Protocol · Endocrine & Metabolic
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Supportive Care Protocol
Selenium and Vitamin D are the core of this stack, with 6 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Supportive Care.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
8 supplements · 2 graded · 1 confirmed study
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Selenium | Amount listed: 200 mcg daily (selenomethionine form preferred) | Essential for thyroid hormone conversion; reduces TPO antibodies in Hashimoto's
| Grade D for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Signs1,377 people | ||
Confirmed studies for Selenium (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–5,000 IU daily (target 40–60 ng/mL) | Immunomodulatory effects; deficiency associated with autoimmune thyroid disease | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 25–30 mg daily | Required for thyroid hormone synthesis and conversion; supports immune function | Not graded yet | ||
| Iodine | Amount listed: 150 mcg daily from diet or multivitamin (avoid high doses) | Essential for thyroid hormone production; but CAUTION - excess can worsen Hashimoto's
| Grade C for Serum T4300 people | ||
| Iron | Amount listed: Only if deficient - target ferritin >70 ng/mL for optimal thyroid function | Required for thyroid peroxidase enzyme; deficiency impairs thyroid function | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin B12 | Amount listed: 1,000–2,000 mcg methylcobalamin daily if deficient | Often deficient with autoimmune thyroid disease; supports energy and nerve function | Not graded yet | ||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | Anti-inflammatory effects may help modulate autoimmune response | Not graded yet | ||
| Magnesium | Amount listed: 300–400 mg daily | Supports thyroid hormone metabolism and reduces stress response | Not graded yet | ||
Shop this protocol
Support alongside medical care. These supplements are not a treatment for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. If you are being treated for it, talk to your clinician before adding one: supplements can interact with medicines.
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade D
- Grade C
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. It's the most common cause of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) in areas with adequate iodine. The attack gradually destroys thyroid tissue, leading to decreased hormone production. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, brain fog, depression, and irregular periods. It's diagnosed by elevated TSH, low thyroid hormones, and presence of anti-thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-thyroglobulin).
CRITICAL: Hashimoto's typically requires thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) once hypothyroidism develops. Regular monitoring of TSH is essential. These supplements support thyroid function and may help reduce antibody levels, but they don't replace hormone replacement when needed. Work with your endocrinologist or thyroid-focused physician. Be aware that certain supplements and foods (particularly iodine in excess, some goitrogens) can affect thyroid function. Take thyroid medication on an empty stomach, separated from supplements (especially calcium, iron) by 4 hours.
Selenium* has the strongest evidence for Hashimoto's. Multiple studies show it reduces anti-TPO antibody levels. The thyroid has the highest selenium concentration of any organ, and selenium is essential for converting T4 to active T3.
Vitamin D* deficiency is strongly associated with autoimmune thyroid disease. Vitamin D has immunomodulatory effects and supplementation may help reduce antibody levels.
Zinc* is required for thyroid hormone synthesis and T4 to T3 conversion. Deficiency impairs thyroid function.
Iodine* is essential for thyroid hormone production, BUT excess iodine can actually worsen Hashimoto's by stimulating autoimmunity. Stick to RDA levels (150mcg) and avoid high-dose iodine supplements or seaweed in large amounts.
Iron* is required for the thyroid peroxidase enzyme. Iron deficiency is common in hypothyroidism and impairs treatment response.
Vitamin B12* deficiency is more common in people with autoimmune thyroid disease (may be related to autoimmune gastritis).
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* may help modulate the autoimmune inflammatory response.
Magnesium* supports overall thyroid metabolism.
Expected timeline: Selenium may reduce antibodies within 3-6 months. Thyroid hormone optimization is ongoing. Symptoms improve as TSH normalizes with medication.