Vitamin D
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Role: Supports immune function; often low in Hashimoto’s.
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Direction: Check blood levels first. Supplement if low; dose depends on deficiency (commonly 1,000–5,000 IU/day under medical supervision).
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Tip: Take with fat-containing meals for better absorption.
2. Selenium
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Role: Helps convert T4 → T3; may reduce thyroid antibodies.
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Direction: Only supplement if deficient. Typical supportive dose ~200 mcg/day, but high doses can be toxic.
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Tip: Natural sources include Brazil nuts, eggs, and fish.
3. Zinc
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Role: Supports thyroid hormone production and conversion.
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Direction: 10–25 mg/day if deficient. Take separately from calcium or iron supplements.
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Tip: Foods like meat, shellfish, seeds, and nuts are good sources.
4. Vitamin B12
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Role: Deficiency common in Hashimoto’s; supports energy, nerves, and red blood cells.
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Direction: Supplement if low (methylcobalamin preferred). Dosage depends on blood levels; often 250–1000 mcg/day orally or via injections for deficiency.
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Tip: Fatigue may improve once B12 levels normalize.
5. Magnesium
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Role: Aids thyroid hormone conversion and energy metabolism.
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Direction: 200–400 mg/day if dietary intake is insufficient.
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Tip: Avoid taking magnesium at the same time as thyroid medication; space by a few hours.
Extra Notes
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Iodine: Only supplement if tested deficient; excess can worsen Hashimoto’s.
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Medication interactions: Minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium can reduce thyroid hormone absorption. Take thyroid meds on an empty stomach and separate supplements by a few hours.
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Testing first: Always confirm deficiencies via blood tests before supplementing.