Thyroid
Also known as: Selenium, Selenite, Selenate, Vitamin D, Cholecalciferol (D3), Ergocalciferol (D2), Myo-inositol, Inositol
Overview
Selenium is an essential trace element found in various food sources, including Brazil nuts, fish, and turkey. It plays a significant role in thyroid health, particularly in the synthesis of thyroid hormones and has antioxidant properties. Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin, is primarily obtained from sunlight exposure and certain foods like fatty fish and fortified dairy products, supporting bone health and immune function. Myo-inositol is a carbohydrate present in many foods, including fruits and beans, known for its role in insulin signaling. This analysis focuses on these nutrients in relation to thyroid health, especially in the management of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, with substantial evidence pointing towards their benefits in reducing autoantibodies like TPOAb and TgAb, integral to thyroid function.
Benefits
Selenium supplementation is associated with significant reductions in thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TgAb) in individuals with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, with standardized mean differences (SMD) of -2.44 and -2.76 respectively. Additionally, the combination of selenium and Myo-inositol may lead to lower TSH levels, although some findings are not statistically significant. Vitamin D may also assist in reducing autoantibody levels, but evidence remains less consistent. Overall, benefits are most pronounced in patients with euthyroid Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, with effect sizes indicating moderate to large clinical significance, particularly when maintained over a treatment period of at least six months.
How it works
Selenium is integral to the synthesis of selenoproteins, which play roles in antioxidant defense and the regulation of thyroid hormone production. It reduces oxidative stress within the thyroid gland, promoting its health. Vitamin D assists in modulating immune responses, potentially impacting the autoimmune mechanisms involved in thyroid disorders. Myo-inositol influences the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway, which can indirectly affect thyroid function through insulin signaling. These nutrients collectively support thyroid function and reduce autoimmune activity through their biochemical interactions.
Side effects
Generally, these supplements are safe when taken at recommended dosages. Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea for Myo-inositol, and for selenium, high doses can provoke hair loss and gastrointestinal issues. Vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia at excessive levels, manifesting as nausea or vomiting. Rare adverse effects include selenosis from selenium overconsumption, causing neurological symptoms, and kidney stones from high Vitamin D intake. Drug interactions may occur with selenium and antioxidants or blood thinners, while vitamin D can interact with calcium supplements and certain medications like cholestyramine. Patients should use caution if they have kidney or liver issues and pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare professionals before use.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for selenium ranges from 50 to 200 μg/day, with a maximum tolerable limit set at 400 μg/day. For Vitamin D, typical dosages are between 600 to 2000 IU/day, and up to 4000 IU/day is considered safe. Myo-inositol dosages usually range from 1 to 4 grams daily. These supplements can generally be taken anytime, ideally with meals to enhance absorption due to co-ingestion with dietary fats or other nutrients, such as vitamin E. It's critical to monitor intake to prevent adverse effects associated with high dosages.
FAQs
How long does it take to see benefits?
Benefits from selenium supplementation are typically observed after at least 6 months.
Are these supplements safe for long-term use?
Generally, yes, but monitoring is recommended to avoid excessive intake.
Can these supplements be used in combination?
Yes, but the efficacy and safety of combinations should be monitored.
What are the risks of high doses?
High doses of selenium can lead to selenosis, and high doses of Vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia.
When should these supplements be taken?
They can be taken at any time of day, preferably with meals.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2024.1445878/full – A systematic review examining the impact of selenium and other supplements on autoantibody levels in Hashimoto's thyroiditis showed significant reductions in TPOAb and TgAb levels with selenium supplementation, supported by high-quality evidence.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39698034/ – This meta-analysis highlights selenium's effectiveness in lowering autoantibody levels among patients with Hashimoto's, confirming findings of its antioxidant effects and relevance in thyroid health management.
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2705188 – This article emphasizes the importance of thyroid hormone therapy alongside dietary supplements, illustrating how complementary approaches can enhance quality of life and manage thyroid symptoms effectively.
Supplements Containing Thyroid
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