Around 20 million people in the U.S. have some kind of thyroid imbalance. What’s more, finding the proper supplements to better the functioning of the thyroid is not always straightforward due to the abundance of pills and potions whose labels claim that they are the best solution for thyroid issues. This is why we need to learn how to adequately pick the most effective supplements.
Always Check the Label
First, you need to look at the nutrition label that lists the active ingredients and the serving size. The inactive ingredients are labeled as ‘other ingredients’. When it comes to the inactive ingredients, this does not mean that you should not pay attention to. Some of them can be harmless whereas others are unhealthy. Some of the adverse ones are fillers, binders, artificial flavors, as well as chemical dyes.
The Best Supplements
Always go with supplements that are made from wildcrafted and organic substances because they are naturally grown and are not GMO or treated with pesticides and fertilizers.
Iodine
This is a vital nutrient for a properly-functioning thyroid as it is a building block for the T3 and T4 hormones. Without its presence, the thyroid is unable to produce the hormones for the regulation of development, growth, and metabolism. When one does not have sufficient amounts of iodine, they can experience physical and mental impairments. This is also a reason for goiter and hypothyroidism. Opt for Himalayan salt which contains iodine and because it is pure and contains important minerals. The best supplement of iodine is nascent iodine suspended in a vegetable glycerin base.
Turmeric
Turmeric has the power to soothe the thyroid, which is great because the thyroid can become irritated as a result of environmental pollutants and various chemicals. The curcumin in turmeric was found to impede the development of cancerous thyroid cells.
Selenium
This micronutrient is needed by iodine to convert T4 into the more powerful T3. Unfortunately, lack of selenium can lead to thyroid destruction and goiter. You should also increase the consumption of Brazil nuts because it contains selenium. The best selenium supplementation is considered to be the one that comes from our diet.
Vitamin B12
According to a study, B12 supplements sped up the recovery in people who suffered from vitamin B12 deficiency. This is a pivotal vitamin for a healthy thyroid functioning. A lot of people who lack it also have a sluggish thyroid.
What Is the Appropriate Dose?
In this case, balance is key and the thyroid needs sufficient amounts of iodine and selenium and not too much or too little. Both of these can have an adverse effect; make sure to consult your physician for the adequate dosage according to your personal needs.
What Supplements to Avoid
Synthetic supplements
They only offer one isolated nutrient; however, nutrients do not operate on its own. The nutrients from fruits and veggies coexist with enzymes, transporters, and cofactors so that the nutrient can be more usable to the body. These additional components are not present in lab-made synthetic supplements.
Desiccated thyroid extract
This is one of the most used therapies for a better thyroid functioning. Nowadays, people who use it are those who had their thyroid removed. Though it may be crucial, it is made from animal glands and it can be problematic for vegetarians and vegans or people who simply avoid meat and meat products.