How to optimise your thyroxine conversion naturally
Do you rely on thyroxine for your thyroid condition? Thyroxine, or T4, is the most common medication used in thyroid disorders, particularly in an underactive thyroid. But there are a lot of factors that are involved in how well you absorb and convert it.
So whether you’re still feeling hypothyroid on your current dose or you just want to get the most out of your medication, this article is for you.
How to optimise thyroxine conversion
Follow the instructions for your medication
It seems like obvious advice, but it’s one that many people neglect to begin with! Most thyroid medications will instruct you to take it on an empty stomach and wait around an hour before eating. This might be annoying, but it makes a big difference to your absorption!
However, each medication is different. So make sure you read and understand what the best procedure is for your particular brand and form of thyroxine. If you’re unsure, you can seek the advice of your pharmacist.
Separate your other medications and supplements
It’s tempting to take everything at once so you don’t forget or have to come back later. But thyroxine is one that needs to be separate from most (if not all) medications and supplements.
Iron supplements, other mineral supplements, antacids and cholesterol medications are best taken 4hrs away from your thyroxine. With any other medications or supplements, it’s best to separate by at least an hour. Again, if you’re unsure whether you can take something with your thyroid medication, have a chat to your friendly pharmacist.
Delay your morning brew
Reaching for the coffee pot as soon as you've taken thyroid medication? Coffee can reduce your absorption of thyroxine by 30% - which is a significant amount when you consider how important thyroid hormones are for your health!
To get the most out of your medication, hold off on the coffee until at least 60 minutes after your dose.
PS - the same goes for tea drinkers as well!
Manage your stress
Yes, stress management is part of your thyroxine optimisation plan!
Why? When you’re stressed out and your cortisol is high, your body will reduce the conversion from T4 to T3. Instead, it will direct more T4 into reverse T3, leading to a hypothyroid state.
Find that the stress is piling up? Check out my top 10 tips for managing stress here.
Include plenty of thyroid nutrients
Your body requires nutrients to convert thyroid hormone into active form, particularly zinc and selenium. This is even more important if you’re using thyroxine.
Not sure which nutrients are critical for your thyroid health? I’ve covered the most important ones in detail here.
Minimise the load on your liver
Did you know that a significant percentage of thyroid hormone conversion occurs in the liver? That means you want to keep your liver happy and not under stress!
So how can you keep your liver happy? Eating plenty of fibre and wholefoods, drinking lots of fresh, filtered water and only taking medications when absolutely necessary are a few simple pointers to start with.
You can also add in bitter foods such as dark leafy greens, lemon and other citrus fruits, and apple cider vinegar for some additional support.
THE POWER IS IN YOUR HANDS
When you receive a thyroid disease diagnosis, there’s a good chance you’ll feel overwhelmed and powerless. It could even be that you’re not clear on what’s driving it or where it came from!
But even if you’re still uncovering the cause, it doesn’t mean you need to suffer the symptoms forever! Your daily habits can make a massive difference – all you need to do is learn about your condition and empower yourself.