Nutritional deficiencies in women and their impact on thyroid disorders

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones (TH), with a significantly higher prevalence in women. The pathophysiology of this condition is influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, including nutritional imbalances. Several micronutrients, such as iodine, iron, selenium, zinc, and vitamin D, play a key role in the synthesis, peripheral conversion, and action of TH. Women are more vulnerable to these deficiencies due to specific nutritional requirements, which increases their susceptibility to thyroid dysfunction, particularly during stages such as pregnancy or the postpartum period. Current evidence supports the assessment of nutritional status as a complement to conventional pharmacological treatment with levothyroxine (LT4), especially in women with subclinical hypothyroidism or autoimmune thyroid diseases. An appropriate nutritional intervention could play a crucial role in enhancing therapeutic response and improving disease management.