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Copper is required to convert thyroid hormone.

copper hypothyroidism

Iodine, Tyrosine...these two nutrients, and even others like Selenium, Zinc and Iron, get a lot of attention for their role in thyroid function. But one that’s often overlooked? Copper.
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Copper is needed to make Thyroid Regulating Hormone (TRH). It’s also needed to make Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO).
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Copper is also required to convert T4 into T3 (Walker et al.). The activity of deiodinase, which regulates the activity of thyroid hormone, is correlated with Copper levels. (Olin et al.) ~90% of T3 is made from T4. T3 is 4X stronger than T4, so this conversion is pretty important!
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“Low copper levels may reduce thyroid functions.” — Dr. Elson M. Haas and Dr. Buck Levin, R.D.
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In fact, the symptoms of Copper dysregulation or deficiency look a lot like hypothyroidism...
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〰️Fatigue
〰️Anemia
〰️Slow tissue healing
〰️Hair loss
〰️Dermatitis
〰️Weakened imⓂ️unℹ️ty
〰️High cholesterol
〰️Bone demineralization
〰️Brain fog
〰️Fertility challenges/miscarriage
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As you can see, copper plays a very important role in thyroid hormone production essential for us to create energy — and for our overall health. This is certainly a generalization, but likely anyone with copper dysregulation or deficiency could very well be dealing with hypothyroidism. Of course, this is one piece of a very complicated puzzle.
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How to boost your bioavailable copper?
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〰️Minimize copper-depleters (see my “Minimize” highlight).
〰️Get more copper-rich foods (see my “Iron & Copper” highlight).
〰️Get more Vitamin A-rich foods (see my “Vitamins” highlight).
〰️Eat at a meal frequency that makes sense for you, to keep your liver functioning (this is important for thyroid hormone conversion too).
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This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before pursuing any changes to your personal healthcare regime.

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References

Bernal, J. (2003). Deiodinase. Retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/deiodinase.

Haas, E. M. Levin, B. (2006). Staying Healthy with Nutrition. New York, NY: Ten Speed Press.

Olin, K.L. Walter, R.M. Kleen, C.L. (1994). Copper deficiency affects selenoglutathione peroxidase and selenodeiodinase activities and antioxidant defense in weanling rats. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8116544/.

Sargis, R.M. (2019). How Your Thyroid Works: https://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/thyroid/how-your-thyroid-works.

Sparre, A. (2020). 4Health: 255b: Morley Robbins – Thyroid vs. Mitochondria? Thyroid Conversations 1 (English). Retrieved from: https://podcasts.apple.com/se/podcast/255b-morley-robbins-thyroid-vs-mitochondria-thyroid/id907951009?i=1000473405313.

Tortora, J. Derrickson, B. (2015). The Human Body. Danvers, MA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. While the owner of this website tries to keep the information up to date, there may be things that are out-of-date and out of their control.