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A new study has found that a higher intake of total fat and specific fatty acids may be associated with a reduced risk of thyroid autoimmunity in men. The findings highlight the potential impact of dietary fats on thyroid health and reveal notable gender-specific effects.
The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, examined data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2007 to 2012. Researchers analyzed information from 7,913 adults aged 20 and older, assessing thyroid autoimmunity through the presence of antithyroid peroxidase (TPOAb) and antithyroglobulin (TgAb) antibodies. The seropositivity rates for these antibodies were 11.9% and 7.5%, respectively.
Findings from the study showed that men with higher dietary fat intake, including total fat, saturated fats, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), exhibited a lower likelihood of developing thyroid autoimmunity. Specifically, men consuming higher amounts of total fat had a 36% reduced risk of thyroid autoimmunity. Similar protective effects were observed for specific fatty acids such as octanoic and hexadecanoic acids.
However, this association was not observed in women, suggesting that dietary fat may influence thyroid health differently based on gender. The reasons behind this discrepancy remain unclear, and further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms.
While these findings provide valuable insights into the potential role of dietary fats in thyroid health, experts caution against making drastic dietary changes based solely on this study. Individual dietary needs vary, and it is important to consult healthcare professionals before modifying fat intake for health benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers are encouraged to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to their diet or treatment plans.
Source: Medscape
