Thyroid Medication and Your Bone Health: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Connection Between Levothyroxine and Bone Health
Over the past four years, I have answered many questions about medication from the women in my Strong Women, Strong Bones group. One of the medications that hasn’t been brought up until this past month is levothyroxine, which you may know as Synthroid.
If you are one of the millions of women taking levothyroxine, you may be wondering how it affects your bone density—especially if you already have osteopenia or osteoporosis. A recent study which has been showing up in multiple magazines and online columns, suggests a potential link between thyroid medication and bone loss.
Let’s take a few minutes to go over the study and hopefully help you make informed decisions about your health.
Key Findings from Recent Research
What the Studies Show 📊
A 2024 study presented at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) found that adults over 65 taking thyroid medication experienced greater bone loss than those not taking it.
Bone loss occurred even when thyroid levels appeared normal in blood tests.
Higher doses of levothyroxine correlated with an increased risk of osteoporosis-related fractures.
What This Means for You
If you have osteoporosis or osteopenia and take levothyroxine, don’t panic—there are proactive steps you can take. Balancing your thyroid health with strategies to support bone strength is key.
How to Protect Your Bones While Taking Thyroid Medication 🏋️♀️
1. Exercise for Stronger Bones
Weight-bearing and resistance exercises can help counteract bone loss. Consider adding:
Strength training (dumbbells, kettlebells, bodyweight exercises)
Weight-bearing cardio (brisk walking, hiking, dancing)
Balance exercises (yoga, tai chi, dancing) to prevent falls and learn to fall without injury
2. Prioritize Bone-Boosting Nutrition
What you eat is key to maintaining bone density. Focus on these nutrients:
Calcium-Rich Foods 🥛
Dairy: Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese
Non-Dairy: Sardines with bones, tofu, kale and collards
Fortified Foods: Plant-based milks, cereals, orange juice
Vitamin D Sources ☀️
Food: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, fortified cereals
Sunlight: 15-20 minutes of sun exposure per day (check with your dermatologist for your personal specifics)
Supplements: You may benefit from a vitamin D supplement —have your Vitamin D levels checked and discuss with your healthcare provider rather than self-supplement.
3. Smart Supplement & Medication Timing
Pair vitamin D-rich foods with healthy fats (like avocado or olive oil) to enhance absorption.
Monitor your bone density regularly—get a baseline DEXA scan if you haven’t had one already; taking Synthroid can now be considered a risk factor if you need to make a case for getting your first DEXA before age 65.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor 📋
Should I adjust my thyroid medication dosage to protect my bones?
How often should I schedule a bone density scan?
Do I need additional supplements for bone health?
Stay Informed & Supported 💙
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Join our Strong Women, Strong Bones community for expert guidance and exercise recommendations.
🔹 Visit www.andreatrombley.com for more resources and to get on the waitlist for the next Jumpstart.
📩 Have questions? Drop them in the comments! Let’s support each other in building stronger bones and healthier lives.
References
Ghotbi E, Ibad H, Xue Q, Mammen J, Demehri S. Levothyroxine use and bone loss in euthyroid older adults: a longitudinal analysis from Baltimore longitudinal study of aging. Presented at: Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) 2024 110th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting; December 1-5, 2024; Chicago, IL.