The Top 6 Thyroid Supplements You Need In 2023
Are you looking to support your thyroid health naturally, but not sure where to start?
Unfortunately, the standard North American diet is not the best support system for hormone health, but with the right tools and consistency, you have the power to give your thyroid a reset.
There are 6 key minerals that are often left out of our everyday diets, that are key to regulating thyroid hormone production. Fortunately, there are many ways to get enough of these minerals (even if they are left out of your everyday diet).
Selenium
One of the most important minerals for thyroid health is selenium. This trace mineral is essential for the production of thyroid hormones and helps to protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress. Selenium can be found in foods such as Brazil nuts, tuna, and chicken, but it can be difficult to get enough of it through diet alone. Supplementation with selenium has been shown to improve thyroid function in individuals with hypothyroidism (and may even help to reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer!).
The recommended daily dosage for selenium varies depending on the individual and their specific needs. A typical dosage for adults is between 55-200 micrograms per day. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider (like a functional medicine practitioner!) to determine the appropriate dosage for you.
Manganese
Manganese is another essential mineral for thyroid health. It plays a crucial role in the synthesis and metabolism of thyroid hormones. Good sources of manganese include nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables, but supplementation may be necessary for those with a deficiency or with diagnosed thyroid dysfunction. A typical dosage for adults is between 2.3-9 milligrams per day.
Copper
Copper is another mineral that is important for thyroid health. It promotes the production of thyroid hormones, and helps to protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress. Copper can be found in foods such as shellfish, nuts, and seeds, which are not as popular in the North American diet. Because of this, supplementation is recommended.
A typical dosage for adults is between 1-3 milligrams per day.
Zinc
Zinc is another essential mineral for thyroid function. It plays a role in the synthesis and metabolism of thyroid hormones and helps to protect the thyroid gland from oxidative stress. Zinc can be found in foods such as meat, shellfish, and nuts, but it is also available in supplement form. A typical dosage for adults is between 8-11 milligrams per day.
B12
Vitamin B12 is crucial for thyroid health as it plays a role in the production of thyroid hormones. It is also important for maintaining healthy nerve function and the production of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 can be found in animal-derived foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy, but it can also be obtained through supplements. Vegetarians and vegans may be at risk for a deficiency in B12 and may benefit from supplementation. A typical dosage for adults is between 2.4-2.8 micrograms per day.
Iodine
Iodine is a trace mineral that is well-known to support thyroid function as it is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. Iodine is found in many common foods, including dairy, eggs, and seafood, so deficiency is relatively uncommon in North America, it can still occur and can lead to impaired thyroid function. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting an iodine supplement, as excessive iodine intake can be harmful to the thyroid gland if you’re not careful. A typical dosage for adults is between 150-300 micrograms per day.
In addition to individual supplements, there are also thyroid combination supplements available that contain a combination of thyroid-supporting minerals such as selenium, manganese, copper, zinc, and vitamin B12. These combo supplements can be a convenient way to ensure that you are getting all of the necessary nutrients for thyroid health in one easy-to-take product.
Time heal with the magic of minerals
If you are ignoring your thyroid health, you could be putting yourself at risk for serious consequences. Thyroid dysfunction can lead to a range of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, mood changes, and even heart problems if left untreated.
It is important to take steps to support your thyroid health and address any underlying issues. While a healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial, certain supplements such as selenium, manganese, copper, zinc, and vitamin B12 may also be beneficial in supporting thyroid function. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure that the supplements do not interact with any medications you may be taking.
Don't ignore your thyroid health - take action to support it and address any issues before they become serious problems.