6 Common Nutrient Deficiencies in Hashimoto’s
Healthy nutrient absorption is needed to live a happy, healthy life, but often chronic health conditions can arise due to the way our body absorbs those nutrients. This might mean that no matter how many wholefoods you’re stacking up on your plate, or supplements you’re throwing back before breakfast, if there’s an underlying condition impacting nutrient absorption, you’re not likely to see any benefits.
Because of the high nutritional requirement of the thyroid, conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis can arise as a result of nutritional deficiencies. This autoimmune condition is best represented by a slow, sluggish thyroid. There are more obvious signs and symptoms, such as weight gain, depleted energy and a swollen thyroid, which are caused by the impacts of Hashimoto’s on the body. Then there are a number of ways the condition can lead to nutrient deficiencies, including imbalances in hormone output and a multitude of other signs throughout the body. To prevent these from developing into further health complications, it is first best to identify some of the most common nutrient deficiencies that you may encounter if living with Hashimoto’s.
#1 Selenium
Selenium is an essential mineral that we need to absorb through our diet. We only need trace amounts, which is why it’s not as well known as nutrients such as iron or magnesium, but it’s vital for homeostasis (balance in health). Selenium plays a role in metabolism, digestive function and is used throughout the body. This mineral also has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage, including those of the thyroid. Typically, the thyroid gland has the highest concentration of selenium in the body, because selenium is vital for the enzymes responsible for converting thyroid hormone. With a deficiency, it often means the thyroid gland can’t function as adequately as it should. You can discover more about the relationship between selenium and the thyroid in an earlier blog post, here.
#2 Iodine
Iodine is another crucial mineral for thyroid health that has to be obtained through dietary sources. One of the key functions of the thyroid gland is to uptake iodine from the bloodstream in response to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). When inside the thyroid gland, iodine combines with the amino acid tyrosine to produce the key thyroid hormones used throughout the body. Iodine deficiencies can lead to common thyroid concerns such as nodule or goitre formation and/or hypothyroidism - common symptoms of Hashimoto’s. Iodine and the thyroid have an incredibly complex relationship, which you can learn more about in this article.
#3 Zinc
For growth, DNA synthesis and immune function, zinc is fundamental for the human body. It is also responsible for healthy skin and nails and protein synthesis. When it concerns Hashimoto’s, zinc deficiencies play a crucial role - this mineral is needed for the conversion of T4 to T3, just like selenium, as well as the production of TSH. In addition to this hormonal response, zinc can also help to tighten intestinal junctions for those suffering from intestinal permeability, otherwise known as leaky gut. You can discover more about this relationship in this blog post on the gluten, leaky gut and thyroid connection.
#4 Iron
Iron deficiency is one of the most frequently observed deficiencies, partially due to iron-deficiency anemia and a rise in the popularity of plant-based diets. But iron deficiencies can occur for more reasons than just a meat-free diet. Iron is particularly important in Hashimoto's as it is needed in the process of bringing iodine into the thyroid gland for hormone synthesis. Iron is involved in widespread functions throughout the body, including oxygen transport. Without adequate iron and oxygen supply, symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty breathing begin to occur, which are common symptoms of hypothyroid conditions.
#5 Vitamin D
We predominantly get our Vitamin D from basking in the sunshine, but with more of us spending our days inside with office jobs and global lockdowns, we’re becoming increasingly deficient in this vital micronutrient as a population. The main tasks of Vitamin D are regulating bone metabolism and calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. It is also involved in immune health as it helps modulate the expression of immune cells, maintain a balanced immune response and decrease the development of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Deficiencies in this vitamin (which is actually classed as a hormone) have been linked with increased risk of autoimmune diseases and supplementation has been shown to significantly reduce auto-antibodies responsible for Hashimoto's disease. So for those living with hypothyroidism and particularly Hashimoto’s, Vitamin D synthesis may not be as it should. Absorption via the skin and intestines is vital, but this may be impaired by poor digestive function. Then, Vitamin D may not be activated properly due to genetics or deficiencies in other nutrients needed for Vitamin D receptor activation, such as Vitamin A. Many of the symptoms of low Vitamin D levels are similar to that of Hashimoto’s, including fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, mood swings, poor memory and depression.
#6 Magnesium
Magnesium is a commonly-misunderstood mineral, compared to other essential counterparts, yet the mineral’s role in Hashimoto’s disease is still one that stumps many. Magnesium is responsible for more than 300 biochemical reactions in the body: it supports the immune system, maintains normal nerve and muscle function, regulates the heartbeat, strengthens bones, keeps blood glucose levels steady and plays a role in the production of energy. Magnesium is also needed for iodine utilisation by the thyroid gland, which we know to be vital for homeostasis.
However, there’s no reason to stress or worry about any suspected deficiencies. These nutrients, once their levels are detected, are easily replenished through dietary, lifestyle and supplementation recommendations from a specialised and experienced practitioner.
If you have Hashimoto’s disease or suspect you may have one or more of these deficiencies, I offer free 15-minute consultations where we can discuss the wide range of treatment options that will suit your individual needs best. Together, we can bring you to your happiest, most vibrant version of self.
Melissa Briggs is an experienced Brisbane based Naturopath with a particular interest in women’s health and thyroid disorders. Need help with your health? Get in touch here.