When dietary changes are not enough, supplement options can give the thyroid gland extra support to find the necessary balance.
NOTE: Some medications, including thyroid medications, may be contraindicated with one of more of these options. Please check with your nutritionist of medical provider before starting any supplements.
Here are our top 10 supplements for thyroid support
(in no particular order!)
1. Selenium: Selenium is a crucial trace element that supports the function of the thyroid by helping the hormone T4 create the active form T3. In a recent study, consuming at least 55 mcg of selenium was shown to normalize T4 and T3 levels (1). Adults require a minimum 55 mcg daily but can consume up to 400 mcg safely, with most studies showing 80-200 mcg for thyroid health (2).
2. Zinc: Zinc helps produce TRH (in the hypothalamus), TSH (in the pituitary gland), aids in the conversion of T4 to T3, and helps support active T3 bind to the proper receptor site on cells. One 12-week study found that incorporating 30 mg of Zinc along with 200 mcg of selenium could increase T4 and T3 while decreasing TSH levels (3). A supplemental recommendation for zinc would not exceed 40 mg daily, with a dose of 15-30 mg being most common. It is important to be mindful of dosing zinc, as it depletes copper, if taken in excess.
3. Iron: Low iron has been connected to the development of hypothyroidism as well as making thyroid symptoms worse. The reason for this is because iron is a part of the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is needed to covert T4 to T3. Further, iodine needs iron in order for it to be fully utilized in the body (4). A bisglyciate or succinate form of iron is easier on the digestive tract with enhanced absorption (5). Iron is also better absorbed when taken with vitamin C, which is the reason it is commonly included in an iron supplement. Integrative Therapeutics Iron Complex is a nice option to consider.
4. Vitamin A: A deficiency in Vitamin A is noted to be a contributor to thyroid impairment. It has been shown to inhibit iodine uptake and decrease the conversation of T4 to T3 (6). Vitamin A collectively refers to retinoids (having hormone-like properties) and carotenoids (non-hormonal like properties). Excessive intake of retinols can lead to toxic effects like birth defects, nervous system irregularities, and reduced bone mineral density, therefore it is important to supplement this fat-soluble vitamin primarily as carotenoids, unless under the guidance of your nutritionist. (5). Pure Encapsulation O.N.E. Multivitamin contains vitamin A that is mostly from carotenoids, while also providing zinc, selenium, vitamin D, and other nutrients.
5. Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports overall anti-inflammatory and immune health support in the body, inhibiting the likelihood of autoimmune responses that can emerge as thyroid conditions (7). A few reasons supplementation may be necessary are those who are already deficient, live too far north or in a colder climate, or just aren’t outdoors enough. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin stored in our body; therefore, ensuring your levels are checked before (and during) your supplementation by your practitioner is important to ensure you are taking the right amount for your needs. Typically, it is best to include a vitamin D supplement that also contains vitamin K2, to aid in absorption. Dosing will vary based on labs values. Aim for maintaining optimal levels of at least 50 ng/mL (5).
6. Omega-3’s: Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly referred to as fish oil supplements, help lower inflammation but also impact cellular health, including TSH receptor activity, signaling, and thyroid hormone synthesis (5). One study found those with higher levels of Omega 3’s had lower symptoms of hypothyroidism and higher amounts of thyroid hormones T4 and T3 (5). Consider adding 1,000 mg (or more) daily of supplementation to support thyroid health. We love Metagenics OmegaGenics product line, with a variety of doses available, depending on your overall needs.
7. Ginger: Ginger has many protective anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to its active component, gingerols. In one recent study, 500 mg of ginger twice daily was shown to reduce hypothyroid symptoms such as cold intolerance, appetite issues, dry skin, and dizziness, among others, in those with normal TSH levels (8). Pure Encapsulations Ginger extract provides 500 mg in each capsule.
8. Magnesium: is a mineral that regulates thyroid functions, especially those related to iodine uptake. Like zinc, magnesium is involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, keeping our hormones and thyroid in check. Magnesium Glycinate is a well-tolerated and highly absorbable supplemental form, however, many forms of magnesium are available providing various benefits. Supplement dosing can be 200 mg or higher per day depending on your needs. Your nutritionist (aka one of our team members) can help determine what form and dose is ideal for you.
