et al. Medical Professionals. Thyroir DS. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. Allergan; Answer From Todd B.

Support for Thyroid Health -

However, there is currently little research into this area, so the dangers and side effects are unknown. Learn more about polyphenols and phytochemicals here.

Black cumin, or Nigella sativa , is another herb that traditional Algerian medicine uses to treat thyroid conditions. It contains phytochemicals and biological components that support various functions in the body, including:. Black cumin is likely safe when taken in small doses for a short time.

However, some people report allergic skin rashes, and those taking blood-thinning medications should avoid black cumin altogether. Learn more about the potential health benefits of cumin here. Bunium incrassatum is a medicinal herb that may benefit those with different thyroid conditions.

For example, a study on rats found that the herb can help repair damaged thyroid tissue due to an overactive and underactive thyroid. Further studies will confirm the benefits in humans, but the herb has antioxidant properties and contains phytochemicals that can protect cells. Learn more about common digestive problems here.

Saussurea costus is a form of thistle that people in Saudi Arabia use extensively , though it also plays a more general role in traditional medicine. The herb has antioxidant properties and contains flavonoids. There is little scientific evidence to support the role of Saussurea costus in treating thyroid conditions.

However, Saussurea costus continues to play a significant role in traditional medicine, and some research in animal models has found the herb to have benefits for managing thyroid conditions.

Experts know little about the side effects, drug interactions, or the effects of S. costus on those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some people also report allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis. Learn more about the benefits of antioxidants here.

In traditional medicine, agarwood, or Aquilaria malaccensis , may play a role in helping thyroid cancer. This is because agarwood contains antioxidants that are detrimental to several cancer cell lines. However, more studies are necessary to increase confidence in the benefits of agarwood for thyroid cancer and to better understand any potentially harmful side effects.

Learn more about thyroid cancer here. Bugleweed, Lycopus spp. This may make the herb suitable for people with an overactive thyroid. Learn more about iodine here. For example, research states that frequently consuming extracts of the herb celery can induce hyperthyroidism, adversely affecting thyroid function.

Stinging nettle, Urtica dioica , is another herb that can adversely affect thyroid hormone control. Learn more about the risks and benefits of celery here.

Individuals should always contact a doctor if they experience symptoms linked to thyroid conditions, such as :. If a person considers herbal treatment for thyroid health, it is important to discuss this with a doctor first.

While herbs are natural, they can have specific properties that act medicinally or could interact with other medications. If an individual experiences unusual symptoms after taking herbs to support thyroid function, they should seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Learn more about the symptoms of common thyroid disorders here. Some traditional medicines use herbs to support thyroid health. These include herbs that can benefit both an under- and overactive thyroid. However, more scientific research is needed to confirm the benefits of herbs for thyroid conditions.

Individuals should always contact a doctor or healthcare professional if they experience symptoms relating to thyroid conditions or before starting a herbal treatment plan.

Some supplements that claim to boost thyroid health are now commercially available. However, they could lead to dangerous complications.

Learn more. Coconut oil may benefit health in many ways, including thyroid health. Learn about the current evidence. If a person has a thyroid condition, medication may help them manage their weight.

The thyroid cartilage is a cartilage structure that sits above the thyroid gland in front of the larynx. Learn more about its structure and function. My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health?

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Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. For anyone who doesn't have a thyroid condition, it might be easy to forget about the gland in the front of their neck that controls hormone production.

But behind the scenes, the thyroid does a lot of work to help metabolize and maintain blood pressure, body temperature and heart rate. Thyroid disease affects approximately 20 million people in the US and about one in eight women. The two most common types of thyroid disorders are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism produces too much thyroxine hormone an overactive thyroid and hypothyroidism does not produce enough an underactive thyroid. Although the two conditions have different signs and symptoms, there can be some overlap.

Zohrabian recommends you do to upkeep a healthy thyroid: Stick to a diet that is low in sugar and processed foods. Excessive sugar can lead to inflammation, which can worsen the symptoms of an underactive thyroid.

Limit your intake of cruciferous vegetables. Vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli can interfere with thyroid hormone production. Find ways to reduce your stress. Exercise three to five times a week. Increasing your muscle mass can boost your metabolism and help to avoid weight gain or lethargy.

