Selenium (Thyroid) — Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which form of selenium is best for thyroid health?
Which form of selenium is best for thyroid health?
Selenomethionine is the most studied and recommended form for thyroid support. It has over 90% absorption and is incorporated into body proteins as a selenium reservoir. Most clinical trials demonstrating TPO antibody reduction used selenomethionine at 200mcg daily. Selenium yeast is also a good option. Sodium selenite (inorganic) is less well-retained and was used in fewer thyroid-specific studies.
Can selenium cure Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Can selenium cure Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Selenium does not cure Hashimoto's but can reduce disease activity. Multiple RCTs show 200mcg daily reduces TPO antibodies by 20-40%, which is a marker of autoimmune attack on the thyroid. Some patients report improved energy and reduced symptoms, but selenium does not eliminate the need for thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) if hypothyroidism is present. It is best viewed as an adjunctive therapy.
Can I get enough selenium from Brazil nuts?
Can I get enough selenium from Brazil nuts?
Brazil nuts are the richest dietary selenium source, but their selenium content is highly variable (ranging from 10mcg to over 400mcg per nut depending on soil conditions). One to two Brazil nuts daily may provide 100-200mcg, but the inconsistency makes precise dosing difficult. For therapeutic use in thyroid conditions, a standardized supplement offering a consistent 200mcg dose is more reliable.
References
- Gärtner R, Gasnier BC, Dietrich JW, Krebs B, Angstwurm MW (2002). Selenium supplementation in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis decreases thyroid peroxidase antibodies concentrations. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. DOI PubMed
- Marcocci C, Kahaly GJ, Krassas GE, Bartalena L, Prummel M, Stahl M, Altea MA, Nardi M, Pitz S, Boboridis K, Sivelli P, von Arx G, Mourits MP, Baldeschi L, Bencivelli W, Wiersinga W (2011). Selenium and the course of mild Graves' orbitopathy. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI PubMed
- Negro R, Greco G, Mangieri T, Pezzarossa A, Dazzi D, Hassan H (2007). The influence of selenium supplementation on postpartum thyroid status in pregnant women with thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. DOI PubMed