Thyroid and adrenals glands secrete hormones into the bloodstream. The thyroid gland is located in the neck, just under the adam's apple; the adrenal glands are found on top of each kidney. Thyroid and adrenal hormone deficiency causes serious health conditions and stress compromises hormone production. Therefore, supplementation may be an effective way to support glandular function; however, consult a physician before considering supplementation.
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B-5, or pantothenic acid is a component of coenzyme-A; a coenzyme involved in most chemical reactions within the body and is thus essential to a healthy body. Coenzyme-A plays a role in the production of energy, hormones, cholesterol and some neurotransmitters. Vitamin B-5 also supports adrenal gland function. Adrenal glands secrete cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. Coenzyme-A helps the adrenal glands produce cortisol. Vitamin B-5 is not toxic to the body; however, consult a physician before taking higher doses, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
DHEA
Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. DHEA produces other hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, progesterone and cortisol. With age, production of DHEA reduces, thus reducing the production of hormones. A reduction in cortisol production places a strain on the adrenal glands and subjects the body to the affects of stress. Synthetic forms of DHEA, created from wild yams and soy plants, are available. Some scientific evidence claims that DHEA is useful for persons with adrenal disorders; DHEA supplementation may help with fatigue and hormone levels; however, you must consult a physician before taking DHEA, according to Iowa State University.
Iodine
Iodine, a trace element, is required for the production of thyroid hormones. The thyroid is an important gland for the maintenance of metabolism, growth, reproduction and development; without thyroid hormones the body simply would not function. In the West, iodine deficiency is rare as it is supplied to the population through iodized table salt; however, sea salt is not fortified with iodine. An iodine deficiency causes lowered thyroid function, which causes fatigue, weight-gain and reduced cognition; advanced cases cause a goiter, or bulge to form on the front of the neck. Iodine supplements are available to support thyroid hormone production; however, a physician must be consulted before supplementation, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
L-Tyrosine
Tryosine is an amino acid produced from another amino acid called phenylalanine. Tyrosine plays a role in adrenal and thyroid hormone production. Under episodes of stress, the body may not have the capacity to produce enough tyrosine from phenylalanine; therefore, supplementation may support hormone production. Tyrosine supplements are sold as L-tyrosine, an absorbable form of the amino acid. Consult a physician before taking L-tyrosine and avoid taking the supplement if you have Grave's disease, since the supplement may increase thyroid hormone production, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
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