Thyroid Diet: How To Eat with a Thyroid Disorder Is there a thyroid diet? All Rights Reserved. Thyroid or thyroid gland is basically one of the largest endocrine glands present in the neck below the thyroid cartilage (which forms the Adams apple). TSH instructs it to produces two different thyroid hormones – thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). That includes dairy foods, eggs, legumes and seafood. © 2015–2020 Core Spirit. This article provides an unbiased summary, splitting fact from fiction. It would be reaching to say that gluten definitively aggravates an underactive thyroid, but at the same time it could very well play a part. Amounts … Especially if you have Hashimoto’s, you must stay away from gluten. Broccoli and cabbage These two foods are worth avoiding if you have an underactive thyroid gland. As you would expect, many health problems emerge if our thyroid stops working properly. Raw cabbage was very problematic in rats when it made up a whopping 33% of their diet (11). Soy protein, found in tofu, edamame and many other foods, can prevent your body from absorbing the hormone you take to treat your underactive thyroid gland – especially if it’s eaten within one hour of taking your medicine. Alcohol: Alcohol can disrupt the production of thyroid hormones and reduce the body’s ability to utilize these hormones. For this reason it’s best to stick with selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, mushrooms, meat and fish, which are far less potent than supplements. Home » Hypothyroidism » The Best Diet For An Underactive Thyroid: Splitting Fact From Fiction, By Joe Leech, Dietitian (MSc Nutrition & Dietetics). Note this process isn’t mandatory in the US, but more than half of all salt sold there does contain added iodine (5, 6). It may even greatly increase the risk of prostate cancer in men (9). Breakfast: Overnight Chocolate Chia Pudding. If you want a set diet/meal plan to follow – including the shopping list – then please see my 14-Day Meal Plan for Hypothyroidism and Weight Loss. For those hypersensitive to gluten, it is thought their immune system can confuse components of gluten with thyroid tissue. Conventional treatment for an underactive thyroid is with the hormone levothyroxine (LT4 or Synthroid). An underactive thyroid (hypothyroid in a medical context) refers to when the gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. The immune system then mistakenly attacks and damages the thyroid gland, characteristic of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Anecdotal reports suggest caffeine intake should be limited to less than 300 mg per day (2-3 regular coffees) as large amounts can aggravate the thyroid. If you want a set exercise plan to follow, specifically for those with an underactive thyroid and low energy levels as it is, check out my Thyroid Time Machine program which will get you into ship-shape. The only difference is the thyroid must first be treated with proper medication. Hypothyroidism Diet: What To Eat for an Underactive Thyroid Taking a proper diet for underactive thyroid is an important step in the treatment for hypothyroidism, which is the enlargement and malfunctioning of the thyroid gland that secretes hormones to regulate metabolism. As per Dr. Sujeet, the only way to manage thyroid is to take a healthy diet. Note that if you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (strong majority of all hypothyroidism cases) then speak with your doctor before increasing iodine intake. Cruciferous vegetables in reasonable amounts, as long as they are cooked well. Most developed nations are also well above the deficiency level, which is why iodine-related hypothyroidism is so uncommon. Thyroid diet dos and don'ts, according to the experts. In saying that, if you have underlying nutrient deficiencies or food intolerance that remains untreated, LT4 becomes a bandaid that doesn’t treat the root problem. Selenium supplements unless under the guidance of your doctor. Absorption of the T4 hormone is greatly reduced if consumed alongside food, especially soy, high-fibre foods and coffee (2). Summary: As iodine is required for thyroid hormone production, ensure your diet contains foods naturally rich in iodine (but if you have Hashimoto’s then check first with your doctor). It works by replacing the T4 that is not being naturally produced, and is the most effective treatment for this condition. They are iodine-rich and selenium-rich foods. White beans. Most people in the U.S. get enough of this element from their diet, usually through fish and dairy products. For this reason it’s critical to develop eating habits that are supportive of a healthy weight… not unlike regular weight loss advice (25). Iodine is an essential trace element that all living organisms need. Thyroid hormones must be replaced through medication. Iodine is required for the normal functioning of the thyroid, so when the thyroid is under-performing, boosting iodine can help it. Studies show that at the very least 3.7% of American adults have an underactive