B complex

[Andrew36]

Can taking a b complex help hypothyroidism instead of levothyroxine?

[TiggerMe]

It will help your body make better use of available thyroid hormones but it won't replace them if your body doesn't create enough

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK]

If that were possible, what would happen to those who take a B-complex alongside their thyroid hormone medicine(s)?

Many here, some on stable doses of thyroid hormones, start a B-complex. They might feel better for doing so, but we do not see them reducing thyroid hormone doses or stopping altogether.

Also, not all B-complexes are equal. For example, the precise form in which the vitamins are provided makes a difference. As can the quantities and balance of the vitamins.

helvella - Vitamers of Vitamin B6

Some time ago, I mentioned that the form in which we take vitamin B6 is important. I think I linked to this paper:

helvella.blogspot.com/p/hel...

[Buddy195 Administrator]

I feel so much better since improving folate and B12 via following forum advice to test, then supplement as needed. However, my thyroid medication has remained at the same dose.

[SarahJane1471]

I have tried many different brands of B complex but they all give me the jitters and Niacin Flush, so I’ve stopped trying. But I do take B12 and D oral spray which i tolerate

[SlowDragon Administrator in reply to SarahJane1471]

Have you tried adding a separate folate supplement too

[SarahJane1471 in reply to SlowDragon]

Yes Methylfolate 3 times a week. I would love to take just B complex but I’ve spent a fortune on difficult brands and they all make me feel weird…….. but then I am a bit weird anyway 😀

[59Blue in reply to SarahJane1471]

I’ve had the same problem and wondered if it was the huge doses in many of the complexes. Much better on taking methyl folate and b12 separately in lower doses

[greygoose]

You can only replace a hormone with a hormone, not a vitamin. So, if you have low thyroiid hormones, you need thyroid hormone replacement. And, whilst optimising all your nutrients might help you feel better (because low nutrients cause symptoms) you still need to take your levo.