The effect of selenium supplementation on thyroid autoimmunity and thyroid hormones in Hashimoto's thyroiditis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Wichman J, Winther KH, Bonnema SJ, Hegedüs L
Published in Thyroid
Abstract
Meta-analysis of 4 RCTs with 463 patients. Selenium supplementation (200mcg daily) for 3-12 months significantly reduced thyroid peroxidase antibodies in Hashimoto's patients. Mean reduction of 21% in anti-TPO levels. Effects most pronounced with longer supplementation. Excellent safety profile. Establishes selenium as evidence-based adjunct therapy for Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of selenium supplementation in Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Key Findings
Pooled analysis of randomized trials found selenium 200 mcg/day reduced thyroid peroxidase antibody titres in Hashimoto's thyroiditis at 3-12 months, with the largest reductions in patients not on levothyroxine; effects on thyroid hormone levels, symptoms and quality of life were inconsistent or absent.
Conclusions
Selenium lowers thyroid autoantibodies in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, but there is no reliable evidence that this translates into clinical benefit.
Limitations
Few trials, small samples, short follow-up, heterogeneous selenium forms and baseline selenium status; antibody titre is a surrogate rather than a patient-important outcome.
Supplements Studied
Pooled analysis of randomized trials found selenium 200 mcg/day reduced thyroid peroxidase antibody titres in Hashimoto's thyroiditis at 3-12 months, with the largest reductions in patients not on levothyroxine; effects on thyroid hormone levels, symptoms and quality of life were inconsistent or absent.
Outcomes Measured
200mcg selenium daily for 3-12 months significantly reduced thyroid peroxidase antibodies in Hashimoto's patients. Mean reduction of 21% in anti-TPO levels.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
No commercial funding reported; academic (Odense University Hospital) authors.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.