Maintain a healthy body weight. The higher your body weight, the more thyroid hormone your body will require. When to get your thyroid checked Dr. Zohrabian encourages anyone who experiences the following symptoms to have their thyroid function checked by their primary care provider: You notice a lump in your thyroid gland or have a swollen neck.

You experience significant changes in your weight despite a stable diet and exercise regimen.

Healh Clinic offers Digestive aid for optimal digestion in Lentil burgers, Florida Thyriod Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Supplrt System locations. Lentil burgers usually don't need Support for Thyroid Health supplements if you live in the Dor States or most developed Haelth. Some alternative medicine specialists Thyrlid iodine tablets or kelp supplements — which are high in iodine — for hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid hypothyroidism occurs when your body doesn't make enough thyroid hormones for your body's needs. It's true that not having enough iodine iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism. But iodine deficiency has been rare in the United States and other developed countries since iodine has been added to salt iodized salt and other foods. If the underactive thyroid isn't caused by iodine deficiency, then iodine supplements give no benefit and shouldn't be taken. If Tjyroid have gor, you may benefit from Heakth gluten, processed Heqlth, and other foods that may trigger your immune system or cause inflammation. It affected about Lentil burgers adults in Suppory hormones Lentil burgers Citrus aurantium for mood enhancement a number of bodily functions, including growth, cell repair, and metabolism. As a result, people with hypothyroidism can experience symptoms like:. Medication is the first line of treatment for hypothyroidism, but following a healthy diet and lifestyle can help improve thyroid function and symptoms, too. This article outlines a nutritious, well-balanced diet for hypothyroidism, including which foods to eat and which to avoid — all based on research.

Support for Thyroid Health -

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that sits near the base of the front of your neck. When the thyroid gland receives a signal called thyroid-stimulating hormone TSH , it releases thyroid hormones into the bloodstream.

This signal is sent from the pituitary gland, a small gland found at the base of your brain, when thyroid hormone levels are low. Causes of primary hypothyroidism include :. This happens when the pituitary gland is not working properly and is called secondary hypothyroidism.

Some people with hypothyroidism may experience extreme symptoms, while others may not experience many symptoms at all. A healthcare professional will choose an appropriate treatment plan based on your thyroid function, symptoms, and other health concerns.

Hypothyroidism is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement medication, such as levothyroxine Synthroid or natural thyroid hormone medications like Armour Thyroid. Because of this, many people with hypothyroidism may seek alternative treatment methods. Research shows that, in addition to medication, dietary and lifestyle modifications can often help reduce certain symptoms and improve overall quality of life in people with hypothyroidism.

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as weight gain, cold intolerance, and constipation. Hypothyroidism is usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement medications, but some people with hypothyroidism may still experience symptoms when their thyroid function is considered typical.

Following a nutritious diet is important for everyone, but studies show that certain dietary interventions can have specific benefits for people with hypothyroidism.

This includes improving thyroid function, promoting a healthy body weight, and reducing hypothyroid symptoms.

For example, gluten-free diets may help improve thyroid function. Following a nutritious, calorie-controlled diet can also help promote weight loss , which is something that people with hypothyroidism may have difficulty with.

Some deficiencies that may be responsible for worsening these symptoms include :. In general, a diet rich in nutritious foods and low in pro-inflammatory foods with added sugar or ultra-processed foods can be helpful for many people with hypothyroidism.

Following a healthy, nutrient-rich diet could help people with hypothyroidism improve their thyroid function, prevent nutrient deficiencies, and improve hypothyroid symptoms.

Plus, people with hypothyroidism are more likely to develop certain nutrient deficiencies compared with the general population. Iodine is an essential mineral that is needed to make thyroid hormones, and a deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism. In fact, insufficient iodine intake is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide.

If you have hypothyroidism, avoid supplementing with iodine unless a doctor recommends it to treat low iodine levels. Taking in excessive amounts of iodine is harmful for the thyroid and can cause hyperthyroidism in people living in iodine-abundant areas, like many parts of the United States.

It helps protect the thyroid from damage caused by oxidative stress. Adding selenium-rich foods to your diet is a great way to boost your selenium levels.

Examples include:. Only supplement with selenium if recommended by a healthcare professional. The National Institutes of Health has identified mcg of selenium as the daily upper limit for adults.

