Vitamins for an underactive thyroid
One in twenty people suffer thyroid conditions. Women are up to eight times more likely than men to suffer a thyroid condition in their lifetime, and fifteen times more likely than men to suffer an underactive thyroid condition.
Our earlier article explains 'The best foods for thyroid conditions' and here we explain some of the potentially important vitamins for underactive and overactive thyroid conditions. If you're taking thyroid medication, always check with your Doctor or healthcare provider before taking supplements.
Supplements for an underactive thyroid
Iodine
Correcting an Iodine deficiency, or suboptimal levels is a good place to start for low thyroid function. It is not recommended however for an overactive thyroid. If you are on thyroid medication, it is essential that you get advice from your healthcare professional first, as it may interact with an Iodine supplement.
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High quality multi-vitamin
A high quality multi-vitamin formula is another good supplement to consider for low thyroid function. Look for one that has good levels of Zinc, Copper, Selenium and B Vitamins.
A multi-vitamin formula with any of these vitamins still needs to be checked with your GP healthcare professional if you're taking medication as interactions may occur. Our award-winning Daily Multi-Vitamin has 24 essential nutrients at optimal levels, with highly absorbable ingredients, fuelling your daily energy, mental performance, skin, nails and hair, and much more.
Probiotics and pre-biotics
Probiotics and pre-biotics are generally considered safe for individuals on thyroid medication. Probiotics and prebiotics added into a supplement regime may come with a few beneficial surprises, as probiotics are needed for nearly every area of the body - learn more in 'What are probiotics'.
Gut Works is a unique pre and probiotic, with 50bn CFU and 6 clinically studied strains of healthy bacteria. Gut Works is uniquely formulated for IBS and fuel your energy, mental performance, skin health and immunity.
Vitamin D3
Ask your Doctor or nutritionist for a Vitamin D test and take a dose of Vitamin D that is matched to your current blood levels. Vitamin D is generally safe for those on thyroid medication. Learn more about Vitamin D in our article 'How do I know if I'm deficient in Vitamin D?'.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a 'Mineral Superhero' and generally needs to be taken separately rather than in a multi-nutrient formula to receive the therapeutic level needed by the body. Find out why it's so good in our article 'Magnesium: The Mineral Superhero and discover the signs of magnesium deficiency.
Magnesium may be even more beneficial when taken before bed as it may improve sleep. Magnesium is generally safe for those on thyroid medication, however, always consult with your GP first.
Best foods for an underactive thyroid
In our article 'Best foods for thyroid conditions' we explain the key vitamins and nutrients needed in your diet, and the best foods to get them in. Here's a short and simple guide.
Protein rich foods
High quality protein rich foods, especially peanuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds are all good for thyroid conditions because they contain an amino acid called tyrosine which is needed to make thyroid hormones.
Fermented foods
Fermented foods are beneficial for thyroid glands because they contain probiotics which support the immune system, as well as the conversion of nutrients needed for the thyroid.
Fibre rich foods
Fibre rich foods such as vegetables and fruits provide a good food source for the probiotics in your gut which support the thyroid, and a host of other benefits.
Best supplements for an overactive thyroid
B Vitamins with Vitamin B12
Deficiency in Vitamin B12 can be linked to hyperthyroidism. Getting a B12 test and taking the right supplements or injections is essential. You can learn more in our article '5 signs you may be low in Vitamin B12'.
If you are not overtly deficient in B12, a B Vitamin complex supplement can support the normal function of the thyroid. Again, if you are on medication, it is important that you consult with your GP first before taking supplements (we can't stress this enough!).
Selenium
Selenium has been shown in some research to improve the symptoms of an overactive thyroid. There is one symptom that can occur with overactive thyroid called thyroid eye disease, which Selenium has been shown to help. You should discuss with your Doctor first before taking Selenium if you are on medication.
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