Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Hypothyroidism
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Iodine | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner |  [2 stars] Iodine deficiency and excessive iodine intake can both lead to hypothyroidism, so ask your doctor if supplementing with iodine is right for you. |
Bladderwrack | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Bladderwrack is a type of brown seaweed that contains iodine. Hypothyroidism due to insufficient iodine intake may improve with bladderwrack supplementation. |
Selenium | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Selenium plays a role in thyroid hormone metabolism. People who are deficient in selenium may benefit from supplementation. |
Thyroid Extracts | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Thyroid extract is used by some doctors as an alternative to synthetic thyroid hormones. One doctor reported that thyroid extract worked better than standard thyroid preparations for many of his patients with hypothyroidism. |
Vitamin A | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] People with hypothyroidism may have an impaired ability to convert beta-carotene to vitamin A. For this reason, some doctors suggest supplementing with vitamin A. |
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] Vitamin B3 (niacin) supplementation may decrease thyroid hormone levels. |
Zinc | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] In people with low zinc, supplementing with zinc may increased thyroid hormone levels. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.