Essential trace minerals for the thyroid 🌟

Your thyroid gland regulates your metabolism, mental function, mood, and more, but it can’t do its job without some essential nutrients.

🔸Iodine

Iodine is a building block for thyroid hormones. Both too much and too little of this mineral can harm the thyroid, so do NOT supplement without professional guidance. Top food sources include seaweed, seafood, and iodized salt.

🔸Magnesium

Magnesium is needed for the thyroid gland’s utilization of iodine and for the conversion of T4 to T3. Top food sources include nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables.

🔸Selenium

Selenium acts as a cofactor for enzymes that convert T4 to the more active T3. Top food sources include Brazil nuts, organ meats, and seafood.

🔸 Zinc

Low zinc levels have been associated with both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions. Top food sources include pumpkin seeds, oysters, and meat.

Whether or not you have thyroid concerns, eating nutrient-dense foods can help to optimize your thyroid function.

References

Hu Y, Feng W, Chen H, et al. Effect of selenium on thyroid autoimmunity and regulatory T cells in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis: A prospective randomized-controlled trial. Clin Transl Sci. 2021;14(4):1390-1402. [link]

Zhou Q, Xue S, Zhang L, Chen G. Trace elements and the thyroid. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022;13:904889. Published 2022 Oct 24. [link]