Natural Thyroid Supplements for Hashimoto’s Disease and Hypothyroidism

Dessicated Thyroid Extract

Many patients report good results using over the counter (OTC) dessicated thyroid brands. If your doctor refuses to give you a prescription for Armour thyroid or similar brands which you can get from the pharmacy you can try a trial of OTC dessicated thyroid and see if you respond better than to T4-only medication. All dessicated thyroid brands contain a mixture of  T4 and T3 thyroid hormones in the proportions usually present in pig thyroids which is approximately 80% T4 and 20% T3.

Thiroyd Brand Natural Dessicated Thyroid Extract by Greater Pharma Manufacturing Co. Ltd, 60mg Tablets, 120 Pack. Armour Equivalent, no prescription needed. Contains pork thyroid extract fillers. 60 mg is an equivalent of 1 grain.

Thyroid-S Natural Dessicated Thyroid Extract by Sriprasit Pharma Co. Ltd, 60mg (1 grain) Tablets, 120 Pack, Armour Equivalent, no prescription needed. Contains pork thyroid extract fillers. Typical daily dose can range from 30 to 150 mg depending on the severity of hypothyroidism.

Natural Adrenal Support for Low Cortisol and Adrenal Fatigue

Non-Addison’s hypoadrenia, adrenal insufficiency or adrenal fatigue is a deficiency in the function of adrenal glands. When adrenals become depleted they cannot keep up with the body’s demand of sufficient cortisol production and other hormones due to excess physical, emotional, environmental and psychological stress. Adrenal fatigue has a tendency to accompany autoimmune and thyroid diseases and make these health conditions worse.

Raw Adrenal Glandular by Natural Sources with Synergistic Complex in easy to digest capsules. These raw tissue concentrates from bovine sources are specially processed (freeze-dried) at or below -5° C to preserve natural occurring compounds. The grandular are made from toxin-free lyophilized glands from animals grazed on range land in New Zealand and are free of pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics or chemical additives. This supplement is suitable for mild adrenal fatigue cases.

Ingredients:Vitamin A 3000IU, Vitamin C 165 mg, Thiamine 8 mg, Riboflavin 6.5 mg, Niacinamide 50 mg, Vitamin B-6 16.5 mg, Panthothenic Acid 8 mg, Zinc 8 mg, Adrenal Tissue 150 mg, Spleen Tissue 150 mg. The product does not contain sugar, starch, preservatives, artificial colors or flavorings, corn, wheat, yeast, soy or milk derivatives, toxin, pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics or chemical additives.

Isocort by Bezwecken, 240 pellets is a natural adrenal support for those who have low cortisol levels, adrenal fatigue or adrenal insufficiency. Proprietary Blend: Fermented Plant Derived Cortisol, Echinacea Purpurea (6.0 mg/pellet). Other Ingredients: Lactose, Magnesium Stearate, Starch Arrowroot, Maltodextrin, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Silicate, Lactase. This supplement contains cortisol and is suitable for severe cases of adrenal fatigue.

However people with autoimmune conditions and Hashimoto’s disease should evaluate their immune system first. Isocort contains Echinacea which is natural compound that is known to modulate immune system. If you are TH1 dominant as most Hashimoto’s it can shift the immune system even more in this direction and worsen your condition. If you are TH2 dominant Echinacea can have a balancing effect on your immune system. You can read more about using natural compounds for modulations and re-balancing of the immune system here

Eliminate Adverse Effects Of Gluten

Even if you strictly avoid gluten, it’s nearly impossible to remove gluten from your diet completely because it is literally everywhere!

Gluten is a resistant to digestion protein that cannot be digested by humans. When gluten protein reaches the small intestine it can create intestinal damage and many other non-digestive symptoms in people with celiac, gluten intolerance, wheat allergy, autoimmune disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, hypothyroidism and even in some otherwise healthy individuals.

However, there is a new natural compound which has the ability to break down the outer protein layer of gluten and make it digestible protecting your intestinal lining even if you were exposed to gluten. Isn’t it amazing that this became possible and now is available to you?

Gluten Guardian is the most potent gluten-digesting enzyme that contains DPP-IV and allows to digest gluten and casein.  For people who react to gluten it can become the life-saver when it comes to protecting yourself from gluten exposure and gluten-induced intestinal damage. Best of all it will allow you to enjoy your food without a fear of bloating, indigestion, weight gain and another autoimmune flare-up.

