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Using L-tyrosine to support thyroid function may be effective and may increase levels of T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). This may have benefits for energy levels, weight loss, mood, skin health and more.
L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acids used in the body as a building block for proteins. This compound is also used to synthesize the neurotransmitter dopamine as well as the catecholamine hormones, including epinephrine and norepinephrine.
The effects of L-tyrosine supplementation on thyroid gland function are well-documented. As a result, this supplement may be useful for addressing conditions such as chronic fatigue, obesity, depression, heart disease, diabetes, stroke and more.
Additional benefits linked to L-tyrosine use include a reduction in feelings of stress, improved mental alertness and focus, improved sexual performance and libido, as well as increased motivation and feelings of general well-being.
Motivation
Mental Focus
Mood- Supports energy & motivation
- Promotes focus & mental clarity
- Improves mood & stress response
Top Tyrosine Products* ❯L-Tyrosine for Low Thyroid Hormone Levels
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Chronically low L-tyrosine levels often lead to hypothyroidism.
L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid, which means the body is capable of synthesizing it internally and it does not normally need to be supplemented.
We can make tyrosine from phenylalanine, which is an essential amino acid found in many high-protein foods. However, there are some situations in which low tyrosine levels can occur and this may negatively affect thyroid hormone levels.
When an individual does not obtain adequate L-tyrosine from dietary sources, depression, fatigue and other common hypothyroidism symptoms may develop.
Hypothyroidism disorders can negatively affect the metabolism of the body and thermoregulation. Many patients with low thyroid hormone levels have body temperatures between 2 and 4 degrees (F) below normal. This can worsen the metabolic efficiency of the body and cause a number of side effects linked to low energy levels.
Some of the conditions related to poor thyroid function include weight gain, loss of muscle mass, confused speech, swollen neck, dementia, menstrual abnormalities, constipation, headaches, backaches, brittle hair, poor circulation and poor glucose regulation.
L-tyrosine is a precursor to the thyroid hormones T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). It is necessary to synthesize the inactive T4, which can then be converted into the active T3. Taking an L-tyrosine supplement may therefore increase thyroid hormone levels and alleviate some signs of hypothyroidism.
Tyrosine and Iodine
In order to make thyroid hormone, the body also needs iodine. Iodine is a component of T4 which is used to make T3. Iodine may also increase the absorption of L-tyrosine.
Taking tyrosine with iodine can have a synergistic effect for thyroid function. Increasing your intake of sea vegetables like kelp, scallops, cod, shrimp, sardines, salmon, tuna and chicken eggs can provide more Iodine in the diet.
Other herbs and supplements that can support thyroid function include Forskolin, Ashwagandha, and L-Carnitine.
How Much L-Tyrosine for Hypothyroidism?
If using L-tyrosine for thyroid support, dosages of between 500 mg – 1000 mg, taken 2 or 3 times daily are recommended.
Tyrosine should not be taken with food to improve absorption from the intestinal track
L-tyrosine has received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status by the FDA in the United States. No serious side effects have been observed at dosage levels typically present in foods or at higher dosages of up to 12,000 mg per day.
In some cases, mild side effects of nausea, diarrhea, vomiting or headache have been reported at high doses.
It is best to discuss the use of L-tyrosine for thyroid function with your endocrinologist before beginning to take it. There are interactions possible with pharmaceutical drugs and other supplements which may cause negative side effects.
How to Naturally Support Thyroid Function
There are other natural ways that you can help to improve thyroid hormone levels, in addition to the use of L-Tyrosine supplements. By making certain lifestyle changes, patients with hypothyroidism are often able to decrease the amount of thyroid replacement medications they require.
Some of the ways you can promote improved thyroid function include:
- Eating a healthy diet;
- Practicing yoga and breathing exercises (pranayama);
- Engaging in a meditation program;
- Exercising and being more active;
- Drinking enough water;
- Holistic therapeutic approaches including acupuncture, acupressure and massage;
By naturally stimulating the function of the thyroid glands, it may be possible to reduce symptoms of chronic hypothyroidism.
Conclusions
L-tyrosine is a precursor to the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). This hormone can also be converted into T3, which is the active form of thyroid hormone.
L-tyrosine also affects the pituitary gland’s signaling for increased production of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). This determines how much T3 and T4 the thyroid produces.
The thyroid plays a very important role in the body, regulating metabolism and controlling the availability of a number of other hormones. Using L-tyrosine to improve low thyroid levels may be effective, especially when combined with iodine and other complementary herbs and supplements. Talk to your doctor to learn more.
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Article last updated on: March 25th, 2018 by Nootriment