thyroid, which is likely similar in other developed countries (1). In other words, taking desiccated thyroid comes with more risk for potentially no extra benefit than standard LT4. The good news is, hypothyroidism is manageable and one way to do so is through diet. The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland on the front of your throat. Additionally, those with a low iodine status who supplement selenium may in fact aggravate hypothyroidism. However, there are also good studies that found no improvement (14, 18, 19, 20). Combination treatment is typically used as a backup for those who do not respond favourably or feel unwell with regular LT4 treatment. When this process is thrown off, it can cause hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). In almost all cases hypothyroidism is the result of inadequate T4 production, rather than inadequate T3. It has a butterfly like shape with two wings attached by a middle part (isthmus). Certain legumes and beans Lectins are also found in soybeans, kidney beans, Escumite beans, and french beans. And numerous studies have shown a strong link between so-called gluten sensitivity (as well as celiac disease) and hypothyroidism. Summary: There appears to be a link between gluten intolerance (or celiac disease) and hypothyroidism. Sugary foods: With an already slower metabolism adding sugary foods will lead to greater weight gain. Navy beans, potatoes, eggs, cow’s milk and iodised salt are great food sources of iodine, although levels often depend on iodine content in the soil. Gluten-containing foods often, if at all. A Simple Guide For The Non-Scientist, 14-Day Meal Plan For Hypothyroidism and Weight Loss – Week 2, Hashimoto’s Disease: Your Guide For Living With Hypothyroidism. 50 Best Foods to Eat for an Underactive Thyroid. That means eating more nuts, vegetables, and seafood, and only using supplements if natural foods are not an option. Here’s the best food for thyroid problems. Eating them daily can help boost the health of your thyroid and make living with hypothyroidism manageable and easier to live with. It’s not easy, but it’s doable. Rates are on the rise, as are those selling thyroid supplements and giving inaccurate dietary advice. Gluten-containing foods do not offer any unique nutrients that you can’t get from other foods sources anyway. Now that we understand the role of iodine and selenium in addressing hypothyroidism, let’s outline foods that you should eat if you have hypothyroidism. To offer some perspective: up to 95% of the thyroid hypothyroidism in the US is caused not by an iodine deficiency, but occurs as the result of an autoimmune disease so avoiding cruciferous vegetables will do little to fix your underactive thyroid. It can be helpful, but in particular circumstances an increase in iodine can actually irritate the thyroid. in Lymphatic & Endocrine system. 13 Signs of An Underactive Thyroid: Do You Know What To Look For? Additionally, it is one of the few available that is 100% vegetarian. What’s more, the addition of nuts to the diet does not increase body weight . While it’s fair to say the “gluten-free movement” has gotten out of hand, those with genuine gluten issues are at an increased risk for many health conditions (such as fibromyalgia) if they continue to consume it. Left untreated, an underactive thyroid will lead to a host of health problems including weight gain, hair loss, fatigue, poor memory and feeling unusually cold. So what is one to eat on an underactive thyroid diet? Additionally, cooking cruciferous vegetables and other foods containing goitrogens are thought to greatly reduce its potential impact. If you’re certain that a consistently healthy diet and regular physical activity have not helped your situation, you may want to consider trialling the Autoimmune Protocol diet (AIP). It certainly doesn’t have to be strenuous to be effective. Cabbage, broccoli and other related vegetables are safe if cooked well (and you don’t have goiter), while gluten is best limited or cut out completely- depending on your tolerance. They are low in calories and very filling, which may help prevent weight gain. The main reason is, it can initiate thyroid antibody production. Coffee: You may have to cut back on your morning coffee. Underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is a condition that commonly affects women in their 40s and 50s. This is why diet is so important for proper management of hypothyroidism. Supplements like desiccated thyroid are also not tightly regulated for dose or quality. Anecdotally, many desiccated thyroid users swear by it. Conventional diagnosis relies on TSH and T4 blood tests, however there’s good reason to believe those tests alone are inadequate. What is an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)? This type of food can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones. It is not a temporary change but a life time change. Fatty food: Fatty foods may interrupt the absorption of thyroid medications. Help you discover how to apply it to your current