Interaction Between Dietary Selenium and Zinc Intakes on Hypothyroidism

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hypothyroidism is a growing health concern.
• Dietary factors, including trace minerals, may influence thyroid function.
• Understanding the roles of selenium and zinc is crucial for prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between dietary selenium and zinc intake and hypothyroidism risk.
• To examine the interaction effect of selenium and zinc on hypothyroidism.
• To identify specific population subgroups where this interaction is most pronounced.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study using National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) data (2007-2012).
• Weighted logistic regression analyses to assess associations and interactions.
• Subgroup analyses by gender and body mass index (BMI).

Main Results:

• Low zinc intake was independently associated with a higher risk of new-onset hypothyroidism (OR=1.74, 95% CI: 1.05-2.90).
• A significant interaction between dietary selenium and zinc intake was observed for hypothyroidism risk (OR=5.99, 95% CI: 1.77-20.23).
• This interaction was particularly significant in women and overweight individuals.

Conclusions:

• Dietary zinc intake is independently associated with hypothyroidism risk.
• Combined dietary intake of selenium and zinc plays a significant role in hypothyroidism risk, especially in specific demographics.
• Optimizing dietary selenium and zinc intake may be a viable strategy for hypothyroidism prevention.