Pilot study: A nutraceutical approach to improve quality of life in individuals with thyroid problems

Study coordinator: Anja Lehmann Rød, Naturopath, specialist in thyroid disorders

Background: Approximately 240,000 Danes are estimated to suffer from thyroid illness, mainly resulting in low metabolism. Of these, only 50% receive treatment, typically in the form of synthetic T4 hormone drugs. It is well documented, and often discussed between patient and physician, that, despite the standard treatment, the well-being of the patient is often reduced compared to the level of well-being before the onset of thyroid illness.

Common complaints from patients include lack of energy, digestion problems, weight gain, dry skin and an increased need of sleep.

In addition to chronic inflammation and co-related illnesses, contributing factors to the development of thyroid illness in Denmark include a lack of iodine in the general population [1,2], lack of selenium intake [3] and a widespread vitamin D deficiency in most of the population [4]. Note that low levels of iodine persist despite the iodization of table salt.

Methods: In this multi-center pilot study, we investigated the impact of a multi-mineral and vitamin preparation (Porsano Hormon Balance) together with a high-dosed vitamin D preparation (Porsano Vitamin D 95 mcg) as complementary treatment in individuals with low metabolism. The two preparations aim at supporting the production of thyroid hormones, increasing the conversion from T4 to the more active T3 and improving cell-reception of the hormones.

10 clients (all women) from Zealand, Denmark, were recruited and followed for eight weeks in the period February to May 2024, with data analysis in July 2024. Besides their existing treatment with synthetic T4 hormones, the clients were given suggestions for lifestyle changes (mainly advice on diet and physical activity) and a daily intake of the two preparations. Before and after the intervention, each study participant completed a questionnaire on the frequency of symptoms such as fatigue, digestion issues, and reduced concentration. Grade one results indicated that the symptom was never / rarely experienced, whereas grade four results indicated that the symptom was experienced often and experienced to the extent that the daily life was affected negatively.

Results:

At baseline, the sum of all nine defined measure points from the 10 participants was 222, with fatigue (35 points), digestive problems (28 points) and joint- and muscle pain (28 points) as the dominating symptoms.

After intervention, the sum of all nine defined measure points from the 10 participants was 102, which corresponds to a reduction of 54%. The biggest reductions were observed in joint- and muscle pain (60,7% reduction), sadness (58% reduction) and sleep disorder (58%).

All 10 participants experienced significant reduction in reported symptoms. None of the study participants reported any adverse effects.

Conclusion:

This pilot study confirms that a nutraceutical approach consisting of a multi-mineral and vitamin preparation (Porsano Hormon Balance) and a high-dosed vitamin D preparation (Porsano Vitamin D 95 mcg) offers a safe and efficient addition to conventional treatment in thyroid patients with low metabolism. This nutraceutical approach helps to increase well-being and quality of life. More studies are needed to confirm these results.

submitted for presentation on SundVidenskab.dk, an online magazine for health and science updates

Ref 1: Global Iodine Status in 2011 and Trends, Andersson et al, Journal of Nutrition, Volume 142, Issue 4, April 2012, Pages 744-750

Ref 2: Long-term-iodine-nutrition-is-associated-with-longevity-in-older-adults, Riis et al, British Journal of Nutrition (2021), 125, 260–265

Ref 3: Ugeskrift for Laeger, statusartikel, selen og sundhed, 16. oktober 2006, Rasmussen et al

Ref 4: Ugeskrift for Laeger, oversigtsartikel, Vitamin-D mangel, February 2005, Mosekilde et al