health condition. Production of hormones reduces, which can lead to weight gain, constipation, changes in skin – becoming too dry – fatigue, and even depression. Thyroid conditions aren't just about underactive or over-active thyroids - this year, the focus is on thyroid cancer, autoimmunity, infertility, anxiety and depression, and iodine deficiency. If you’ve been doing all the right things and still feel your situation is not improving,  you may want to consider trialing the Autoimmune Protocol diet (AIP). Summary: If you don’t have a goiter or low iodine levels, cruciferous vegetables are safe when cooked well and eaten in regular amounts. A cup of cooked white beans serves up 8mg of iron —a mineral that many people, especially premenopausal women, have trouble getting enough of . Hypothyroidism can occur due to stress, if the thyroid is removed through surgery, or simply if it stops functioning normally. There is a theory that low selenium levels contribute to hypothyroidism through different mechanisms related to iodine. Underactive Thyroid Diet Don’ts. Women who fall into this category should definitely be supplementing with iodine, as per the World Health Organisation’s recommendations. Most patients report improvement with a thyroid supplement too, but if you consistently eat a healthy and wholesome diet they are unnecessary. Hypothyroidism Diet Foods To Eat 1. However if you experienced as a lack of sleep increases and grains like corn wheat and somewhat more active lifestyle rather then underactive thyroid diet what to eat employing one active ingredients inside the quantity . For many it can treat symptoms effectively without the bad side effects of LT4. Iodine supplements unless under the guidance of your doctor (especially if you are pregnant/breastfeeding). What to eat (and not to eat) to improve your thyroid condition: 1. A small study in 10 subjects showed that 150 g (5 oz)  per day of cooked brussels sprouts for four weeks straight had no negative effects on thyroid function (13). Walnuts and cottonseed meal can also affect your medication. However, cooking legumes and beans well will … From what current research can tell us, the best diet for an underactive thyroid is one that contains whole foods, is high in protein, and naturally rich in iodine and selenium. Everything You Need To Know About Eggs and Nutrition Unscrambled, 55 Low Calorie Meals – Easy And Delicious Recipes for Weight Loss. Although you may not think about it much, it plays a major role in producing hormones and regulating our metabolism. Nevertheless, including iodine-rich foods in your diet is a good idea to be safe. Weigh up the social aspect vs the health aspect and go from there. Too much fiber: Fiber is good to keep us regular, but not in the case of those with hypothyroidism. However, a lack of iodine is rarely the cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries where it is abundant in the food supply (3). Before we outline foods for hypothyroidism, let’s discuss the importance of iodine and selenium. These particular types of vegetables are called Cruciferous vegetables, and the group contains other foods such as cauliflower and Kale. However, the favourable effects of a gluten-free diet are inconsistent at best, so recommendations depend largely on an individual’s medical history and dietary preferences. But a 2013 Cochrane review of the research concluded evidence is lacking to definitively support or refute the use of selenium supplements (8). All the ingredients are healthy and are great even for food intolerants. eat some beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other protein; choose unsaturated oils and spreads, and eat them in small amounts; drink plenty of fluids (at least 6 to 8 glasses a day) It isn't always easy to maintain a varied and healthy diet, and for this reason some people may wish to take additional vitamins and supplements. Foods to Eat for an Underactive Thyroid Diet Fish: Fish is a good source of selenium which helps decrease inflammation and is most concentrated in the thyroid. Thyroid Diet: How To Eat with a Thyroid Disorder. Joe Leech, Dietitian (MSc Nutrition & Dietetics), 14-Day Meal Plan for Hypothyroidism and Weight Loss, TSH and So-Called “Normal” TSH Levels: A Non-Sciency Guide, 14-Day Meal Plan For Hypothyroidism And Weight Loss, How To Lose Weight With An Underactive Thyroid: Your 6-Step Guide, What is T4 and T3? As the name implies, this should be made ahead of time in large batches. In theory then, eating these vegetables would aggravate an underactive thyroid and should be largely avoided. A diet high in protein, which helps to curb appetite and keep you feeling full. Assuming you don’t eat phenomenal amounts of raw cruciferous vegetables, you are most likely safe. Without these hormones, many metabolic processes break down. Gluten is a protein found in grain and wheat that is not well-digested by around 6% of people. Some fish such as haddock, clams, salmon, shrimp, oysters and sardines are high in iodine, which is essential to make thyroid hormone. Gluten: Although commonly avoided by those with Celiac disease, gluten should also be avoided if you have hypothyroidism. These items are: Soy: Soy can interfere with hormones, especially in women. Going by this theory, an individual with Hashimoto’s will not improve unless gluten is removed from the diet. One step at a time. