Selenium for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:
Toulis KA performed a systematic review and a meta-analysis in the use of selenium in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In 4 studies, selenium taken over a period of 3 months resulted in significant reduction in thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies, and 3 studies showed subjects had an improved mood and/or started to feel better in general. (12)
Selenium for Graves’ disease:
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder resulting in hyperthyroidism and symptoms of bulging eyes or Graves’ ophthalmopathy. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, selenium at a dose of 100 mcg oral twice per day taken for 6 months was found to improve quality of life, was associated with less eye involvement and slowed progression better than placebo and pentoxifylline. (13)