Subscribe to the newsletter!
.webp)
.webp)
Dietitian Tips - Supplement Suggestions
Date Added: 22-02-2023
Not only hormone treatment, the importance of supplementation in Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism
Contents
Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disease, which means that the person's immune system attacks its own cells and tissues. This leads to chronic inflammation, gradual destruction of the thyroid gland and a reduction in the amount of hormones it produces. Hashimoto's disease affects about 2% of the population. Women suffer from Hashimoto's 8 times more often than men.
The vast majority of people affected by hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease are treated by supplementing the missing thyroid hormones. Therefore, the standard is the daily intake of levothyroxine by patients - a substance that by its action replaces the hormone naturally produced by the thyroid gland. This is basic and necessary.
Unfortunately, for a large part of people, even properly selected hormonal therapy may not bring effects in the form of improving well-being, increasing energy levels and eliminating other troublesome symptoms, such as: drowsiness, problems with concentration and memory, i.e. the so-called. "brain fog", metabolic disorders, deterioration of the skin and nails, hair loss or weight gain. Other related factors may be at the root of the problem - chronic inflammation, infections, food intolerances, malabsorption and very often - typical vitamin and mineral deficiencies. People with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease are characterized by weaker absorption of minerals and vitamins from food, which may result in their significant deficiencies.
In the light of the latest scientific reports, the key to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and reducing inflammation may be a proper and balanced diet combined with properly planned supplementation that will supplement typical vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Unfortunately, this is an often neglected element of the procedure, which, however, is increasingly gaining recognition in the medical community.
Properly planned intake of vitamins and microelements can affect the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and significantly contribute to the improvement of the functioning of many other body systems, e.g. the immune system.
Selenium is referred to as a key micronutrient for the functioning of the thyroid gland. This is due to its multidirectional action - from antioxidant, through anti-inflammatory, to stimulating the active production of thyroid hormones. In addition, the thyroid gland is the organ with the highest concentration of selenium - it is characterized by the highest content of this element per gram of its tissue. Selenium in combination with proteins creates compounds with antioxidant activity. The results of scientific studies show that selenium supplementation in people with hypothyroidism contributes to the normalization of its function. In addition, in people with Hashimoto's disease taking selenium, the level of anti-TPO (anti-thyroid peroxidase) autoantibodies and indicators of inflammation decrease. In some cases, a 3-month supplementation with this element halved the level of anti-thyroid antibodies.
Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is an important element in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates and is responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system. Certainly, a group of people who should pay special attention to the appropriate intake of zinc with a diet are people suffering from various autoimmune diseases (e.g. Hashimoto's disease, celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, type I diabetes , psoriasis, multiple sclerosis). This is due to the fact that zinc has a significant impact on the regulation of the functioning of the immune system. The reduced level of this element in the body prevents the conversion of the T4 hormone to T3. It is also necessary for the production of TSH, which is why people who produce TSH constantly (with hypothyroidism) are much more likely to be deficient. An additional effect of an insufficient amount of zinc in the body may be a slowdown in the rate of hormone metabolism.
Vitamin D is primarily associated with its beneficial effect on bone tissue (maintaining its proper mineralization). Research shows, however, that the range of its properties can be much wider. Most likely, vitamin D deficiencies are conducive to the formation of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance and obesity.
Vitamin D can also affect the functioning of the immune system and reduce inflammation. There are also more and more reports emphasizing its importance in the context of the proper functioning of the thyroid gland in Hashimoto's disease. It has been observed that the concentration of vitamin D in the blood of people suffering from this disease and other autoimmune diseases is much lower than in the case of healthy people and is related to the amount of antibodies. In addition, studies conducted on animal models have shown that vitamin D supplementation prevents the development of autoimmune diseases. In addition, vitamin D deficiency in people with Hashimoto's disease may be the cause of impaired intestinal absorption of calcium, so the diet should be rich in these ingredients or it is worth considering its additional supplementation.
Due to its widely documented anti-inflammatory effect, it is crucial to include in the diet and supplement omega-3 fatty acids. Deficiencies of these fats in the diet affect as many as 96% of women diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis. It has been shown that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and their supplementation reduces the symptoms associated with Hashimoto's disease (type II diabetes, obesity or overweight), and may also alleviate existing symptoms caused by chronic inflammation.
Numerous studies using these fats have shown that they have a beneficial effect on:
Due to the wide spectrum of action of these compounds, it is recommended to introduce them to the daily diet in an amount of at least 500 mg. It is worth noting that the increased consumption of omega-3 fatty acids requires the introduction of an additional amount of vitamin E into the diet (in order to avoid free radical reactions).
