Zinc and Thyroid Health
Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, including thyroid hormone metabolism. It is thought to play a role in the synthesis, conversion, and receptor binding of thyroid-hormones.
Link to Thyroid Disease
- Research notes a possible link between zinc deficiency and graves-disease — people with Graves’ disease may have lower zinc levels.
- A systematic review suggests zinc supplementation, alone or combined with other supplements, may improve outcomes in hypothyroidism. However, large-scale randomised trials are lacking.
- Zinc is involved in T3 and T4 metabolism and receptor activation.
Dietary Sources
- Shellfish (especially oysters)
- Beef and chicken
- Legumes (beans, chickpeas)
- Pumpkin seeds
- Mushrooms
- Nuts
Supplementation
If supplementing, stay within recommended intakes. Zinc supplements do not appear to interfere with levothyroxine absorption, but should still be taken with spacing as a general precaution.