Approximately 10 million Americans have hypothyroidism, a condition in which the body does not make enough thyroid hormone, which is mainly responsible for regulating the body's metabolism. Thus, symptoms of hypothyroidism might include weight gain and sluggishness. Treatment typically includes prescription synthetic thyroid hormone. If you've recently been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you might be wondering how nutrition might affect the condition. Mary Shomon, a recognized thyroid expert, recommends taking a daily multivitamin, which will include several vitamins and minerals that support thyroid health.
Iodine
Humans need the proper amount of iodine for the optimal production of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency is a health problem throughout much of the world. It's characterized by a swollen thyroid gland, called goiter, and in severe cases, hypothyroidism. But in areas of the world that are iodine-sufficient, such as the U.S., too much iodine can also result in hypothyroidism. The proper amount of dietary iodine is between 150 and 1,100 mcg. Most people in the U.S. consume more than enough iodine in their diets. Iodized salt is the major source of iodine in the U.S. diet, but it can also be found in seafood and milk.
Selenium
Selenium is a trace element that plays a role in the regulation of thyroid hormones. It is essential in small amounts for normal development, growth and metabolism. Selenium deficiency might make the effects of iodine deficiency worse. The recommended dietary allowance, or RDA, is 55 mcg, and the tolerable upper intake level, or UL, is 400 mcg per day. Food sources include Brazil nuts and seafood.
Vitamin C
Some patients taking synthetic thyroid hormone to treat hypothyroidism have difficulties with its absorption into the bloodstream. With inadequate drug absorption, symptoms continue. Consequently, the patient usually needs a higher dose and more testing. Timing, some foods and medications, and certain digestive diseases interfere with the absorption of synthetic thyroid hormone, but often, malabsorption occurs for no reason. Some research suggests that vitamin C might increase the absorption of synthetic thyroid hormone. Talk to your doctor before taking vitamin C with your medication.
Warnings
Do not take a multivitamin within four hours of taking prescription thyroid hormone. Calcium, iron and magnesium can bind to thyroid hormone, making it less effective.
References
- Endocrineweb: Hypothyroidism -- Too Little Thyroid Hormone
- Linus Pauling Institute: Iodine
- Thyroid-Info.com: Top Five Supplements for Thyroid Support
- Endocrine Society: Absorption of thyroid drug levothyroxine improves with vitamin C
- Thyroid-Info.com: 15 Reasons Why Your TSH Might Be Fluctuating
- Linus Pauling Institute: Selenium
