Located in the neck, this organ helps determine your body's metabolism, according to MedlinePlus. Several known thyroid disorders exist, including hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid, and hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. Thyroid diseases can be addressed medically with drugs and other treatments, but some vitamins and supplements also may be effective at regulating thyroid function.
Iodine
An iodine supplement can help boost an underactive thyroid, but only in cases where the condition is caused by an iodine deficiency, which is rare in the United States, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Do not use iodine to boost thyroid function unless directed to do so by a doctor, because iodine toxicity can also affect thyroid function.
Bladderwrack
A seaweed called bladderwrack is sometimes touted as an herbal supplement to treat hypothyroidism. However, any positive effect is due to the iodine content in the plant, which is highly variable, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Bladderwrack may be useful in treating people with an underactive thyroid because of a iodine deficiency, but studies have not proven this effect. Always consult with a doctor before using bladderwrack.
Selenium
The mineral selenium, found in many of the foods we eat, affects thyroid function. Low selenium levels have been linked to incidences of goiter--an enlarged thyroid--which is a sign of hypothyroidism, according to the University of Michigan Health System. However, evidence suggests that selenium supplements will only help those who have a goiter because of a selenium deficiency.
Vitamin A
Studies have shown that people who suffer from hypothyroidism do not readily convert beta-carotene to vitamin A. Because of this, supplementing with vitamin A if it is lacking in the diet can be beneficial in treating the condition, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Consult with a doctor about safe dosing before taking a vitamin A supplement to boost thyroid function.
Green Tea
Green tea supplements may be beneficial for people who have hyperthyroidism. Its effectiveness is based on its high antioxidant content, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Always check with a medical professional before using this supplement to regulate your thyroid function.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is another herbal supplement touted as a remedy for hyperthyroidism because it can help normalize an overactive thyroid, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For best results, steep 2 tablespoons lemon balm in hot water to make a medicinal liquid you can drink three times a day. Always consult with a medical professional before using lemon balm to regulate thyroid function.
L-Carnitine
An L-carnitine supplement may also be useful for people with hyperthyroidism because it can help slow thyroid function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. L-carnitine is an amino acid the body uses to metabolize fat. The typical dose is between 500 and 2,000 mg daily, but consult with a medical professional before using L-carnitine to regulate thyroid function.