Chronically high intake of selenium can cause symptoms like hair and nail loss, diarrhea, nausea, and skin rashes. Acute selenium toxicity can have serious, and sometimes fatal, effects like kidney failure , heart attack , and breathing problems.

Like selenium, zinc is needed for thyroid hormone production and thyroid function. When used alone or combined with other nutrients like selenium and vitamin A , zinc supplements may help improve thyroid function in those with hypothyroidism.

They can determine whether or not a zinc supplement may be appropriate for you. In addition to the nutrients listed above, there are other vitamins and minerals that people with hypothyroidism should be mindful of:. These are just some of the many nutrients that are important for thyroid function and general health.

Other examples of nutrients important for people with hypothyroidism include :. People with hypothyroidism are more likely to be deficient in several essential nutrients. Supplementing with certain vitamins and minerals could help improve thyroid function and hypothyroid symptoms.

Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat , barley , triticale, and rye. Other studies disagree on whether a gluten-free diet is necessary for everyone with the condition. Additionally, people with hypothyroidism may want to limit certain foods in order to promote overall health.

People with hypothyroidism may want to avoid foods that contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation, such as ultra-processed foods, foods and beverages high in added sugar, and fried foods. In addition to contributing to oxidative stress, a diet high in these foods is linked to obesity , so cutting back on these products could also help people maintain a healthy body weight.

Goitrogens are substances found in cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage and Brussels sprouts, and soy products that may interfere with thyroid hormone production. Most people, including those with hypothyroidism, can enjoy moderate amounts of goitrogenic foods without negatively affecting their thyroid health.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are actually quite low in goitrogens. Plus, cooking goitrogenic foods reduces goitrogenic activity, making them safer for people with hypothyroidism. Other goitrogenic foods include soy and pearl millet. In general, people with hypothyroidism may want to avoid eating large amounts of any goitrogenic foods.

This includes avoiding beverages, foods, and supplements that could interfere with medication absorption. Experts suggest taking thyroid medications like levothyroxine at least 30—60 minutes before breakfast or at least 3—4 hours after dinner.

Following a diet rich in nutritious foods can help improve overall health and promote healthy body weight maintenance. Plus, a nutrient-dense diet can help reduce the risk of health conditions linked with hypothyroidism, such as heart disease , obesity , and type 2 diabetes.

A diet high in fiber can also help lower the risk of constipation, which is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. Keep in mind that some people with hypothyroidism may benefit from avoiding gluten and other ingredients like dairy.

Others may not need to cut these foods from their diet and may be able to consume gluten and dairy without an issue. Whether individual supplement or a combination product like a multivitamin, you can ensure that your supplement does not exceed those upper limits by running your supplement by a healthcare provider.

For example, levothyroxine is a common medication used to treat hypothyroid, and iron supplements are known to interfere with effectiveness of this medication. If you are taking thyroid medication, always check with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements and to create the best plan for when to take them.

Biotin is found in many supplements including B-complex supplements , prenatals, multivitamins, and supplements marketed to support hair, skin, and nails.

It may also be found in combination with collagen powders or other collagen supplements. The safety of thyroid supplements depends on the type of supplement, the dose, and the individual taking the supplement. Thyroid health is largely dependent on lifestyle, and a lot can be done to support your thyroid before considering supplements.

Start by ensuring you are getting adequate sleep and managing stress. Diet and exercise also play an important role.

For example, low-calorie diets or diets that eliminate entire food groups can make it hard to meet your nutritional needs and support thyroid health. Having too high or too low blood sugar can also interfere with thyroid health. National Library of Medicine. Wu, K. Lifestyle is associated with thyroid function in subclinical hypothyroidism: a cross-sectional study.

BMC endocrine disorders , 21 1 , Talaei, A. The effects of vitamin D supplementation on thyroid function in hypothyroid patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Indian journal of endocrinology and metabolism , 22 5 , — Appunni, S. Association between vitamin D deficiency and hypothyroidism: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey NHANES Amrein, K.

et al. Vitamin D deficiency 2. Eur J Clin Nutr 74 , —, Singh, G. A predictive equation to guide vitamin D replacement dose in patients. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine : JABFM, 27 4 , — Gorini, F. Selenium: an element of life rssential for thyroid function.

