Advisory

Hypothyroidism

Hypofunction of the thyroid gland, referred to as hypothyroidism, is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient amounts of hormones. These hormones are crucial for regulating metabolism, which is the way the body uses energy. Symptoms of thyroid gland hypofunction may include fatigue, weight gain, depression, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, and a slowed heart rate.
From a nutritional standpoint, it is important for individuals with thyroid gland hypofunction to maintain a balanced diet that supports the health of this organ. This includes consuming foods rich in iodine, such as seafood and iodized salt, which support the production of thyroid hormones. It is also important to limit consumption of foods that may interfere with thyroid function, such as soy products and certain types of vegetables (for example, broccoli and kale).

Hello, I have a question regarding DLPA and its subsequent metabolism to thyroxine in a person with hypothyroidism. You mention that it is non-toxic, but I am concerned about whether people with this condition might experience a different process compared to healthy individuals. After all, it seems to me that the number of patients with this condition is increasing nowadays, and they could be helped by, to put it colloquially, "boosting the function" of the thyroid gland and subsequently metabolism precisely through DLPA?

START OF TEXT: DLPA acts as one of the building blocks in the formation of thyroid hormones. The mechanism is quite complex; at this level, it does not work directly in the sense of "increased DLPA intake = clearly defined support for thyroid hormonal regulation" (DLPA is converted into tyrosine by the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase, and in the thyroid, triiodothyronine and thyroxine hormones are formed from tyrosine and iodine. However, supportive supplementation here is not a guarantee of increased production of the mentioned hormones, as it depends on a variety of other variable factors). When adjusting dietary concepts, always aim first at achieving nutritional balance, primarily ensuring adequate levels of substances known to have a direct impact on the functioning of this organ (iodine, selenium, antioxidants...). If an individual with hypothyroidism is on medication, it is advisable for them to consult their treating endocrinologist regarding DLPA supplementation.

Hello,
would you recommend a person with hypothyroidism to take flaxseed oil? I've become enthusiastic about it as a source of Omega 3, but in the lesson, you mention that flax is among unsuitable foods, so I'm not sure if this also applies to the oil. Thank you very much.

The reason for the preventive avoidance of consuming flaxseeds is the relatively high content of phytoestrogens, which may not be desirable for certain thyroid dysfunctions. However, flaxseed oil contains a fractional amount of these substances, and its use in moderate amounts is perfectly acceptable.

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Nutrition educator, lecturer, and author of the educational system and the ZOF learning application.

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

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