Iron is another important element in the diet of people with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease. It has been shown that a long-term lack of adequate quality and quantity of iron consumed with the diet adversely affects thyroid metabolism - reduced conversion of T4 to T3 and increased secretion of TSH are observed. Importantly, thyroid peroxidase, which is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones, belongs to the heme enzymes, and therefore contains iron in its composition.
Due to autoimmune gastritis, which impairs iron absorption, iron deficiency is usually associated with Hashimoto's disease. As indicated in the literature, up to 60% of people with hypothyroidism may suffer from anemia, which is why it is recommended to increase the supply of absorbable forms of iron together with diet and appropriate supplementation.
Due to chronic inflammation, the diet of people with Hashimoto's disease should cover the demand for antioxidant vitamins - C and E. They have a very strong anti-free radical effect and relieve oxidative stress, which is a factor that destroys thyroid cells. The results of the study also showed that supplementation with 500 mg of vitamin C together with the thyroid hormone - levothyroxine significantly improved the absorption of this hormone.
Vitamin E supports the action of selenium through its antioxidant function. Similarly, vitamin C, which supports the absorption of iron and is one of the most important antioxidants found in blood plasma. It is worth noting that contraceptives may additionally contribute to the depletion of vitamin C and E.
Research on the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and vitamin B12 levels has shown that 7-12% of Hashimoto's patients suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.
Vitamin B12 contributes to the proper functioning of the nervous system. With its deficiencies, fatigue, depression, vision problems and nervous system disorders occur. Therefore, it is important to periodically monitor its concentration in the body. The form that is considered the best on the market (with the highest bioavailability for the body) is the methylated form of vitamin B12. This is extremely important in the context of the MTHFR gene mutation.
The basic rule is: "not all together" that is, do not combine all the ingredients in a random way or as part of one multivitamin supplement.
You should know that there are often complex, mutual interactions between individual vitamins and minerals that have a significant impact on their absorption by the body. These can be synergies (positive interactions, increasing mutual activity) or antagonisms (negative interactions, limiting each other's absorption and action). Sometimes the time of day when a given ingredient is taken is also crucial.
Therefore, it is a mistake to take vitamins and minerals in one portion - "at a time". This can significantly reduce the effectiveness of supplementation.
A much smarter solution is to take single preparations with a clean composition according to the scheme agreed with a doctor/dietician or to use multi-stage preparations, e.g. .
When using supplementation, special attention should be paid to the chemical form of the substance used in the selected preparation. This is very important in the context of its bioavailability. In general, it is recommended that minerals be used in the form of organic salts (e.g. zinc gluconate, magnesium citrate) or protein chelates (e.g. iron diglycinate).
The situation is similar in the case of selenium, which is characterized by relatively good bioavailability when it occurs in an organic form (e.g. selenomethionine) or in the form of selenium yeast.
When supplementing with vitamin B12 and folic acid, it is worth considering the use of active methylated forms, which is additionally crucial in people who have or suspect a mutation in the MTHFR gene.
It is also worth remembering that vitamins A, D, E and K are fat-soluble, so oil is their natural carrier.
You should choose products with a clean composition that do not contain unnecessary fillers, dyes and auxiliary substances. Although it is not required on the Polish market, it is worth paying attention to whether the preparation is manufactured in accordance with pharmaceutical standards.
In the case of Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism, it is very important to regularly check the levels of vitamins and minerals. Such analyzes are offered by most laboratories dealing with analytical tests. When planning supplementation, the tests should be performed before starting it and then repeated every few months. On their basis, it is possible to correct the supplementation plan and monitor it. The results should be consulted with a doctor or nutritionist.
Understanding nutrition and its role in recovery is a very important part of health care. Nutritional therapy in people with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's should be focused largely on recognizing and correcting nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, the selection of appropriate preparations is crucial and should be based on knowledge and in-depth analysis.
Take advantage of the discount:
.png)
The vast majority of people affected by hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease are treated by supplementing the missing thyroid hormones. Therefore, the standard is the daily intake of levothyroxine by patients - a substance that by its action replaces the hormone naturally produced by the thyroid gland. This is basic and necessary.
Unfortunately, for a large part of people, even properly selected hormonal therapy may not bring effects in the form of improving well-being, increasing energy levels and eliminating other troublesome symptoms, such as: drowsiness, problems with concentration and memory, i.e. the so-called. "brain fog", metabolic disorders, deterioration of the skin and nails, hair loss or weight gain. Other related factors may be at the root of the problem - chronic inflammation, infections, food intolerances, malabsorption and very often - typical vitamin and mineral deficiencies. People with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease are characterized by weaker absorption of minerals and vitamins from food, which may result in their significant deficiencies.
