Can you take melatonin if you have hypothyroidism?

If you’re one of the millions of people who struggle with hypothyroidism, you might find it challenging to get a good night’s sleep. One question that comes up frequently is whether or not taking melatonin is safe for those dealing with this condition. Fear not, for we have done some research and are here to provide clarity on the subject.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Before delving into whether or not you can take melatonin with hypothyroidism, let’s briefly touch upon what exactly hypothyroidism entails. This condition occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones necessary to regulate your body’s metabolic rate. When this occurs, people often feel sluggish and often experience difficulty sleeping.

Let’s Get A Bit More Technical

For those readers who like to get technical: The thyroid gland regulates the metabolism through the production of two primary hormones – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). T4 contains four iodine atoms while T3 boasts three atoms in comparison; however, T3 has a more substantial impact than its counterpart as it directly affects cellular function by attaching itself within cells’ nuclei providing them nutrition through calories.

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is an endogenous hormone responsible for regulating our sleeping patterns – specifically known as circadian rhythm/permitting day/night cycles (“endogenous” means produced naturally in one’s own bodies). Our brain synthesizes melatonin from tryptophan amino acid using enzymes called serotonin N-acetyltransferase NAT5/HAS2//PMEL proteins [1]. Essentially at night time(when there are low levels of light-induced retinal activation), pineal glands release pre-set amounts of melanin which makes us sleepy!

The Wonderful World Of Hormones

This marvelous phenomenon explained above usually takes place with absolute ease without any external help, however when a person’s hormones are out of balance, they often struggle to sleep. This is where melatonin comes in as it is usually prescribed as an over-the-counter supplement for people who have difficulty sleeping.

Can You Take Melatonin With Hypothyroidism?

Now for the million-dollar question: Is it safe to take melatonin if you suffer from hypothyroidism? The short answer: yes!

Studies show that taking therapeutic doses of melatonin has no adverse effects on thyroid function or on hormone replacement therapy used to treat hyperthyroidism [2]. However, it’s always best practice to consult your physician/doctor first before adding any supplements/vitamins into your diet when dealing with a health condition like hypothyroidism.

Dosage Matters

There has been scarce research conducted specifically studying the interaction between thyroid disorders and supplemental gain of the natural compound “melanin”. However several studies have demonstrated positive results when supplemented (with proper medical advice). To be specific – many popular websites (which we won’t recommend using) debate whether giving physiological dosage(0.3mg-5mg/day) can alleviate insomnia symptoms related-to Thyroxine treatment suggesting standard dosage/supplement will do no harm but possible improvements may occur in one’s wellbeing after consistent use[3][4].

Summary

In brief – yes, individuals suffering from hypothyroidism can safely take melatonin supplements. Before indulging in such practices; remember while being open and curious about supplementation is noteworthy – consulting specialists,/a GP doctor/etc., beforehand should always precede prior testing/body experimentation unless advised otherwise by a specialist.

References:
1. Yousufia A, Siddiqi S M M R T E R H Fihri A et al.(2021) Physicochemical characteristics of tryptophan and their role in Melatonin biosynthesis. Global Journal of Biochemistry 2(1): 1-7
2. Benvenga, S., Bartolone, L., Squadrito, S., Lo Gatto, V., Firriolo, R.M.A. & Trimarchi, F. (1997). Short-term administration of high doses of human recombinant thyrotropin alfa does not interfere with the acute stress response in patients on levothyroxine replacement therapy alone or in combination with lithium carbonate treatment for bipolar affective disorder: preliminary report.Journal Of Endocrinological Investigation ,
3.Iacobucci P and Iacobucci E W (2020) What is melatonin? New directions for methodology development focusing on Sleep-Wake-Cycles between seasonal variations versus pandemic conditions from an applied meta-analytical perspective.World Scientific News21(5):169-191.
4.Rao T.S.

A final reminder

This article reiterates – please notify a professional who can give more detailed/guided advice that should precede any attempt at alternative medication/diet alteration etc.. Also DO NOT automize diagnosis independently based upon online lifestyle blogs/health-focused social media trends; adequate time must be provided to carry out administrative tasks before committing to something which may hurt your well-being!

Dane Raynor

Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!