What Supplements Affect TSH Levels?
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a crucial hormone that plays a vital role in the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism and energy, amongst other essential bodily functions.
Fluctuations in TSH levels can lead to a wide range of health issues, including weight gain or loss, mood swings, fatigue, and other symptoms. In many cases, such fluctuations in TSH levels can be managed through a balanced diet and the use of supplements that help improve thyroid health. However, not all supplements are created equal, and some supplements can negatively affect TSH levels. In this article, we will explore the supplements that can affect TSH levels and how they do it.
Understanding TSH levels
Before we delve into the supplements that can affect TSH levels, let’s briefly discuss what TSH levels are and how they impact thyroid function. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and is responsible for stimulating the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. The normal range for TSH levels is 0.4 to 4.0 milli-international units per liter (mIU/L).
Higher TSH levels indicate an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), while lower TSH levels indicate an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). If your TSH levels are outside the normal range, it may indicate an underlying thyroid condition that requires medical attention.
Selenium
Selenium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in thyroid function. It helps regulate the production of thyroid hormones and helps protect the thyroid from damage. However, excessive selenium intake can interfere with thyroid function and affect TSH levels.
In a 2014 study, researchers found that high doses of selenium supplementation could lower TSH levels and affect thyroid function. It is essential to speak with a healthcare provider before taking selenium supplements and to ensure that you are taking them at the recommended dosage.
Iodine
Iodine is another crucial nutrient that is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. However, excessive iodine intake can affect thyroid function and lead to altered TSH levels, especially in those already dealing with thyroid issues.
In one study, researchers found that excessive iodine supplementation could lead to a decrease in TSH levels in those with thyroid-stimulating hormone deficiency or autoimmune thyroiditis. In contrast, it could increase TSH levels in those with normal thyroid function.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps support healthy bones and immune function. However, research suggests that low levels of vitamin D may increase the risk of thyroid disease and thyroid dysfunction, leading to altered TSH levels.
In one study, researchers found that individuals with normal vitamin D levels had a lower risk of developing thyroid diseases than those with low vitamin D levels. Supplementing with vitamin D may help improve thyroid health and manage TSH levels in those deficient in vitamin D.
Iron
Iron is a vital nutrient that is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. Low iron levels can lead to decreased thyroid function and altered TSH levels. Iron deficiency is more common in women than men and can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and trouble concentrating.
Iron supplementation may help improve TSH levels in those with iron deficiency and hypothyroidism. However, it is essential to speak with a healthcare provider before taking iron supplements, as too much iron can be harmful.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that has numerous health benefits, including supporting thyroid function. Research suggests that low magnesium levels may lead to decreased thyroid function and altered TSH levels.
In one study, researchers found that supplementing with magnesium may help improve thyroid function and TSH levels in those with hypothyroidism. Magnesium may also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression commonly experienced by those with thyroid disease.
Zinc
Zinc is another essential mineral that plays a critical role in thyroid function. Zinc deficiency can lead to decreased thyroid function and altered TSH levels. However, excessive zinc intake can also impact thyroid health.
In one study, researchers found that zinc supplementation in rats could impact thyroid function and TSH levels, indicating the need for caution when supplementing with zinc. Speak with a healthcare provider before taking zinc supplements to ensure that you are taking them at the appropriate dosage.
Other Supplements to Consider
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that can benefit human health. Research suggests that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome may support thyroid health and improve TSH levels. Consider taking a probiotic supplement or incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet to support thyroid health.
B vitamins
B vitamins are essential for energy metabolism and may also help support thyroid function. Low levels of B vitamins can lead to an underactive thyroid, affecting TSH levels. Consider taking a B-complex supplement or incorporating B-vitamin-rich foods into your diet to support thyroid health.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. These fatty acids may also benefit thyroid health by supporting the production of thyroid hormones and improving TSH levels. Consider taking an omega-3 supplement or incorporating omega-3-rich foods into your diet to support thyroid health.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining proper TSH levels is crucial for overall health and well-being. While supplements can help support thyroid health and improve TSH levels, it is essential to speak with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or changing your supplement regimen. Be sure to take supplements at the appropriate dosage and always purchase supplements from reputable sources.
The Most Common Questions and Their Answers Related to This Topic
- Can taking too much selenium affect TSH levels?
- Can supplementing with iron improve TSH levels?
- Is it safe to supplement with zinc?
- How can probiotics benefit thyroid health?
- What are some B-vitamin-rich foods?
Yes, high doses of selenium supplementation can lower TSH levels and affect thyroid function.
Yes, supplementing with iron may help improve TSH levels in those with iron deficiency and hypothyroidism.
Speak with a healthcare provider before taking zinc supplements to ensure that you are taking them at the appropriate dosage.
Research suggests that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome may support thyroid health and improve TSH levels.
B-vitamin-rich foods include whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and dark green leafy vegetables.
References
– Choi WJ, Kim J. Dietary Factors and the Risk of Hypothyroidism: A Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17(10):3521. Published 2020 May 15. doi:10.3390/ijerph17103521
– Garber JR, Cobin RH, Gharib H, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for hypothyroidism in adults: cosponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Thyroid Association. Thyroid. 2012;22(12):1200-1235. doi: 10.1089/thy.2012.0205
– Güney E, Başaranoğlu M, Mutlu NM, et al. Evaluation of serum trace element and heavy metal levels and related oxidative stress status in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019;16(18):3412. Published 2019 Sep 11. doi:10.3390/ijerph16183412
– Mao J, Pop VJ, Bath SC, Vader HL, Redman CW, Rayman MP. Effect of low-dose selenium on thyroid autoimmunity and thyroid function in UK pregnant women with mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency. Eur J Nutr. 2016;55(1):55-61. doi: 10.1007/s00394-014-0822-y