In the light of the latest scientific reports, the key to the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and reducing inflammation may be a proper and balanced diet combined with properly planned supplementation that will supplement typical vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Unfortunately, this is an often neglected element of the procedure, which, however, is increasingly gaining recognition in the medical community.
Properly planned intake of vitamins and microelements can affect the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and significantly contribute to the improvement of the functioning of many other body systems, e.g. the immune system.
WHAT INGREDIENTS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WHEN PLANNING SUPPLEMENTATION?
SELENIUM
Selenium is referred to as a key micronutrient for the functioning of the thyroid gland. This is due to its multidirectional action - from antioxidant, through anti-inflammatory, to stimulating the active production of thyroid hormones. In addition, the thyroid gland is the organ with the highest concentration of selenium - it is characterized by the highest content of this element per gram of its tissue. Selenium in combination with proteins creates compounds with antioxidant activity. The results of scientific studies show that selenium supplementation in people with hypothyroidism contributes to the normalization of its function. In addition, in people with Hashimoto's disease taking selenium, the level of anti-TPO (anti-thyroid peroxidase) autoantibodies and indicators of inflammation decrease. In some cases, a 3-month supplementation with this element halved the level of anti-thyroid antibodies.
ZINC
Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is an important element in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates and is responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system. Certainly, a group of people who should pay special attention to the appropriate intake of zinc with a diet are people suffering from various autoimmune diseases (e.g. Hashimoto's disease, celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, type I diabetes , psoriasis, multiple sclerosis). This is due to the fact that zinc has a significant impact on the regulation of the functioning of the immune system. The reduced level of this element in the body prevents the conversion of the T4 hormone to T3. It is also necessary for the production of TSH, which is why people who produce TSH constantly (with hypothyroidism) are much more likely to be deficient. An additional effect of an insufficient amount of zinc in the body may be a slowdown in the rate of hormone metabolism.
VITAMIN D3
Vitamin D is primarily associated with its beneficial effect on bone tissue (maintaining its proper mineralization). Research shows, however, that the range of its properties can be much wider. Most likely, vitamin D deficiencies are conducive to the formation of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance and obesity.
Vitamin D can also affect the functioning of the immune system and reduce inflammation. There are also more and more reports emphasizing its importance in the context of the proper functioning of the thyroid gland in Hashimoto's disease. It has been observed that the concentration of vitamin D in the blood of people suffering from this disease and other autoimmune diseases is much lower than in the case of healthy people and is related to the amount of antibodies. In addition, studies conducted on animal models have shown that vitamin D supplementation prevents the development of autoimmune diseases. In addition, vitamin D deficiency in people with Hashimoto's disease may be the cause of impaired intestinal absorption of calcium, so the diet should be rich in these ingredients or it is worth considering its additional supplementation.
Products related with article
No data to display
OMEGA-3 ACIDS
Due to its widely documented anti-inflammatory effect, it is crucial to include in the diet and supplement omega-3 fatty acids. Deficiencies of these fats in the diet affect as many as 96% of women diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis. It has been shown that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and their supplementation reduces the symptoms associated with Hashimoto's disease (type II diabetes, obesity or overweight), and may also alleviate existing symptoms caused by chronic inflammation.
Numerous studies using these fats have shown that they have a beneficial effect on:
- reducing episodes of mood disorders, depression,
- reduction of chronic fatigue and excessive sleepiness,
- stabilization of lipid metabolism disorders,
- improvement of hair and skin condition.
Due to the wide spectrum of action of these compounds, it is recommended to introduce them to the daily diet in an amount of at least 500 mg. It is worth noting that the increased consumption of omega-3 fatty acids requires the introduction of an additional amount of vitamin E into the diet (in order to avoid free radical reactions).
IRON
Iron is another important element in the diet of people with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's disease. It has been shown that a long-term lack of adequate quality and quantity of iron consumed with the diet adversely affects thyroid metabolism - reduced conversion of T4 to T3 and increased secretion of TSH are observed. Importantly, thyroid peroxidase, which is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones, belongs to the heme enzymes, and therefore contains iron in its composition.
Due to autoimmune gastritis, which impairs iron absorption, iron deficiency is usually associated with Hashimoto's disease. As indicated in the literature, up to 60% of people with hypothyroidism may suffer from anemia, which is why it is recommended to increase the supply of absorbable forms of iron together with diet and appropriate supplementation.
ANTIOXIDANTS
Due to chronic inflammation, the diet of people with Hashimoto's disease should cover the demand for antioxidant vitamins - C and E. They have a very strong anti-free radical effect and relieve oxidative stress, which is a factor that destroys thyroid cells. The results of the study also showed that supplementation with 500 mg of vitamin C together with the thyroid hormone - levothyroxine significantly improved the absorption of this hormone.