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease) is by far the most common form of hypothyroidism in the Western world. Summary: There is no one food or diet that can correct an underactive thyroid on its own. If you have concerns about your thyroid, but haven’t gotten it checked out yet, this is a list of the symptoms you may be experiencing: These symptoms, although part of hypothyroidism, are also quite common among other illnesses. Even though they are FDA regulated, supplements aren’t subject to the same strict safety and effectiveness requirements that drugs are. You can find a good range of iodine supplements on Amazon (disclosure: this is an affiliate link), but please consult with your doctor before you start taking them. Frequent intake will only aggravate issues if your iodine intake is poor or you have a goiter. Written by Lisa Marie Basile ... Because so many hypothyroid patients experience weight gain, you’ll want to eat a diet tailored to your specific needs. The latest Core Spirit news, articles and products, sent straight to your inbox. Food on its own cannot cure or independently treat a diagnosed case of hypothyroidism. Summary: The thyroid gland is fundamental to many metabolic processes. It is used to convert thyroxine to its active form and helps decrease thyroid antibodies. If you're feeling sluggish, the first place you probably go is your coffee … However, anecdotal reports indicate that desiccated thyroid is much better tolerated and can still be an effective form of hormone replacement therapy for some. Iodine requirements increase by more than 60% because the developing fetus or infant requires iodine too. *Some types of foods with underactive thyroid diet what to eat their formative years of age. Our thyroid gland requires iodine to produce thyroid hormones. There are certain types of food that are best for hypothyroidism. Substantial drops in TPO levels are possible just from removing gluten. So the benefits remain unclear, but the known side-effects of selenium supplementation include digestive issues, hair loss, fatigue, and irritability. The World Health Organization (WHO) deems a population iodine deficient if urine concentration levels are less than 100 microgram/L. Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that support a healthy metabolism. 7 Weight Loss Tips That DON’T Work If You Have Hypothyroidism, How To Nurture Your Gut Microbiome On The Low FODMAP Diet, Say ‘Aloe’ to Aloe Vera – Proven Uses and Benefits, Green Tea To Slim Down: How Your Favorite Green Brew Can Help Your Weight Loss, Are Eggs Good or Bad? Iodine is required for the normal functioning of the thyroid, so when the thyroid is under-performing, boosting iodine can help it. Iodine-rich foods may aid in symptoms associated with hypothyroidism and assist your metabolism. Insulin what to eat for underactive thyroid diet that is most often lacking in commercial canine diets. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree in exercise science, followed by a Master's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics in 2011. Hormone replacement therapy with prescription medication, such as LT4, is necessary to restore thyroid function. Eating foods to help hypothyroidism can benefit your overall good health as well. Joe Leech is a university-qualified dietitian from Australia. So desiccated thyroid has its place as an alternate treatment, but it’s certainly not better than conventional. If you have an underactive thyroid gland, you should: Skip the soy. To ensure rates remain low, more than 100 countries have adopted mandatory iodization of all food-grade salt or bread. Our thyroid is often overlooked unless a doctor raises concerns about it. Americans had a median level of 160 microgram/L in 2003-2004 (4), while Australians were at 124 microgram/L in 2011-2012. Unless you are pregnant or breastfeeding, iodine supplements probably won’t be beneficial. There are certain types of food that are best for hypothyroidism. The diet for hypothyroidism is a lifestyle change that needs to be done step by step. The claim: You should make sure you get enough iodine in your diet… You should always get tested for celiac disease, but this requires you take a. Desiccated thyroid supplements unless synthroid is giving you unpleasant side-effects. Caffeine can limit the absorption of thyroid hormone replacement medications. Well, we are about to tell you, but first it’s important to understand just how important the thyroid truly is. If you have thyroid problems, the foods you eat can affect how your feel. Written by Jodi Godfrey, MS, RD. A thyroid diet for weight loss should include coconut oil. Cruciferous vegetables in reasonable amounts, as long as they are cooked