Natural Support for Hight Cortisol

When you are stressed your adrenal glands produce more cortisol to keep up with your body’s demands and energy expenditure. While cortisol secretion is a normal response to stress, the prolonged periods of stress can result in negative effects of high cortisol production. Chronically elevated cortisol levels can have a catabolic effect and lead to the breakdown of the muscle tissues, bone loss, affect cardiovascular function, increase glucose levels, weight gain (especially in the mid-section and belly fat), suppress immune system and disrupt metabolic pathways.

Some autoimmune conditions require prednisone or cortisone therapy in order to reduce inflammation. These medications raise cortisol levels and can have all side effects associated with high cortisol when overused or used for prolonged periods of time. Adaptogens are natural herbal support that can reduce negative side effects of stress and high cortisol.

Relora-Plex by Douglas Labs, 60 capsules, 250 mg of a proprietary blend of plant extracts from Magnolia officinalis and Phellodendron amurense bark. These herbal extracts are specifically designed to support normal mental function during periods of stress and anxiety. Each capsule also contains a complex of B vitamins and 100 mcg of folic acid.

Relora has been in use in traditional Chineese medicine for several hundred years to control irritability, emotional ups and downs, restlessness, tense muscles, fatigue, concentration difficulties, improve sleep and raise DHEA levels.

 Ashwagandhaby Pure Encapsulations, 60 capsules, 500 mg. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that is known as Indian Ginseng and reduces negative effects of stress and high cortisol such as decreases anxiety, improves brain function, acts as an antioxidant and anti-depressant.

Eleuthero extract by Herb Pharm is a liquid formula, 1 Oz of Eleutherococcus senticosus or Siberian Ginseng which is a herb that acts as an adaptogen and is used to increase stamina, relieve physical and mental stress, improve mental alertness, normalize body function and improve overall health. This product is formulated according to the original Russian Pharmacopoeia formula for Eleuthero Extract and provides double strength.

Korean Ginseng MAX-V by Douglas Labs, 60 Vegi Caps, 200 mg or Panax ginseng is an adaptogen that has been shown to enhance physical performance, stamina and energy production by shifting of metabolism into a fat-burning state due to an increased supply of oxygen to the muscles.

Rhodiola Rosea by Pure Encapsulations, 90 Vegi Caps, 100 mg is an adaptogen that comes from traditional Eastern European and Asian medicine and has been shown to enhance immune and brain functions. It also acts as a natural anti-depressant and has protective properties for  the heart and against cancer. Rhodiola also prevents high surges of adrenaline caused by severe and/or chronic stress.

Holy basil is also known as Tulsi in India. This is an aromatic herb and adaptogen that reduces cortisol production caused by from stress, supports blood sugar, has properties similar to antihistamine pharmaceuticals for allergic reactions, improves immune function and integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosal barrier in the intestine and enhances athletic performance.

Pantethine by Douglas Labs, 50 Tablets, 500 mg. Pantethine is a more stable form of pantethenic acid which is vitamin B5. It can be usually obtained through a healthy diet and is required for adrenal hormone production. However, it will not over-stimulate cortisol production during periods of stress but provide balancing and calming effect. Pantethine enhances adrenal functions and modulation of the inflammatory response, however it should be used together with adaptogens to provide a synergistical effect.

Phosphatidylserine by Natural Factors, 60 Softgels, 100mg. Phosphatidylserine is an anti-oxidant and a natural component of the brain. It has ability to lower cortisol, enhance brain cells activity and memory, decrease anxiety and depression, improve mood, and support metabolism. Supplementation is vital for optimizing adrenal function so that high cortisol levels cannot negatively affect vital body’s systems and the thyroid.

Vitamins

Calcium, magnesium and B vitamins are well-known supplements that help regulate body’s stress response if a sufficient dose is taken. However, most brands provide only a fraction of what is required to control high cortisol. For optimal stress response and high cortisol control the dose of magnesium should be 125-250 mg, calcium 250-500 mg and B vitamins 200-500% of RDA recommendations. These levels are significantly higher than the levels found in most multivitamin products.

Magnesium glycinate by Pure Encapsulations, 360 vegetarian caps, 120 mg. Magnesium glycinate is the best absorbed and highly bioavailable form of magnesium that is also easier on the stomach and does not cause diarrhea if taken in doses recommended for cortisol control purposes as many other forms of magnesium do.

Calcium orotate by Advanced Research, 100 tablets. Each tablet contains 500 mg of calcium in form of orotate and 112 mg of magnesium in form of magnesium L-aspartate and magnesium hydrogen phosphate trihydate.

According to research conducted by German Dr. Hans Nieper, MD, calcium orotate is one of the most important substances to prevent cortisone and high cortisol side effects, reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis, recover from osteochondrosis, spinal and hip injuries, treat bone loss and support cartilage building.

