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6 Thyroid Supplements, Along with Food and Diet Recommendations

By Rachel Link, RD, MS

July 27, 2021

If you’ve taken more of an interest in your metabolism, energy levels, digestion and appetite, you may also have an interest in your thyroid function. The thyroid, which is considered a “master gland” produces crucial hormones that control nutrient usage, energy and metabolism.

A healthy thyroid dysfunction is a common interest, especially for women. Because a healthy thyroid is essential to our overall health, we need to make sure this metabolism-setter is in tip-top shape.

In addition to dietary and lifestyle approaches, taking thyroid supplements may help to promote its health, which can impact overall body function.

What Does the Thyroid Do?

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that’s located at the base of the neck. The gland produces hormones that regulate every aspect of metabolism, including the use of nutrients and heart rate control.

The two main hormones produced by the thyroid gland are thyroxine (called T4) and triiodothyronine (called T3). These hormones affect every cell in the body. They go through the bloodstream and help cells get energy from foods, controlling metabolism at a cellular level.

Thyroid health can impact energy levels, metabolism, body temperature regulation, digestion and overall outlook. The key to supporting a healthy thyroid is supporting its balance.

The thyroid can be further impacted by poor diet, lack of exercise, high levels of stress and more.

6 Best Thyroid Supplements

1. Thyroid Capsules

Ancient Nutrition’s Thyroid Capsules are specially formulated with food-based nutrients to support overall thyroid health and more.

Our thyroid supplement features three carefully selected herbs: organic ashwagandha root and leaf extract, organic reishi mushroom and organic fermented astragalus root. These ingredients help to promote healthy energy support, promote feelings of emotional well-being, reduce fatigue and support a healthy response to stress.

2. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that’s traditionally used to help the body adapt to stress. The herb is able to generally balance cortisol (known as the stress hormone) and DHEA, which is often referred to as the healthy aging hormone. It has been shown to help boost energy levels.

Ancient Nutrition's Organic Ashwagandha Capsules feature a combination of ashwagandha root and leaf to deliver support for healthy energy and reduced fatigue. It also includes organic black pepper fruit, which is a health-focused spice that generally helps to improve absorption and digestion.

3. Reishi Mushroom

Reishi mushrooms help the body to maintain its equilibrium and balance. Reishi is considered an adaptogen that helps the body to respond, or adapt, to stressors. It’s jam-packed with beneficial compounds, including polysaccharides, beta glucans, glycoproteins and triterpenes. These compounds help to generally build body strength and support overall wellness.

Ancient Nutrition’s Multi Mushroom Daily Immune Defense Tablets provide organic reishi, plus turkey tail, maitake, shiitake, lion’s mane and cordyceps. This combination helps to support the body’s ability to adapt to stress, which may also impact the thyroid.

4. Selenium

The body needs selenium for the production of T3 thyroid hormone. Research suggests that the mineral may support the health and balance of the thyroid, making it a helpful thyroid supplement ingredient.

5. Fish Oil

Essential fatty acids are crucial for supporting healthy thyroid function. The fats found in fish oil are associated with thyroid health benefits.

Ancient Nutrition's Ancient Omegas, Whole Body softgels feature a powerful, omega-based support system of essential fatty acids. They provide organic chia seed oil and wild-caught fish, with no farmed fish.

6. B-Complex Supplement

B vitamins are important for hormone balance and every. There’s research suggesting that thiamine and vitamin B12 are important nutrients for supporting healthy energy levels and maintaining overall healthy nerve cells.

Ancient Nutrition's Vitamin B Complex uses principles of ancient TCM (Traditional Chinese Method) with body-ready B vitamins and superfood ingredients. Formulated with eight B vitamins, it can be used to support healthy energy levels, and support cognitive and neurological health.

Best Foods for a Healthy Thyroid

To support healthy thyroid function, improving your diet should be your starting point. Are you eating nourishing, anti-inflammatory foods? Your meals should include the following foods:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables

• Organic lean proteins, including wild-caught fish

• Sprouted seeds

• Fermented foods, like kefir, kombucha and fermented vegetables

• Bone broth (homemade or in powdered form)

• High-fiber foods, including legumes and seeds

• Anti-inflammatory herbs, including oregano, turmeric and basil

• Coconut oil

Iodine is also an important nutrient for supporting thyroid health and the amounts can vary from person to person and their nutritional needs. Some high-iodine foods include seaweed, eggs, grass-fed milk and yogurt.

For a healthy thyroid, it’s also important to avoid inflammatory foods, including conventional dairy products, sugary foods, packaged and processed foods, and for some people, foods containing gluten.

Beyond dietary changes, getting enough physical activity and reducing stress levels are two other lifestyle factors that can help to support healthy thyroid function and hormone balance.

Additional Considerations

You should always read and follow label directions when using any herbal supplement. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary or lifestyle regimen, especially before using or combining several supplements or taking them along with prescribed medications.