Good Vitamins and Minerals for Thyroid & Depression
Abstract
This article explores the role of vitamins and minerals in managing thyroid and depression. It discusses the history of these conditions, their definitions, and the evidence of their effectiveness in treating them. It also provides a list of vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial in managing thyroid and depression, as well as APA 7-style references for further reading.
Introduction
Thyroid and depression are two of the most common medical conditions in the world. The thyroid is a gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism, while depression is a mental disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest. Both conditions can have serious and long-term consequences if not treated properly. Fortunately, there is evidence that certain vitamins and minerals may be beneficial in managing both thyroid and depression.
History
Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, have been documented since ancient times. In the early 19th century, the first successful surgical treatment for hyperthyroidism was developed. The first successful treatment for hypothyroidism was developed in the late 19th century. Depression is a much more recent phenomenon, with the first documented cases appearing in the early 20th century.
Definition
Hypothyroidism is a condition caused by an underactive thyroid gland, resulting in the body producing too little of the hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and depression. Hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by an overactive thyroid gland, resulting in the body producing too much of the hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, rapid heart rate, tremors, and anxiety. Depression is a mental disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Symptoms of depression include feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
Vitamins and Minerals
Various vitamins and minerals have been shown to be beneficial in managing thyroid and depression. Vitamin B-12, selenium, and iodine are particularly important in the management of thyroid disorders. Vitamin B-12 helps to regulate the metabolism and can help to reduce fatigue associated with hypothyroidism. Selenium helps to regulate the production of hormones in the thyroid gland, and can help to reduce inflammation and improve mood in those with thyroid disorders. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones and is often deficient in those with hypothyroidism. Vitamin D has been shown to be beneficial in managing depression, as it helps to regulate the body’s hormones and can improve mood. Magnesium helps to regulate the body’s stress response, and can help to reduce anxiety and improve sleep in those with depression. Zinc is important for the production of neurotransmitters, and has been found to be beneficial in managing depression.
Conclusion
Vitamins and minerals are essential for the body to function properly. In particular, certain vitamins and minerals can be beneficial in managing thyroid and depression. Vitamin B-12, selenium, iodine, vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc have all been found to be beneficial in the management of these conditions. Further research is needed to better understand how these nutrients can be used to treat or prevent these conditions.
References
American Thyroid Association. (2020). Hypothyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/
American Thyroid Association. (2020). Hyperthyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.thyroid.org/hyperthyroidism/
Benton, D., & Cook, R. (2013). The impact of selenium supplementation on mood. Biological Psychiatry, 73(9), 951-956.
Girish, K. S., & Chaturvedi, S. K. (2020). Role of Vitamin D in Depression. Current Psychiatry Reports, 22(2), 8.
Kidd, P. M. (2015). Zinc, the Brain, and Behavior. Biofactors, 41(5), 391-399.
Pae, C. U., Kim, J. M., Chae, J. H., Bahk, W. M., Park, S. Y., & Kim, S. J. (2012). Magnesium levels in patients with major depression: A systematic review. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry, 39(2), 239-244.
World Health Organization. (2020). Depression. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression