NUTRITION IN THYROID DISEASES: A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

Thyroid diseases represent a significant global health burden, with complex etiologies influenced by genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. Emerging evidence highlights the pivotal role of nutrition not only in maintaining thyroid homeostasis but also in modulating disease risk, progression, and therapeutic outcomes. This systematic review critically examines the interplay between nutrition and thyroid function across a spectrum of disorders, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer. Special emphasis is placed on essential micronutrients—such as iodine, selenium, and vitamin D—and their mechanistic roles in thyroid hormone synthesis, immune regulation, and redox balance. In addition, the impact of dietary patterns, including the Mediterranean and gluten-free diets, is explored in relation to autoimmune modulation and metabolic control. Despite a growing body of research and promising clinical data, our analysis reveals a conspicuous lack of standardized nutritional guidelines for thyroid disease management. This gap underscores the need for evidence-based, individualized nutritional strategies. The accompanying meta-analysis aims to quantitatively assess the efficacy of specific nutritional interventions and inform future clinical practice. Together, these findings advocate for the integration of clinical nutrition into the multidisciplinary management of thyroid disorders and call for rigorous trials to establish unified, guideline-based recommendations.