9. Ashwagandha: Withania somnifera is the botanical name for ashwagandha. It has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. This nontoxic adaptogen has anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties, among others. A recent study gave participants 300 mg twice daily for 8 weeks and found improvements in TSH, T4, and T3 levels (9).
10. Myo-inositol: Also known as vitamin B8. This water-soluble vitamin is found in nearly all cells of the body. It is essential for signaling many hormones in the body, including TSH. Studies have found supplementation with myo-inositol can help balance TSH levels and reduce thyroid antibodies. Dosing can vary from 600 mg to 2000 mg per day, for most people (10).
BONUS: Melatonin: Commonly thought of as the sleep hormone, melatonin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory making it a focus of research for many aspects of health. Emerging research is finding melatonin to be helpful for improving thyroid function, while also supporting other hormones. We like this option since impaired thyroid health rarely occurs by itself due to the interconnectedness of the entire endocrine system (adrenal health, ovarian health, insulin regulation, etc.) (10). Our top selection is a phyto (plant) melatonin, HerbatoninPRO.
Overall, there are many supplemental options to support an under active thyroid; these are just a few. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplements. It is highly recommended to work with a nutritionist or qualified healthcare provider to develop a supplement protocol and dosing schedule that is right and appropriate for your unique needs.
Many times, a high-quality multivitamin/multimineral can help you achieve adequate intake of many key nutrients. We also are a huge fan of Metagenics Wellness Essential packs, as they contain the multivitamin/multi-mineral, omega 3’s, and vitamin D.
To explore supplements and to order with a 10% discount, visit our Full Script online store.
Written by Kimberly King, MS and Kim Ross DCN
Last reviewed: July 23, 2024
For more information on thyroid health explore these other blogs:
Download the Top 10 Supplements for Thyroid Support Infographic below! 👇🏼
Disclaimer: Remember to always check with your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplements. These may also be contraindicated with current medications or other lifestyle choices. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
This content is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace the guidance of your healthcare provider(s).
Written by Kimberly King, MS and Kim Ross, DCN
Last reviewed and Updated July 23, 2024
References: 1. Hu W, Zhao C, Hu H, Yin S. Food sources of selenium and its relationship with chronic diseases. Nutrients. 2021;13(5). doi:10.3390/nu13051739
2. Office of Dietary Supplements. Selenium-Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. National Institutes of Health. Published April 15, 2024. Accessed July 22, 2024. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-HealthProfessional/
3. Mahmoodianfard S, Vafa M, Golgiri F, et al. Effects of Zinc and Selenium Supplementation on Thyroid Function in Overweight and Obese Hypothyroid Female Patients: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial. J Am Coll Nutr. 2015;34(5). doi:10.1080/07315724.2014.926161
4. Garofalo V, Condorelli RA, Cannarella R, Aversa A, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Relationship between Iron Deficiency and Thyroid Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2023;15(22). doi:10.3390/nu15224790
5. Rakel D. Integrative Medicine. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2023.
6. Capriello S, Stramazzo I, Bagaglini MF, Brusca N, Virili C, Centanni M. The relationship between thyroid disorders and vitamin A.: A narrative minireview. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022;13. doi:10.3389/fendo.2022.968215
7. Knezevic J, Starchl C, Berisha AT, Amrein K. Thyroid-gut-axis: How does the microbiota influence thyroid function? Nutrients. 2020;12(6). doi:10.3390/nu12061769
8. Ashraf H, Heydari M, Shams M, Zarshenas MM, Tavakoli A, Sayadi M. Efficacy of Ginger Supplementation in Relieving Persistent Hypothyroid Symptoms in Patients with Controlled Primary Hypothyroidism: A Pilot Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2022;2022. doi:10.1155/2022/5456855
9. Wiciński M, Fajkiel-Madajczyk A, Kurant Z, et al. Can Ashwagandha Benefit the Endocrine System?—A Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(22). doi:10.3390/ijms242216513
10. Benvenga S, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Bonofiglio D, Asamoah E. Nutraceutical supplements in the thyroid setting: Health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Nutrients. Published online 2019. doi:10.3390/nu11092214
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