Still experiencing thyroid-related symptoms even when you’re taking thyroid medication? You may want to do some research on a mineral called selenium. Selenium protects the thyroid; low levels are associated with an increased risk of thyroid disease as well as higher rate of symptoms and inflammation.
In fact, an observational study of 6,152 adults showed a 69% increased risk of thyroid disease when living in a place with soil that is low in selenium.
Found mostly in meats, eggs, brazil nuts and grains, some people can get adequate amounts of selenium from food. Our soil and food, however, is not as nutrient-dense as it once was. In addition, gut issues may impair optimal nutritional absorption.
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that removes free radicals and prevens thyroid damage. It is responsible for the activation of T4 hormone into T3 and regulating thyroid hormone function. It also reduces inflammation, so it’s vital in lowering TPO antibodies that signify the thyroid is under autoimmune attack. Hence, low selenium is associated with autoimmune thyroid disorders, such as Hashomoto’s and Graves disease.
Selenium supplementation can be reduced by 40% in those with Hashimoto’s and high antibody levels. In a study of 71 patients with Hashimoto’s and high TPO antibodies given 200 mcg of selenium a day for 90 days in addition to their standard levothyroxine medication compared to levothyroxine and placebo, the participants receiving selenium had a 40% reduction in TPO antibodies compared to 10% in the placebo group. What’s even more promising is that 24% of those in the selenium arm of the study were able to achieve normal TPO levels with supplementation.
Supplementation with selenium has also been shown to slow the progression of autoimmune diseases, according to research. In addition to reducing thyroid antibodies, selenium increases T-regulatory cells, which are instrumental in immune function and autoimmune disease prevention.
Our Methyl Multi without Iron contains vitamins and nutrients that help support your nutritional needs. It is an optimized formula that is exceptional for those with defective MTHFR genes, a frequent precursor to autoimmune disease.
Liposomal Liver Detox + is an advanced detoxification formula featuring milk thistle phytosome – 30:1 extract standardized to contain 80% silymarin with a combination of artichoke extract, taurine, ALA and patented acetylated glutathione (Emothion) – all playing a significant role in detoxification and antioxidant support. It also contains 100 mcg of selenium per recommended serving size (2 capsules).
The liver is instrumental in optimal thyroid function, being the organ responsible for T4 to active T3 conversion. A healthy liver can help regulate hormones, increase energy levels, improve detoxification, balance mood and slow the aging process.
Sources:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-019-0311-6
https://www.boostthyroid.com/blog/2018/12/7/3-superpowers-of-selenium-for-your-thyroid
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-95390-8_8
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/selenium-deficiency-and-hashimotos/