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T3, or triiodothyronine, is a hormone that affects many organs and tissues throughout the body, playing a key role in metabolism and protein synthesis. Reverse T3, a metabolically inactive form of the hormone, is the end product of T4 breakdown. Reverse T3 levels are an indication of both tissue supply and metabolism of T4. (source, source)
Low T3 reverse levels can be influenced by physiological factors related to thyroid function, particularly the conversion of thyroid hormones in organs like the liver and kidneys. From a nutritional standpoint, deficiencies in essential nutrients like iodine and zinc can also contribute to decreased T3 reverse levels. (source, source, source, source)
Prioritize foods high in isoflavones: Consumption of isoflavones has been shown to increase reverse T3 levels. (source) There are multiple mechanisms through which isoflavones influence thyroid hormone metabolism. Isoflavones activate the enzyme that converts thyroxine to reverse T3, and they inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down reverse T3, which leads to an accumulation of reverse T3 in the blood. (source) Recommendation: Consume at least one serving of isoflavone-rich foods daily.
One serving examples: Soybeans (¼ cup), Green Peas (1 cup)
Supplement with isoflavones: Supplementation with isoflavones has been shown to increase reverse T3 levels. (source) Isoflavones activate the enzyme that converts thyroxine to reverse T3, and they inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down reverse T3. (source) Supplementation with isoflavones increases reverse T3 concentrations. Recommendation: Supplement with at least 50 mg of isoflavones.
High T3 reverse levels can often be attributed to physiological factors affecting thyroid hormone metabolism, which involves the liver and kidneys. Nutritionally, excessive intake of certain nutrients such as iodine and selenium may also impact thyroid function and contribute to elevated T3 reverse levels. (source, source, source, source, source)
Limit foods high in isoflavones: Consumption of isoflavones has been shown to increase reverse T3 levels. (source) Isoflavones activate the enzyme that converts thyroxine to reverse T3, and they inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down reverse T3, which increases concentrations in the blood. (source) Limiting the consumption of isoflavones aids in regulating reverse T3 levels. Recommendation: Monitor and limit excess consumption of isoflavone-rich foods, like lentils, beans, and peas.
Avoid cold exposure: Cold exposure is associated with increased reverse T3. (source) Exposure to cold increases the activity of the enzyme responsible for converting T4 to reverse T3. (source, source) Avoiding cold exposure decreases reverse T3 concentrations. Recommendation: Limit exposure to cold temperatures.