Tri-B 100 by Douglas Labs is a complete complex of vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12) 100 mg/mcg and folic acid 400 mcg, 60 tablets.

Vitamin D

About 90% of people with autoimmune thyroid disease have an impaired ability to process vitamin D due to a genetic defect that prevents vitamin D from entering into the cells. Furthermore, vitamin D has immunomodulating properties and has been shown to suppress autoimmune activity. Hashimoto’s patients should maintain high normal blood levels of vitamin D for optimal health.

Vitamin D drops 2000 IU by Biotics, 1 oz. Each drop contains 2000 IU of vitamin D as cholecalciferol in the emulsified form that ensures high absorption. Recent studies show that it is safe to use daily doses of 4000 IU and more to maintain serum 25 (OH) vitamin D at the healthy levels between 50 and 80 ng/mL.

A physiological dose of vitamin D is ideally 5000 IU per day. However, people with vitamin D deficiency, adrenal issues, leaky gut, chronic pain, Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune conditions have increased requirements for vitamin D.

Selenium

Many patients with gluten intolerance and celiac disease develop malabsorbtion and have low levels of selenium. About 13% of those with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis have celiac disease which have been shown to affect thyroid autoimmunity due to impaired absorption of selenium and other nutrients. People with low selenium have also lower production of T3 and higher levels of reverse T3 that can be improved with selenium supplementation.

Seleno-Methionine 200 mcg by Douglas Labs.

Adequate selenium levels can protect against autoimmune thyroid disease and goiter development in adults. Studies show that treatment with selenomethione for 6 months reduces TPO antibodies and decreases the severity of Hashimoto’s disease.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential Fatty Acids or EFAs contribute to healthy hormone production (including thyroid), brain function, proper cellular communication and are proven to reduce inflammation. About 80% of Americans do not get enough EFAs due to a diet high in processed foods and bad fats. Ideal ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats should be between 3:1 and 5:1.
Mixed EFAs oil by Biotics, 8 oz. One tablespoon (14 ml) contains on average: 1,282 mg of Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) rich in omega-3 and 5,191 mg of linoleic acid rich in omega-6 from Walnut, Hazelnut, Sesame and Apricot Kernel Oils (cold pressed).

Optimal EFAs oil Caps by Biotics, 120 Caps is a balanced mix which contains an optimal ratio of the highest quality fish, flaxseed and borage oils and provides omega-3, 6, and 9 essential fatty acids.

Glutathione

Glutathione is a tripeptide amino acid that consists of glycine, cycteine and glutamic acid. It is a powerfull antioxidant that modulates the immune system, supports the T-regulatory cells, balance Th1 and Th2 branches of the immune system, helps recover from the tissue damage, leaky gut, reduce oxidative stress and aging.

People under chronic stress, those who have Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune diseases are known to have low levels of glutathione. Glutathione is most effective if it is administered as an injection or a liposomal cream. Cream can be applied topically over the thyroid and has been proven to reduce the inflammation of the thyroid gland.

Glutathione supplements in form of pills or tablets are ineffective because glutathione is destroyed by the stomach acid and does not reach the cells. Please do not waste your money on it! However, taking supplements containing  glutathione precursors can also raise glutathione levels.

Glutathione Plus Cream by IP Formulas, 2 oz. Highly bio-available glutathione cream which contains 5mg/pump and 120 pumps per container.

Premium Ultra-Effective Liposomal Glutathione by Lipoceutical.

Y-Age Glutathione Booster Patch (30 days supply)

Pharmax Glutathione Precursors – 30 Vegetarian Capsules for fast increase of glutathione levels due to conversion from it’s precursors. Amount per serving includes N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) 200mg, Glutamic acid 200mg, Alpha-lipoic acid 200mgand  Glycine 100mg

Probiotics

Probiotics can modulate immune system, help to recover from dysbiosis, support conversion of T4 thyroid hormone to it’s metabolically active form T3.

PB 8 Pro-Biotic Acidophilus by Nutrition Now, 120 Caps, 14 billion good bacteria per 2 capsules. It is a vegetarian probiotic formula that contains strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, S. thermophilus, Bifidobacterium longum and Bifidobacterium bifidum.

Probiotic All-Flora by New Chapter Organics, Vegetarian Capsules, 60-Count. Certified organic live probiotics that contain nine strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus helveticus to support optimal digestive and immune function.

Hydrochloric Acid

HCL is known to be low in the hypothyroid patients. Suplementing with HCL helps to increase the stomach’s own acid production which is necessary for a proper digestion of proteins. HCL should be taken during the second half of the meal in order to avoid neutralisation of some digestive enzymes.

Betaine HCL by Designs For Health 120 tabs, 750 mg per tablet