Despite its small size, the thyroid gland has a huge job: to produce hormones that regulate metabolism, or the rate at which cells convert food and other substances into energy. Thyroid hormones influence every cell, tissue and organ, so when the gland isn't working properly, your whole body feels it…Research from the Mayo Clinic suggests over-the-counter "thyroid support" pills (commonly used for weight loss and to fight fatigue) are mostly ineffective. The study analyzed 10 thyroid supplements and found all but one contained amounts of two thyroid hormones intended only for prescription drugs because they can cause increased heart rate, palpitations and diarrhea.

USA Today, 1/17/2012

Tags: Research