Hyperthyroidism
Check before taking supplements
Elaine Godley
Last Update a month ago
Have you noticed that, while hypothyroidism seems to get a lot of attention, hyperthyroidism is not as widely discussed online?
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid becomes overactive and excess thyroid hormones are produced. In practice, this means a free T4 greater than 1.8ng/dL and/or free T3 being greater than 4.2pg/mL.
This elevation in free T4 and free T3 can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, diarrhea, increased appetite and difficulty sleeping. It can also cause irregular menstrual periods; in fact, women are five times more likely to develop hyperthyroidism than men (1).
Those with hyperthyroidism generate more free radicals during hormone production than those without the condition. This creates a viscous cycle of oxidative stress that can lead to inflammation and even thyroid autoimmunity.
Luckily, certain minerals can support antioxidant levels and reduce inflammation in the thyroid so that it’s protected from further damage. For example, selenium and magnesium are important for the production of the body’s master antioxidant, glutathione. Meanwhile, zinc supports the immune system, defends against oxidative stress and helps stabilise thyroid activity (2).
Those with hyperthyroidism naturally utilise more minerals in an attempt to keep up with their thyroid’s overactivity. Therefore, deficiency can be more prevalent in this group of patients. This can be an issue in terms of reduced immune and antioxidant support, as well as bone health.
Elevated thyroid hormones can also increase the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, further raising the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures (2). In such cases, magnesium can help balance calcium and phosphorus levels.
However, it’s important to test your mineral status before supplementing. For example, minerals like iodine and iron can increase oxidative stress in the body; so it’s vital that we tailor our recommendations appropriately and not cause any adverse effects.
Original article (amended) by Karen Watkins
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References:
(1) https://www.uptodate.com/contents/disorders-that-cause-hyperthyroidism
(2) Kravchenko V and Zakharchenko T. 2023. Thyroid hormones and minerals in immunocorrection of disorders in autoimmune thyroid diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 14:1225494.
References:
(1) https://www.uptodate.com/contents/disorders-that-cause-hyperthyroidism
(2) Kravchenko V and Zakharchenko T. 2023. Thyroid hormones and minerals in immunocorrection of disorders in autoimmune thyroid diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 14:1225494.