Living without a thyroid - what are my protein requirements?

[superb_lulu]

Hi all

I had my thyroid out @ 10 years ago due to Graves. At some point in my subsequent journey, an endocrinologist recommended I consume adequate levels of protein - as it is needed for T4 to T3 conversion. I cannot remember the figure (grams/per day) he suggested. I weigh 70kg. Any suggestions?

Thanks

Louisa

[PurpleNails Administrator]

You need adequate “everything” if you take thyroid replacement.  ie extra protein or a protein rich diet isn’t the answer.

The Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) for protein for adults is 0.75g protein per kg body weight per day - but if training, you likely need considerably more.  

 Do you have any results? TSH, FT4 & FT3.  Are FT4 & FT3 both good in range? 

Poor conversion can occur if nutrients not optimal.  Have folate, ferritin, B12 & vitamin D been tested? 

[Jazzw in reply to PurpleNails]

Would absolutely agree with the “adequate everything” comment. 🙂

The macro nutrient that gets mentioned most though when it comes to conversion of T4 to T3 is carbohydrate, rather than protein.

[pennyannie]

Hello Lulu :

Can you give us a bit more information - looking back several years ago you were asking about Efra, and more recently you developed TED and most recently run a 5K !!

I too have Graves but had RAI thyroid ablation in 2005 and can run for bus and that's about it !!

What medication are you now taking and first and foremost to help you we do need to see a full blood test to include a TSH, Free T3 , Free T4 antibodies, inflammation, and ferritin, folate, B12 and vitamin D.

If you doctor can't run this full thyroid panel for you if you go into Thyroid Uk - the charity who support this forum - thyroiduk.org there are private companies who can and where we all start off in out steps to better thyroid health.

Of all the websites I researched I found the Elaine Moore Graves Disease Foundation the most well rounded especially, after the event, and the holistic and complimentary therapies that may help in our understanding of this poorly understood and badly treated auto immune disease for which there is no cure. elaine-moore.com