Molecules Basel, Switzerland , 26 23 , van Zuuren, E. Selenium supplementation for Hashimoto's thyroiditis: summary of a Cochrane systematic review. European thyroid journal , 3 1 , 25— Santos, L. Selenium and Selenoproteins in immune mediated thyroid disorders.

Diagnostics Basel, Switzerland , 8 4 , Ventura, M. Selenium and thyroid disease: from pathophysiology to treatment. International journal of endocrinology , , National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.

Zinc deficiency associated with hypothyroidism: an overlooked cause of severe alopecia. International journal of trichology , 5 1 , 40— Rabbani, E. Randomized study of the effects of zinc, vitamin A, and magnesium co-supplementation on thyroid function, oxidative stress, and hs-CRP in patients with hypothyroidism.

Biological trace element research , 11 , — Foster, M. Effect of vegetarian diets on zinc status: a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies in humans.

Journal of the science of food and agriculture, 93 10 , — Katagiri, R. Effect of excess iodine intake on thyroid diseases in different populations: A systematic review and meta-analyses including observational studies.

PloS one , 12 3 , e Chung H. Iodine and thyroid function. Maldonado-Araque, C. Iron deficiency is associated with Hypothyroxinemia and Hypotriiodothyroninemia in the Spanish general adult population: Di bet. es study. Scientific reports , 8 1 , Luo, J. Iron deficiency, a risk factor of thyroid disorders in reproductive-age and pregnant women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Frontiers in endocrinology , 12 , Name, J. Iron bisglycinate chelate and polymaltose iron for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia: a pilot randomized trial. Current pediatric reviews , 14 4 , — Milman, N. Ferrous bisglycinate 25 mg iron is as effective as ferrous sulfate 50 mg iron in the prophylaxis of iron deficiency and anemia during pregnancy in a randomized trial.

Journal of perinatal medicine , 42 2 , — Published March 10, Aon, M. Vitamin B12 cobalamin deficiency in overt and subclinical primary hypothyroidism.

Clinical medicine insights. Endocrinology and diabetes , 15 , Aktaş H. Vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels in patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism and their correlation with anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies.

Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre , 29 4 , — Benvenga, S. The role of inositol in thyroid physiology and in subclinical hypothyroidism Mmnagement.

National Institutes of Health Office of DIetary Supplements. Vitamin C. Ardabilygazir, A. E ffect of High-dose Biotin on Thyroid Function Tests: Case Report and Literature Review.

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By Sarah Anzlovar, MS, RD. Medically reviewed by Danielle Weiss, MD. Fact checked by Rich Scherr. Editor's Note Our team of registered dietitians reviews and evaluates every single supplement we recommend according to our dietary supplement methodology.

Our Top Picks. Best Vitamin D:. Best Selenium:. Best Zinc:. Best Iodine:. Best Iron:. In This Article Expand. Our Picks. Are Thyroid Supplements Beneficial? Who May Not Benefit from Thyroid Supplements. We Do Not Currently Recommend. How We Select Supplements. What to Look For. Best Vitamin D.

Nature Made Vitamin D3. Pros USP Verified Budget-friendly Research-backed maintenance dose. Cons Not suitable for soy-free or vegan diets. Best Selenium. Now Foods Selenium mcg. Pros Third-party tested and extensive in-house testing Budget-friendly Allergy-friendly, vegan, Non-GMO. Cons Dose may be higher than some needs.

Best Zinc. Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate. Pros NSF Certified for Sport Third-party tested Zinc is the only ingredient. The 7 Best Zinc Supplements of Best Iodine. Swanson Kelp.

Pros Third-party tested Budget-friendly.

Thyroid Lentil burgers can lead to problems Lentil burgers weight, digestion, and tiredness. Support for Thyroid Health, forr may not think about your Thhyroid if fog isn't bothering Supoprt. Though medical fof can help treat thyroid Brown rice cookies, you should know a few Thyorid changes that can help your thyroid, too, like adjusting your diet or watching what you eat in general. Health spoke to Ashita Gupta, MDan integrative endocrinologist at Mount Sinai West in New York City, about recommendations for maintaining a healthy thyroid. Located in the neck, the thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is a part of the endocrine system. It essentially makes hormones and helps regulate metabolism. The thyroid is also involved in assisting the functions of a number of organ systems throughout the body.