well. Hypothyroidism Diet Plan: Foods to Eat and Avoid with an Underactive Thyroid . Following a hyperthyroidism diet can help treat an underactive thyroid and manage symptoms to get your body back on track. Summary This brief diet plan below summarises what has been covered for treating an underactive thyroid: Do eat: Foods rich in iodine such as iodised salt, seafood, potatoes, eggs and navy beans. But this is only the case if you are iodine deficient or you consume ridiculously large quantities. Many studies have found that a gluten-free diet reduces the number of antithyroid antibodies, which is favourable for treatment and in preventing new issues (15, 16, 17). That’s why LT4 is absolutely essential for any health care system. Your thyroid needs iodine to work well. Vegetables from the cruciferae family are known goitrogens. Cucumber, carrots, ginger, coriander, lemon, and … However, this is one for discussion with your doctor. That means eating plenty of whole foods that you enjoy, increasing protein intake, cutting down on junk food products, and being more active where possible. Processed foods: Hypothyroidism can result in higher blood pressure, so the added salts from processed foods will only worsen this. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables can benefit an overactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism can reduce your metabolism, making weight management and weight loss difficult without a healthy dietary lifestyle. These are necessary to send instructions to every single cell in your body. The honest truth is we don’t know. The government's Daily Guidelines for Americans currently recommends that adults up to age 50 should take in 25 to 38 grams of fiber a day. Is there a particular thyroid diet for weight loss? Summary: Be sure to include selenium-rich foods in your diet, but selenium supplements are unproven to help and linked with several health issues. One lady also managed to put herself into a coma by eating 1-1.5 kgs of raw bok choy daily (12). Salt. It occurs when your thyroid gland doesn't make enough of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) or triiodothyronin (T3), which slows down your body's metabolism, leading to symptoms such as tiredness and putting on weight. If you decide to take vitamins and supplements you should avoid taking them in … Study the research objectively (without bias). An underactive thyroid can make it extremely difficult to lose weight, especially if your diet is poor. I’d personally only have gluten-foods as a treat. If you don’t have symptoms to gluten and don’t feel any different on a gluten-free diet, then it’s likely not a problem. For that reason, a deficiency in iodine can lead to an underactive thyroid. They are iodine-rich and selenium-rich foods. In fact, around 16% of those with celiac disease have antibodies that attack the thyroid (14). Foods like crabs, oysters, clams, organ meats, cashews, sunflower seeds, wheat bran cereals, wholegrain goods, … Complete management of an underactive thyroid includes hormone replacement therapy (Synthroid or desiccated thyroid), regular exercise (cardio and strength), adequate sleep and reducing stress. Diet Plan for Underactive Thyroid Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid affects a significant number of people, and is more common in females than males and in older people. Chia seeds are a wonderful source of protein, fibre and magnesium. Supplemental iodine is not recommended for the general public, and has actually been shown to cause further thyroid dysfunction in some instances (7). If you’ve already been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, then you are now aware of the best foods for your condition. Correct diet for your thyroid can offer many benefits like reducing the risk of hypothyroidism, which can lead to numerous health complications. You will need to do some trial and error with your doctor to find out what is best for you. Therefore, if you have an underactive thyroid it’s important to get tested for celiac disease first thing. Day #2 Tuesday. Any food when you take LT4 medication as this can inhibit absorption. Selenium is also highly beneficial for your thyroid as it aids in the production of hormones making your thyroid not have to work as hard. Summary: There is no particular thyroid diet for weight loss, although I have created a meal plan as a guide. The big exception to this rule is if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. But what foods should you be consuming for your thyroid? Trials using a mix of T4 + T3 have found it is, at best, equally as effective as LT4 treatment (21, 22, 23). Sea vegetables, potatoes, eggs, yogurt, and beans These foods are very popular with vegetarians since they do not contain meat or seafood yet are still high in the ever-so-important iodine. All content is written by qualified dietitians and is completely independent, with no sponsors or affiliations to industry. To help you get started I’ve created a 6-step guide on how to lose weight with an underactive