Do you have symptoms of fatigue, depression, poor concentration, intolerance to cold, weight gain, constipation, muscle cramps, joint pain or vertigo? If so, you may be having issues with an under functioning thyroid gland (hypothyroid). The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the base of your neck. The thyroid releases hormones that control metabolism—the way your body uses energy. The thyroid’s hormones regulate body functions including: breathing, heart rate, central and peripheral nervous systems, body weight, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, body temperature, cholesterol levels and more. Thyroid gland function is measured conventionally by measuring TSH (thyrotropin stimulating hormone) using a blood test. The reference range for TSH is so large, that patients are often told that their thyroid is “fine”, meanwhile they are experiencing many of the above symptoms.
Some causes for thyroid gland dysfunction include family history of hypothyroidism, exposure to chemicals such as chlorine and fluorine, history of stress, exposure to heavy metals, pregnancy, excessive consumption of goitrogenic foods, and exposure to radiation of the head and neck.
Autoimmune illness (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) of the thyroid is a leading cause of hypothyroidism. It occurs because the body’s immune system creates an attack against the thyroid gland.
What to do if you suspect your thyroid is under functioning? Arrange with your naturopathic doctor or family doctor to do a comprehensive bloodwork assessment of your thyroid gland in addition to the TSH level. Discuss with your naturopathic doctor or family doctor your symptoms and measure your daily temperatures. Often a lowered temperature may also indicate thyroid abnormalities.
There are some preventive strategies that help optimize the function of the thyroid gland. The most important lifestyle factor that individuals can do to support thyroid function is exercise. Aerobic exercise stimulates the production of T3 (thyroid hormone) in the periphery. Aim to do aerobic exercise a minimum of three times per week. Avoid eating excessive amounts of goitrogens to also help support its function. These include broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower, and soy. Minimize exposure to toxins such as chlorine and fluorine by drinking filtered water and using filters on showerheads. Minimize external exposure to toxins and heavy metals by consuming an organic diet and a hypoallergenic diet.
The hormones the thyroid produces that are most critical to our health are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). The most popular thyroid drug, Levothyroxine (Synthroid), is a synthetic T4-only drug. T4 is a mostly inactive hormone and is the forerunner to T3. T3 is the predominant and active hormone which has the greatest effect on our health and metabolism. The human body is designed to convert T4 to T3, but many people have trouble with this conversion, mostly due to stress, hormonal and gut imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies. T4 medications (levothyroxine) are often prescribed, but many still complain of symptoms even when TSH lab results come back normal. What often works is a combination T4-T3 medication. This is available in preparations known as bioidentical T4-T3 or desiccated thyroid.
These natural hormones have been successfully used since the late 1800s and, after decades of the prevalence of T4-only prescriptions, are gaining popularity again. Naturopathic doctors that have successfully passed the Ontario Prescribing and Therapeutics Examination are able to prescribe bioidentical thyroid medications.
If you are tired of being told your thyroid is “fine” consider seeing a naturopathic doctor for more health options. Some people need thyroid medications to treat hypothyroidism. In some cases, medication is required indefinitely, especially when the condition has gone undiagnosed and the thyroid is no longer producing hormones. In other instances, nutritional supplements and dietary changes can improve your thyroid function. It is important to work with a qualified doctor to find what type of medication and dosage works best for you.
Disclaimer:
The information above is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult with your health care provider if this is suitable for you.
