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NR1H2 (rs17373080) and Thyroid-Metabolic Health: What Your Genotype Means

The thyroid gland plays a central role in energy balance, metabolism, and hormonal health. NR1H2 encodes liver X receptor beta, a receptor that helps thyroid hormones influence liver function, fat metabolism, and energy production. Variations at the rs17373080 position of NR1H2 can change how effectively thyroid signaling supports metabolic processes, with potential downstream effects on weight, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol, menstrual cycles, and fertility.

How this gene affects health

  • NR1H2 supports thyroid hormone-driven activation of genes involved in fat burning and lipid handling in the liver.
  • Reduced NR1H2 activity can lower conversion of white fat to brown-like fat, reducing thermogenesis and energy expenditure.
  • Differences in receptor activity may modify insulin sensitivity and cholesterol metabolism, which influence overall metabolic and hormonal balance.
  • Because metabolic health interacts with reproductive hormones, NR1H2 variation can indirectly affect menstrual regularity and fertility.

Practical ways to support thyroid and metabolic health

Regardless of genotype, lifestyle can meaningfully influence metabolic outcomes. The steps below support healthy thyroid function, liver metabolism, and overall hormonal balance.

  • Balanced, nutrient-rich diet
    • Prioritize lean proteins (fish, poultry, legumes) and high-fiber vegetables and whole grains to support stable blood sugar and satiety.
    • Include sources of iodine (iodized salt, seaweed in moderation), selenium (brazil nuts, seafood), zinc (meat, shellfish, legumes), and iron as these nutrients are important for thyroid hormone synthesis and activation.
    • Choose healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, fatty fish) to support hormone production and lipid profiles.
    • Limit refined sugars and highly processed carbohydrates to reduce risk of weight gain and insulin resistance.
  • Exercise and physical activity
    • Combine aerobic activity with resistance training. Exercise increases metabolic rate, improves insulin sensitivity, and can enhance conversion of white to more metabolically active fat.
    • Aim for regular sessions each week tailored to your fitness level and health status.
  • Vitamin D and other supplements
    • Maintain adequate vitamin D status to support metabolic and immune health. Check vitamin D levels before starting supplements.
    • Consider selenium supplementation only if dietary intake is low or if blood tests show deficiency. Too much selenium can be harmful.
    • Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or supplements may support healthy lipid profiles and inflammation control.
    • Do not start new supplements without consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you take thyroid medication or have other health conditions.
  • Lifestyle factors
    • Prioritize sleep and stress management. Poor sleep and chronic stress worsen insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances.
    • Reduce exposure to environmental endocrine disruptors where possible—limit unnecessary plastic use, avoid certain pesticides, and choose personal care products with fewer synthetic chemicals.
    • Maintain a healthy body composition through sustainable nutrition and exercise practices.
  • Monitoring and medical follow-up
    • Routine screening: have your clinician check basic thyroid function tests (TSH, free T4, free T3) and, when indicated, thyroid antibodies to evaluate autoimmune thyroid disease.
    • Metabolic monitoring: fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, fasting lipid panel, and liver function tests can help track metabolic risk.
    • If you are trying to conceive or have menstrual irregularities, discuss targeted endocrine evaluation and fertility planning with your provider.

Genetic Interpretations

Two effect alleles (GG) — Increased impact on NR1H2 activity

You have two copies of the effect allele for rs17373080. This genotype is linked with decreased activity of liver X receptor beta, which may reduce how effectively thyroid hormones regulate liver fat metabolism and energy production.

  • Potential effects: higher genetic predisposition to weight gain and obesity, reduced thermogenesis (less conversion of white fat to energy-burning tissue), decreased insulin sensitivity, and altered cholesterol handling.
  • Health focus: emphasize weight management strategies, close monitoring of blood glucose and lipids, and consistent exercise to boost metabolic rate.
  • Diet and supplements: ensure adequate selenium and iodine from diet, consider vitamin D and omega-3s if levels are low, and limit refined carbohydrates and trans fats.
  • Monitoring: discuss regular thyroid function testing and metabolic labs with your clinician. If you have symptoms of hypothyroidism or metabolic syndrome, seek evaluation.
One effect allele (CG) — Moderate impact on NR1H2 activity

You carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with moderately decreased liver X receptor beta activity, which can subtly affect fat metabolism and energy regulation.

  • Potential effects: somewhat increased risk of weight gain, lower metabolic rate relative to some peers, possible influences on insulin sensitivity and cholesterol.
  • Health focus: prioritize balanced nutrition, regular activity including resistance training, and strategies to support metabolic flexibility such as consistent meal patterns and adequate protein intake.
  • Diet and supplements: include iodine and selenium rich foods, maintain healthy fat intake, and check vitamin D status. Reduce refined sugars.
  • Monitoring: periodic evaluation of thyroid hormones and routine metabolic labs can help detect and address early changes.
No effect alleles (CC) — Typical NR1H2 function

You have two copies of the non-effect allele. This is the most common genotype and is associated with typical NR1H2 function, supporting normal thyroid hormone signaling in the liver.

  • Potential effects: standard activity of receptor pathways that support healthy lipid handling, insulin sensitivity, and T3-driven fat activation.
  • Health focus: maintain current healthy habits. Continue balanced nutrition and regular exercise to support long-term metabolic and reproductive health.
  • Diet and supplements: keep eating selenium and iodine containing foods and maintain vitamin D. Monitor weight, sleep, and stress to support hormonal balance.
  • Monitoring: routine wellness checks including thyroid testing if symptoms arise, and metabolic labs as part of preventive care.

When to speak with your healthcare provider

  • If you experience persistent unexplained fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, irregular menstrual cycles, or fertility challenges, contact your clinician for evaluation.
  • If you start or stop thyroid medication, change supplements that affect thyroid function, or have a family history of thyroid disease, coordinate care with your provider.
  • Discuss personalized testing and interventions before beginning new supplements or making major diet or exercise changes.

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions and health. This content is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance, diagnosis, and treatment options. Use genetic information as one part of a broader conversation about your health.