thyroid, which you can see here. It is not a temporary change but a life time change. “To eat a healthy diet in general is going to support a healthy thyroid.” Instead of concentrating on a few specific foods, your diet should mostly consist of whole grains, low-fat dairy, fruits and vegetables and lean protein, she added. To be fair, study participants tend to report better tolerance and preference of desiccated thyroid over LT4 (24). Both iron and copper are really so essential for thyroid perform, therefore thyroid sufferers should remember to ensure they are getting enough within their diet plans. The risk only outweighs the benefit if they are consumed in ridiculously large quantities and/or raw. This 3-minute TED-Ed animation is great if you want a bit more detail. Aside from the huge flaws in assuming natural is always better than artificial, the problem is that desiccated thyroid contains a mix of T4 + T3 hormones. And if you have a family history of autoimmune disease, or you want to play it extra safe, then eliminate gluten from your diet. Speak to your doctor and get your thyroid checked to know for sure. Foods to Eat. In fact, a study on “thyroid support” supplements found that half of brands contain a low range of T4, while 1 in 10 contained no T4 at all. Hypothyroidism meal plan: 7 days Salad with grilled shrimp is a recommended lunch on the hypothyroidism meal plan. Our thyroid plays a huge role in metabolism. Just as our body requires nutrients for it to function properly, so does the thyroid. Four key points on how your food choices can impact your thyroid status and your overall health, according to thyroid experts. It is involved in the pr… Once your hormone levels have been corrected, you can lose weight just like anybody else. Cruciferous vegetables: Generally food items like broccoli and cabbage are recommended for healthy eating, but not if you have hypothyroidism. A diet high in protein, which helps to curb appetite and keep you feeling full. Seafood is also iodine-rich as marine animals can concentrate iodine from seawater. On the other hand, there are foods you should avoid as they can worsen symptoms and the condition itself. Post a comment. Coconut Oil. If you still want to try one however (under the supervision of your doctor), see this Thyroid Support Supplement (disclosure: this is an affiliate link). Before proceeding to the thyroid diet, it is important to know and understand the thyroid problem. Alternatively, you can download the meal plan from here and then save it to your phone or print it out: This brief diet plan below summarises what has been covered for treating an underactive thyroid: If you want to kick-start your thyroid health, improve energy levels and lose weight, exercise should be part of your routine. People with hypothyroidism should eat a diet based around vegetables, fruits, and lean meats. Just keep in mind that what you eat is only one piece of the thyroid puzzle. There seems to be a strong link between Hashimoto’s and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Alongside insulin and cortisol, thyroid hormones are a driving factor behind metabolic rate and weight management. The Best Diet For An Underactive Thyroid: Splitting Fact From Fiction. They include brussels sprouts, broccoli, bok choy, cauliflower, cabbage, kale and more. When diagnosed with anunderactive thyroid, there are alternative options to consider to improve your function and alleviate the side effects of a reduced thyroid. Before we outline foods for hypothyroidism, let’s discuss the importance of iodine and selenium. Here is a list of the best and worst foods for thyroid problems. Rather, ensure you cook them well and that your iodine intake is adequate. Goitrogens are naturally occurring substances that can potentially inhibit thyroid production (10). It’s fair to say the risks outweigh the benefits at this stage. Avoid gluten. by Christopher Pavlinec, MD — Last updated: 2017-08-15 . What Foods To Eat For Hypothyroidism? Supplemental selenium is not warranted and can have side effects, Cruciferous vegetables as part of an underactive thyroid diet, Limit or eliminate gluten for a hypothyroid diet. Many of the foods to avoid with hypothyroidism are common foods that should generally be avoided or limited as they do not contribute to good health. Summary: Studies show desiccated thyroid supplements have no benefit over conventional LT4 treatment, and pose more risks. High in protein, fibre and healthy fats, Brazil nuts are a fantastic source of selenium (for thyroid health). A diet rich in antioxidants is a must for hypothyroidism. One of the highest dietary sources of selenium. It contains both selenium and iodine for thyroid health, as well as vitamin B12 for improved energy levels. It’s important to note that if you use LT4, take it before or well outside of meal times. Some alternative health advocates recommend desiccated thyroid (ground up pork thyroid) instead of the conventional LT4 drug because it’s “natural”. 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