The thyroid gland produces hormones that play a critical role in regulating metabolism, body temperature, energy production, and heart rate. When the thyroid is underactive, it can lead to a range of health problems. Vitamins can help regulate the production of thyroid hormones, support metabolic processes, and provide antioxidants to protect against oxidative stress. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and what vitamins can be useful helps in managing the condition better and ensuring optimal thyroid health.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. The symptoms of hypothyroidism can be different for different people.

Fatigue and weakness
Sensitivity to cold
Dry skin and hair
Hair loss or thinning hair
Constipation
Depression or mood swings
Joint pain or muscle stiffness
Irregular or heavy menstrual periods
Difficulty with memory or concentration

These symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if one is experiencing these symptoms. A blood test can diagnose hypothyroidism. The treatment for the disease typically involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone that replaces the hormones that the thyroid gland is not producing.

Causes of thyroid disorders
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland and damages it over time. The disease can also be caused if the thyroid gland is removed surgically or damaged by radiation therapy. Iodine deficiency is another common cause. Additionally, women, especially those over the age of 60, are more likely to get affected by thyroid disorders than men. This is due to hormonal changes during menopause and the natural aging process. In some cases, babies are born with an underactive thyroid gland, which can lead to developmental problems if not treated promptly.

Best vitamins and minerals for healthy thyroid function
The thyroid gland is heavily dependent on nutrients and vitamins. Eating processed, sugary, and fatty foods can result in a deficiency of key nutrients necessary for regulating thyroid hormone production.

Vitamin D
When exposed to sunshine, the skin produces vitamin D, which is a necessary nutrient. However, people do not get enough vitamin D from sunlight and need to get it from food or supplements.  According to studies, a lack of vitamin D increases the likelihood of developing hypothyroidism. Vitamin D is essential for immune system control and can lower the risk of autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an important nutrient that supports healthy vision, skin, and immune function. It is also crucial for thyroid health, as it helps regulate thyroid hormone production. A deficiency in vitamin A can impair thyroid function. However, it is important to note that excessive intake of vitamin A can be toxic, so it is important to consult a doctor before consuming it.

Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is essential for producing red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to fatigue, depression, and other symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is important for producing serotonin and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood and sleep. A deficiency in vitamin B6 may also lead to symptoms of hypothyroidism, like tiredness and depression.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. It is also important for thyroid health, as it helps to regulate thyroid hormone levels.

Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that is required for the production of the enzyme that converts the main thyroid hormone (T4) to the active thyroid hormone T3, thus protecting the gland from oxidative stress. Studies show that selenium supplementation can improve thyroid function in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Iodine
Iodine is a mineral essential for the production of thyroid hormones. An iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism, and in severe cases, it can lead to goiter, a swelling of the thyroid gland. However, it is important to note that excessive intake of iodine to avoid other health concerns.

Zinc
Zinc plays a role in regulating immune function and protecting against oxidative stress. Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can improve thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism.

Iron
Iron is important for thyroid function because it helps transport thyroid hormones throughout the body. An iron deficiency can lead to decreased thyroid hormone production and a sluggish metabolism.

Magnesium
Magnesium plays a crucial role in thyroid function by helping convert the inactive form of thyroid hormone into the active form, that is, T4 to T3. It also helps regulate the body’s response to stress, which can impact thyroid function.

While vitamins can support thyroid function, they should not be used as a substitute for other medical treatments. Therefore, people with thyroid disorders are advised to consult a healthcare professional before opting for any foods or supplements.

Best vitamin-rich foods for thyroid health
Vitamin D : Fatty fish, egg yolks, mushrooms, fortified dairy products, sunbathing
Vitamin A : Sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, liver, cod liver oil
Vitamin B12 : Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese, dairy products
Vitamin B6 : Chickpeas, tuna, salmon, potatoes, bananas, papayas
Vitamin E : Nuts, seeds, leafy greens, vegetable oils, pumpkin
Selenium : Brazil nuts, seafood, organ meats, whole grains
Iodine : Iodized salt, seaweed, seafood
Zinc : Oysters, beef, pork, poultry, beans