We conducted a thorough investigation into how vitamin A supplementation might impact thyroid function, particularly focusing on women who are premenopausal and have varying body weights. Our study was a robust, four-month randomized controlled trial involving 84 healthy women aged 17 to 50. Among them, 56 women were classified as obese, while 28 fell into the nonobese category.
Throughout the study, we administered 25,000 IU of vitamin A or a placebo to the obese participants, while nonobese participants received vitamin A as well. Before and after the supplementation period, we measured key thyroid markers, including thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), total thyroxine (T4), total triiodothyronine (T3), and proteins associated with vitamin A transport.
Our findings revealed that vitamin A supplementation significantly reduced TSH concentrations in both the obese and nonobese groups, suggesting it may help mitigate the risk of subclinical hypothyroidism. Interestingly, we also noticed an increase in serum T3 levels among those treated with vitamin A. However, T4 levels decreased across all groups, including those not receiving vitamin A.
Overall, it appears that vitamin A may serve as a beneficial intervention for thyroid function in women, particularly those at risk for hypothyroidism. This research highlights an accessible avenue to better support thyroid health through dietary supplementation.
Thyroid support
Most Useful Review
Vitamin A in retinol palmitate form aids the absorption of beta-carotene, alongside vitamins D and E. Research shows that vitamin A deficiency in hypothyroidism links to autoimmune thyroiditis and low T3 levels. It protects the thyroid even with iodine deficiency. Since it’s hard to replenish vitamin A from plant sources, I take one capsule daily.