When your thyroid is unable to produce enough thyroid hormones, a chronic illness known as hypothyroidism is present. The thyroid is the thermostat of the body, purposefully regulating metabolism and the hypothalamus. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, disruptions in the body occur, affecting metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. Hypothyroidism must be diagnosed by your Doctor or Endocrinologist via a simple blood test.
It is possible to regulate thyroid function with vitamins, supplements, and medication. Below, vitamins and thyroid supplements will be outlined, reviewing supplements best suited to assist in increased thyroid function due to a lack of specific hormones, vitamin, and supplement deficiencies. Suggestions can be made regarding the amount of vitamin and supplement one should consume, however, it is best to consult with a Doctor or Endocrinologist to understand metabolic and thyroid levels, in order to determine where deficiencies exist before taking any vitamins or supplements.
If a specific vitamin or supplement is missing from your diet, it is important to supplement that loss. One of the most common deficiencies affecting thyroid function is lack of Vitamin D. Vitamin D improves thyroid stimulating hormone levels(TSH), and can be achieved by supplementing with an amount of vitamin D that your Doctor deems necessary. While food sources are often not sufficient enough in obtaining and maintaining vitamin D, some good sources include milk, yogurt, and orange juice. Exposure to sun is also a natural form of vitamin D.
Another supplement needed to ensure proper thyroid function is Iodine. In order to make the thyroid hormone, proper amounts of iodine, approximately 150 micrograms(mcg), must exist. Too much iodine, on the other hand, can cause hypothyroidism or further damage to the thyroid gland. Some proper food sources containing iodine include, milk, cheese, poultry, eggs, and seaweed. Also, Tyrosine, an amino acid, in combination with iodine, will assist with production of the thyroid hormone. Tyrosine is best found in protein which should consist of 10-35 percent of daily calories.
Vitamin B, important for thyroid function and hormone regulation, is best taken in the complex form. Should Vitamin B12 levels be low, this can be identified via a blood test, additional B12 may be suggested should levels be low. Great food sources containing vitamin B include milk, meat, legumes, fish, whole grains, and dark leafy greens.
In addition, selenium and zinc are great for thyroid supplement. Both are essential to improving thyroid function and increasing hormone levels. Great food sources of selenium include tuna, shrimp, scallops, salmon, shitake mushrooms, beef, chicken, turkey, and eggs. Zinc assists with conversion of T4 hormones to T3, and is found in food sources such as meat, shellfish, nuts, and legumes.
Finally, while the food sources that assist with supplementing the necessary vitamins and nutrients for proper thyroid functioning were outlined above, certain food sources should be eliminated or consumed in moderation when having a poorly functioning thyroid gland. These foods include soy based foods, processed foods, starches, and sugars as they cause disruption and inflammation to the thyroid gland and the body.
In conclusion, the thyroid is the regulating thermostat of the human body. It is in charge of running the metabolic functions of the body properly, when it is not running properly, symptoms can include but are not limited to, weight gain, lethargy, depression, increased heart rate and palpitations, increased stress levels and the inability to sleep or sleeping too much. While thyroid supplement of vitamins and nutrients is fine and best determined along with the support of your Doctor, engaging in a healthy nutrient rich diet with plenty of exercise are key factors to consider for optimum thyroid performance.