Increase Free T3 Without Medication

Summary

This video script discusses the importance of T3 levels for thyroid function and offers natural ways to improve them. It highlights the role of supplements like zinc and selenium, the significance of gut health, reducing reverse T3 levels, liver function, and iron levels. It also touches on the use of adaptogens for stress management and the controversial topic of iodine intake, advocating for a balanced approach to boost T3 levels naturally.

Takeaways

• 🌡️ T3 level is a crucial measure of thyroid function, indicating the amount of active thyroid hormone available in the body.
• 💊 Supplements like zinc and selenium can significantly improve T3 levels, especially for those deficient in these minerals.
• 🌿 Natural treatments are effective for enhancing T3 status, with zinc and selenium being particularly beneficial.
• 📉 Hypothyroid patients often lack zinc and selenium, which are essential for the enzymes that convert T4 into T3.
• 🔍 Research shows that supplementing with zinc and selenium can increase free T3 and decrease TSH in deficient individuals.
• 🚫 Excessive zinc or selenium supplementation beyond the optimal dose does not provide additional benefits and may cause side effects.
• 🌀 Gut health is vital for T3 conversion, with approximately 20% of the process occurring in the gut.
• 🍽️ Dietary changes can improve gut health and, consequently, T3 levels.
• 🏋️‍♀️ Intermediate-intensity exercise can help regulate T3 levels by affecting the conversion of T4 to T3.
• 🚫 High reverse T3 levels can impair the effectiveness of T3, and managing it is key to thyroid health.
• 🏥 Liver function is critical for T3 activation, with up to 60% of the conversion process happening in the liver.

Q & A

Why is T3 considered the most important measure of thyroid function?

T3 is considered the most important measure of thyroid function because it represents the amount of active thyroid hormone available for use in the body. The more T3 you have, the better you will feel.

What supplements can help improve T3 levels?

Supplements like zinc and selenium can help improve T3 levels. These minerals are essential co-actors for enzymes that help the body convert T4 into T3.

Why are zinc and selenium important for thyroid health?

Zinc and selenium are important because they help with the conversion of T4 into T3. Deficiencies in these minerals can lead to less efficient enzyme function and lower T3 levels.

What is the recommended dosage for zinc supplements?

The recommended dosage for zinc supplements is about 5 to 15 mg in any one serving. Higher doses will not be absorbed and can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

What forms of selenium are beneficial for thyroid health?

Selenium as selenomethionine or selenium glycinate is beneficial for thyroid health. A dosage of around 50 to 150 micrograms per serving is recommended.

How can gut health impact T3 levels?

Approximately 20% of T4 to T3 conversion occurs in the gut. Poor gut health can compromise this conversion, leading to lower T3 levels.

What is reverse T3 and how does it affect thyroid function?

Reverse T3 is an anti-thyroid metabolite that competes for T3 binding sites. Higher levels of reverse T3 can reduce the effectiveness of T3 in the body.

How can exercise affect T3 levels?

Exercise intensity can influence T3 levels. Intermediate-intensity exercise, with a heart rate of about 50 to 70% of maximum, can improve T3 levels.

Why is liver function important for T3 status?

The liver plays a crucial role in activating and converting T3. Liver dysfunction can significantly impact thyroid health and T3 levels.

What role does iron play in thyroid function?

Iron is a co-actor for the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is necessary for the production of T4 and T3. Iron deficiency can compromise thyroid hormone production.

How can adaptogens help with thyroid function?

Adaptogens like Maca, Ashwagandha, or Rhodiola can help manage stress and normalize cortisol levels, which can improve T3 levels by supporting T4 to T3 conversion.

What is the recommended iodine intake for maintaining optimal T3 levels?

The recommended iodine intake for maintaining optimal T3 levels is between 150 to 300 micrograms per day.