top of page

Levothyroxine and Bone Health: Understanding the Risks and How to Protect Yourself

Valerie Mendels, L.Ac.

Woman in exercise clothes stretching on the grass to support bone health while on levothyroxine medication.

If you’re taking levothyroxine for your thyroid, you might have been alarmed by recent headlines linking the medication to bone loss. It’s natural to feel concerned, but it’s important to know that correlation doesn’t always mean causation, and these studies don’t suggest you should stop your medication. Thyroid health is critical to your overall well-being, and stopping your medication—especially without your doctor’s recommendation—can lead to serious health issues, such as extreme fatigue, weight gain, depression, brain fog, and more.

Instead, the key is to continue managing your thyroid condition while taking proactive steps to support your bone health. Let’s explore what the research says and how you can stay strong and healthy.


Levothyroxine and Bone Loss: What the Research Says


Recent studies suggest a potential relationship between long-term levothyroxine use and bone density loss. For example, research presented at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting found that adults aged 65 and older taking levothyroxine experienced greater bone loss, even when their thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were within the normal range.

While these findings raise valid questions about Levothyroxine and bone health, it’s essential to remember that these studies show a correlation—not causation. Many factors, such as age, menopause, hormone changes, and underlying thyroid disease, can also affect bone density.


What About Other Thyroid Medications?


While this article focuses on levothyroxine (T4), it’s worth noting that other thyroid medications, such as liothyronine (T3) or combination therapies, are used in some cases to support thyroid health. Current research linking thyroid medication to bone loss has primarily focused on levothyroxine, so it’s unclear if other medications have similar effects. If you’re on a different thyroid medication, the same proactive bone health strategies outlined here are still important to follow.


How to Protect Your Bone Health

If you’re at risk for osteoporosis or have been prescribed levothyroxine long-term, here are key steps you can take to safeguard your bone health:


1. Regular Bone Density Testing


Monitoring your bone density is crucial for catching early signs of bone loss and preventing complications.


  • DEXA Scans: The gold standard for bone density measurement, typically focused on the spine and hip.

  • Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS): A radiation-free option, often used to screen bone health at the heel.

  • CT-based Bone Density Tests: Used in specialized cases for detailed imaging, though higher radiation exposure means they’re only done when necessary.


Talk to your doctor about how often you should have these tests, especially if you’re post-menopausal or have other risk factors for osteoporosis.


2. Bone-Supportive Supplements

Certain nutrients play a key role in building and maintaining strong bones. Focus on:


  • Calcium: Historically, many health guidelines recommended aiming for about twice as much calcium as magnesium (a 2:1 ratio). However, more recent insights show that many of us are deficient in magnesium, so an exact “2:1” ratio may not be ideal for everyone. It’s best to get your levels tested occasionally (e.g., serum or RBC magnesium) and adjust accordingly. Too much calcium relative to magnesium can contribute to issues like kidney stones or poor calcium absorption.

  • Magnesium: Magnesium is essential for calcium metabolism and bone structure, and deficiency is more common than you might think. If you’re found to be low in magnesium, your healthcare provider might recommend a ratio closer to 1:1 or higher in magnesium to help correct the imbalance.

  • Vitamin D: Helps your body absorb calcium effectively. Check your blood levels to determine your individual needs.

  • Vitamin K2: Ensures calcium is directed to your bones and not soft tissues like arteries.

  • Collagen: Supports the structure and flexibility of the bone matrix.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation that can contribute to bone loss.


3. Bone-Healthy Lifestyle Practices


  • Include Bone-Building Foods: Leafy greens, dairy, nuts, seeds, and sardines are excellent sources of bone-supportive nutrients.

  • Avoid Bone-Depleting Foods: Limit sodium, sugary drinks, excessive caffeine, and alcohol.

  • Exercise Regularly:

  • Weight-bearing activities: (e.g., walking, dancing) help strengthen bones.

  • Resistance training: builds muscle and improves bone density.

  • Balance exercises: (e.g., yoga, tai chi) reduce the risk of falls.


Functional Medicine Insights


Bone health is a complex process influenced by more than just calcium and vitamin D. A functional medicine approach emphasizes addressing underlying causes and creating a personalized plan for prevention and support:

  • Address Chronic Inflammation: Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts. Omega-3 supplements can also be beneficial.

  • Optimize Hormonal Health: Keep thyroid, estrogen, and testosterone levels within an optimal range, as hormonal imbalances can significantly affect bone health. If you suspect your hormones may be out of balance, consider discussing tests for thyroid function, sex hormones, and markers of inflammation, like C-reactive protein (CRP), with your healthcare provider.

  • Support Gut Health: A healthy gut improves nutrient absorption, including calcium and magnesium. Adding probiotics and gut-healing foods, such as bone broth, can make a difference.


Integrative Approaches from Classical Chinese Medicine


Chinese Medicine views bone health as closely connected to Kidney energy. Herbs like Eucommia, Drynaria, and Eclipta, amongst others, are traditionally used to nourish and support bones. These herbs should only be prescribed as part of a balanced formula tailored to your individual needs by a qualified Chinese Herbal Medicine practitioner. Book a session or a free discovery call with me to discuss a personalized herbal approach to support your bone health.


Staying Proactive About Bone Health


Bone health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, especially as we age. If you’re taking levothyroxine, are concerned about Levothyroxine and bone health, or are concerned about osteoporosis, taking small, proactive steps can go a long way toward reducing the risk of fractures and maintaining your strength. With the right combination of monitoring, supplements, and lifestyle practices, you can feel confident in supporting your bones for years to come.

コメント


コメント機能がオフになっています。
bottom of page