How To Choose Thyroid Supplements

If you're researching thyroid supplements, you most likely suspect, or have received a diagnosis of, hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid produces too few hormones to maintain proper metabolism. It is more common in older women than in men and may initially cause few symptoms. Over time however, hypothyroidism can cause symptoms such as intolerance of cold, elevated cholesterol, weight gain, stiffness, constipation, depression, and dry skin and nails. While there is no cure for hypothyroidism, it can be successfully managed with thyroid supplements. Follow these five steps to start your own treatment course.
 

1. Determine if you really need a thyroid supplement. You may suspect hypothyroidism if you are experiencing unexplained fatigue or any of the above symptoms. Your doctor can perform a thyroid function test to determine if you have hypothyroidism. Thyroid disorders can be tricky to diagnose, so if you are dissatisfied with the results, seek a second opinion or consider visiting a thyroidologist, a doctor who specializes in thyroid care.

2. Consider your mainstream treatment options. Most doctors recommend synthetic thyroid hormone supplements. These are only available by prescription and are taken either orally or by injection.  Possible side effects of thyroid hormone supplements include appetite changes, irregular menstruation, nausea, vomiting, and headache. In many cases, these symptoms can be alleviated by adjusting dosage of your medication.
3. Consider natural thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism used to be treated with hormones originating from pigs or cows. Some people do better on natural thyroid hormones since they tend to be absorbed more easily than synthetic hormones. Natural thyroid hormones can cause the same side effects as synthetic thyroid hormones and studies have not shown one to be more effective than the other.
4. Determine the correct way to take your medication. It's important to take your thyroid hormone supplements at the correct time, usually once a day. Do not double up on doses if you forget one, just return to your normal dosing schedule. Check with your pharmacist or read the package label to see if your medication requires refrigeration. Try to take your medication on an empty stomach to enhance absorption and be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. If you experience side effects, contact your doctor. She may wish to adjust your dosage. Although it is rare, high dosages of thyroid supplements can trigger the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, a condition where there is too much thyroid hormone in the body. These symptoms include fast heartbeat, trouble sleeping, muscle weakness and anxiety.
5. Choose over-the-counter supplements to enhance your treatment. You may choose to treat your hypothyroidism with over-the-counter supplements in addition to the hormone supplements your doctor prescribed. These supplements do not contain hormones, so they cannot replace your prescription medication. Taking a good multivitamin supplement each day will help your thyroid function at its optimal level. Since some supplements, such as calcium and iron, can interfere with your thyroid medication, it's important to seek the guidance of your doctor when considering additional supplements. Instead of supplements, you could also try optimizing your diet to include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and fish.