Vitamin E supports the action of selenium through its antioxidant function. Similarly, vitamin C, which supports the absorption of iron and is one of the most important antioxidants found in blood plasma. It is worth noting that contraceptives may additionally contribute to the depletion of vitamin C and E.
VITAMIN B12
Research on the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and vitamin B12 levels has shown that 7-12% of Hashimoto's patients suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.
Vitamin B12 contributes to the proper functioning of the nervous system. With its deficiencies, fatigue, depression, vision problems and nervous system disorders occur. Therefore, it is important to periodically monitor its concentration in the body. The form that is considered the best on the market (with the highest bioavailability for the body) is the methylated form of vitamin B12. This is extremely important in the context of the MTHFR gene mutation.
WHAT TO PAY ATTENTION TO WHEN PLANNING SUPPLEMENTATION?
The basic rule is: "not all together" that is, do not combine all the ingredients in a random way or as part of one multivitamin supplement.
You should know that there are often complex, mutual interactions between individual vitamins and minerals that have a significant impact on their absorption by the body. These can be synergies (positive interactions, increasing mutual activity) or antagonisms (negative interactions, limiting each other's absorption and action). Sometimes the time of day when a given ingredient is taken is also crucial.
Therefore, it is a mistake to take vitamins and minerals in one portion - "at a time". This can significantly reduce the effectiveness of supplementation.
A much smarter solution is to take single preparations with a clean composition according to the scheme agreed with a doctor/dietician or to use multi-stage preparations, e.g. .
Chemical forms are of great importance
When using supplementation, special attention should be paid to the chemical form of the substance used in the selected preparation. This is very important in the context of its bioavailability. In general, it is recommended that minerals be used in the form of organic salts (e.g. zinc gluconate, magnesium citrate) or protein chelates (e.g. iron diglycinate).
The situation is similar in the case of selenium, which is characterized by relatively good bioavailability when it occurs in an organic form (e.g. selenomethionine) or in the form of selenium yeast.
When supplementing with vitamin B12 and folic acid, it is worth considering the use of active methylated forms, which is additionally crucial in people who have or suspect a mutation in the MTHFR gene.
It is also worth remembering that vitamins A, D, E and K are fat-soluble, so oil is their natural carrier.
You should choose products with a clean composition that do not contain unnecessary fillers, dyes and auxiliary substances. Although it is not required on the Polish market, it is worth paying attention to whether the preparation is manufactured in accordance with pharmaceutical standards.
Regular examinations
In the case of Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism, it is very important to regularly check the levels of vitamins and minerals. Such analyzes are offered by most laboratories dealing with analytical tests. When planning supplementation, the tests should be performed before starting it and then repeated every few months. On their basis, it is possible to correct the supplementation plan and monitor it. The results should be consulted with a doctor or nutritionist.
SUMMARY
Understanding nutrition and its role in recovery is a very important part of health care. Nutritional therapy in people with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's should be focused largely on recognizing and correcting nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, the selection of appropriate preparations is crucial and should be based on knowledge and in-depth analysis.
Take advantage of the discount:
AUTHOR
Patryk Chodyniecki
Patryk Chodyniecki
Patryk Chodyniecki
A passionate bodybuilding, swimming, and martial arts enthusiast. He has been practicing strength sports for over 10 years, alternating between boxing, MMA, and swimming, which he enjoys combining. He is also interested in the broad field of supplementation and nutrition, which he gradually implements into his training.
Bibliography:
www.endocrineweb.com Nutrients Hashimotos thyroiditis
www.healthline.com Hashimoto diet
www.palomahealth.com Top vitamins hypothyroidism
www.niddk.nih.gov Hashimotos disease
Bibliography:
www.endocrineweb.com Nutrients Hashimotos thyroiditis
www.healthline.com Hashimoto diet
www.palomahealth.com Top vitamins hypothyroidism
www.niddk.nih.gov Hashimotos disease
A passionate bodybuilding, swimming, and martial arts enthusiast. He has been practicing strength sports for over 10 years, alternating between boxing, MMA, and swimming, which he enjoys combining. He is also interested in the broad field of supplementation and nutrition, which he gradually implements into his training.
Bibliography:
www.endocrineweb.com Nutrients Hashimotos thyroiditis
www.healthline.com Hashimoto diet
www.palomahealth.com Top vitamins hypothyroidism
www.niddk.nih.gov Hashimotos disease
Bibliography:
www.endocrineweb.com Nutrients Hashimotos thyroiditis
www.healthline.com Hashimoto diet
www.palomahealth.com Top vitamins hypothyroidism
www.niddk.nih.gov Hashimotos disease
Comments (0)
