SAN ANTONIO –
Feeling a little tired or forgetful lately? Or have you put on a few pounds? A quick internet search may lead you to think your thyroid is underactive, tempting you to reach for thyroid supplements. But Consumer Reports said that may do more harm than good.
Some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can have vague symptoms. When the thyroid gland at the front of the neck produces too little thyroid hormone, it can slow essential body processes, including heart rate and metabolism.
"Hypothyroidism can cause people to feel fatigued. They could gain weight. They could have brain fog, but plenty of people with those symptoms may have a perfectly functioning thyroid,” said Julia Calderone, Consumer Reports’ health editor.
People who may not have a thyroid problem but are desperate to lose weight and feel more energetic sometimes turn to thyroid supplements, which are often marketed as boosting energy and metabolism “naturally.”
But Consumer Reports' health experts warn that helping yourself to thyroid supplements is a bad idea.
When you're looking at these bottles, you will see mostly herbal ingredients on the label. But according to a study in The Journal Thyroid, they found that in nine out of 10 supplements tested, there were actual thyroid hormones,” Calderone said.
An excess of thyroid hormones in those supplements can cause bone thinning or, even worse, an erratic heartbeat, which can lead to a stroke.
Some supplements may also contain significant amounts of iodine, which in some people can cause the thyroid to slow, leading to weight gain and fatigue — the exact opposite of what many people hope these supplements will do.
Hypothyroidism can be determined with a blood test. If you suspect you have a thyroid problem, consult your doctor.