Evidence supporting the use of: Magnesium
For the body system: Thyroid Gland

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in numerous physiological processes, including energy production, enzyme function, and regulation of various biochemical pathways. Its relevance to thyroid function primarily stems from its role as a cofactor in the production of thyroid hormones. Specifically, magnesium supports the activity of enzymes like iodothyronine deiodinase, which converts thyroxine (T4) into the more active triiodothyronine (T3). Additionally, magnesium is involved in ATP synthesis, which is critical for thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion.

While magnesium deficiency has been linked to various endocrine disturbances, only limited evidence specifically associates it with thyroid dysfunction. Some observational studies and small clinical trials suggest that low magnesium status may be more common in individuals with thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, and that supplementation may help correct related metabolic disturbances. However, robust, large-scale clinical trials directly demonstrating that magnesium supplementation improves thyroid function in otherwise healthy individuals are lacking. Most clinical guidelines do not recommend magnesium supplementation solely for thyroid support unless a deficiency is identified.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale for magnesium’s involvement in thyroid hormone metabolism and some supporting evidence from observational research, direct evidence supporting its use specifically to support thyroid health is modest. Therefore, the use of magnesium for thyroid support is scientifically plausible but not strongly validated by high-quality intervention trials.

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