After my Thyroidectomy and RAI, I left all the management of my hormones to my doctors. My levels would go up, and then they would go down. Sometimes it would be just right. But I never felt like I did prior to having my thyroid removed.
Many years went by and my life slowed down to a crawl. Not to mention my weight was mounting on top of all my unfinished chores and projects. Then the fatigue, inflammation, allergies, and temperature regulation forced me to look deeper.
I was surprised to learn that I could actually help support how my body uses hormones by utilizing specific Cofactors.
I realized my body didn't need to be pushed harder-- it needed better support.
Thyroid hormone doesn't work alone.
The body relies on nutrients and cofactors to properly convert, transport, and use it.
Instead of adding stimulatory supplements, I focused on supporting the biological processes already in place.
My goal isn't to override my medication-- it's to help my body use it better.
This page is for adults navigating life after thyroid surgery and now manage thyroid hormone replacement. It is not a replacement for medication or medical care. These are foundational supports that complement-- not override--prescribed treatment.
Below is a list of Cofactors I personally take.
Magnesium plays a role in hundreds of enzymatic processes in the body, including nervous system regulation and muscle function. I personally take 2 capsules 240mg at bedtime. It offers that calming profile and consistent support. It is my nighttime game changer!
Selenium is necessary for converting thyroid hormone into its active form (T3) and for protecting cells from oxidative stress. Even without a thyroid gland, the body still relies on Selenium for proper hormone metabolism.
⚠️Be mindful of where else you consume Selenium. Don't blindly stack. I.e., Do not take if you also consume Brazil nuts, or other vitamins that contain Selenium.
I like to take a capsule every other day, to equate to 100mcg daily.
My Vitamin D levels are monitored through labs and managed with my provider. Adequate Vitamin D plays a role not only in immune function but the overall balance of the hormone wheel!
⚠️ If you're supplementing Vitamin D, I strongly recommend doing so with lab guidance.
B vitamins are involved in energy production and methylation pathways that influence how the body processes and utilizes hormones. If I feel I'm lower on energy I will take 1 capsule every other day.
Folate also supports methylation (the light switch for molecules-- when it comes to turning on, turning off, detox, build, repair or conversion.) I use this one on days that my energy is stable, and I want to avoid stimulation. I can safely take the 1mg capsule every other day.
NAC supports the body's production of glutathione-- an antioxidant involved in managing oxidative stress and inflammatory load. I don't use NAC year-round. I use it strategically when inflammation or seasonal allergies are elevated. For me, it;s been most helpful during high-inflammatory periods, and I cycle it intentionally rather than taking it indefinitely. It's not a daily necessity, it's a tool! Currently, I am taking 1 capsule early afternoon, and another late afternoon to early evening for 8 weeks, then taper to 1 capsule for 4 weeks after that.