Hypothyroidism & Selenium: Understanding the Connection

It̵7;s said that you are what you eat. That̵7;s especially true when the body is malfunctioning. Hypothyroidism is directly affected by diet and diet supplements. Trace minerals such as selenium can be a decisive factor in controlling this condition.

Hypothyroidism

• The thyroid is an endocrine gland that produces hormones which regulate metabolism. When the thyroid is ̶0;low̶1; or supplies deficient levels of these hormones, hypothyroidism results.

Selenium

• Selenium is one of 14 trace minerals the body needs on a daily basis to maintain health. What you eat is key to your selenium levels.

Selenium Deficiency

• The second most common factor contributing to hypothyroidism is selenium deficiency Selenium increases thyroid metabolism, and conversely, a lack of it hampers the thyroid, exacerbating symptoms.

Foods

• Shellfish and Brazil nuts are heavy in this trace selenium. Organ meats such as kidney and liver, and mushrooms also rank high. Cod, snapper, tuna, salmon, and halibut carry sufficient doses of this mineral.

Recommended Dosage

• Too much of a good thing is not always a good thing. The recommended daily dosage is 50 micrograms, according to Progressive Health.com.