Most commonly, biotin use can result in falsely high levels of T4 and T3 and falsely low levels of TSH, leading to either a wrong diagnosis of hyperthyroidism or that the thyroid hormone dose is too high.
In conclusion, the ingestion of 20 mg or more of biotin may lead to a clinically relevant thyroid assay interference. The clinicians must take this point in consideration before assessing the results of any thyroid function tests.
Treat nutritional deficiencies. Nutritional deficiencies can contribute to hair loss even without a thyroid condition. Specifically, researchers explain that levels of the following may play a role in hair retention and hair loss: vitamins B-7 (biotin) and B complex.
Biotin does NOT, however, directly alter your thyroid function so even though your numbers may be high your symptoms will not match your lab tests. Foods to Avoid if you Have Thyroid Problems: I've found that these 10 foods cause the most problems for thyroid patients.
Some Supplements Can Affect Thyroid Medication
According to the Mayo Clinic, supplements such as calcium, iron, multivitamins containing iron, and antacids containing magnesium or aluminum can potentially have interactions with thyroid medications.
Avoid taking your thyroid hormone at the same time as:
Iron supplements or multivitamins containing iron. Calcium supplements. Antacids that contain aluminum, magnesium or calcium. Some ulcer medications, such as sucralfate (Carafate)
Biotin aids in proper endocrine function. Biotin deficiency can result in dysfunction of both the adrenals and thyroid. Biotin supplementation has been shown to cause false elevations of thyroid hormones, while also leading to falsely lowered TSH on labs.
Excess in the body is rare, and since biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, it is excreted in the urine when in excess. Signs and symptoms of biotin overdose may include and are not limited to insomnia, excessive thirst, and urination.
Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause loss of hair. The loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas. The hair appears uniformly sparse. Regrowth is usual with successful treatment of the thyroid disorder, though it will take several months and may be incomplete.
While biotin is added to some shampoos that claim to reduce hair loss, there is no evidence that this works. Consuming foods rich in healthy vitamins and minerals will help with overall hair health.
Another supplement to watch out for is biotin. It's commonly taken for its hair, skin, and nail benefits. Biotin doesn't interfere with thyroid medication, but it can interfere with a thyroid blood test. Stop taking biotin at least 2 days before doing a TSH blood test.
Biotin can interfere with results of many assays and must be stopped 2 full days before any blood test. Failure to do so could lead to false results and trigger the clinician to order unnecessary (and potentially harmful) medications. 1) Biotin interference on TSH and free thyroid hormone measurement. Kwok JS, et al.
Studies have shown Biotin, even in low doses, can interfere with diagnostic blood tests leading to both false negatives and false positives. That's why it's important to let your healthcare provider know about any supplements you're taking, including Biotin, before you have any tests done.
Takeaway. Your body makes enough biotin on its own through your dietary intake each day. Therefore, you shouldn't take biotin supplements unless directed by your doctor. There are some rare health conditions that can cause some people to need biotin supplements on a regular basis.
Can biotin be harmful? Biotin has not been shown to cause any harm. However, supplements that contain biotin above recommended amounts may cause false results in some lab tests, including those that measure levels of certain hormones, like thyroid hormone.
Research shows that biotin improves hair health — including shine, volume, and scalp coverage in women who experience thinning hair. Research also shows that biotin helps improve skin's hydration, smoothness, and appearance.
HealthDay News — Biotin, which is included in many hair, skin, and nail growth over-the-counter products, can affect multiple hormone levels, according to a case study published online May 10 in the Journal of the Endocrine Society.
No, there is no evidence to suggest taking biotin supplements can lead to weight gain. In fact, biotin is sometimes touted as a weight-loss supplement. However, there is no research to support this use.
Avocados aren't just a party staple; they're also loaded with healthy thyroid nutrients. Avocados are a great source of monounsaturated fat and antioxidants, which our thyroids need to keep up with the rest of our bodies.
Apples, pears, plums and citrus fruits are abundant with pectins, which help with detoxifying the body of mercury – one of the most critical metals that have been connected to thyroid problems.
Vitamin A. Vitamin A regulates thyroid hormone metabolism and inhibits thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Researchers in a 2017 review highlight the critical role vitamin A plays in thyroid function. For example, deficiency in vitamin A can worsen thyroid disorders that have happened due to iodine deficiency.