Thyroid Health
Our topic this month is thyroid health. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located at the base of your neck. This gland produces thyroid hormones, Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are essential for every cell in your body and play an important role in metabolism. This means these hormones influence your energy, heart rate, body temperature, digestion, and mood.
Thyroid disorders occur when too little or too much of these hormones are produced. Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid is underactive. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, low mood, poor concentration/ brain fog, hair loss, constipation, and intolerance to cold. On the other hand, Hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid is overactive. Symptoms can include weight loss, heat intolerance, anxiety, heart palpitations, and loose stool. Underlying autoimmune conditions can be one of the causes of thyroid disorders. This occurs when the body creates antibodies that either attack or stimulate the thyroid gland. This is known as Hashimoto’s or Grave’s disease.
After a physical exam and reviewing symptoms, a diagnosis of a thyroid disorder is made by checking levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. The Doctors at Pathways to Natural Health order a complete thyroid hormone panel on screening bloodwork and look for optimal ranges to ensure the thyroid is working properly.
Management of thyroid disorders may include taking medications as prescribed and living a healthy lifestyle. Daily physical activity, peaceful sleep, eating a consistently balanced diet, managing stress, and minimizing environmental exposures are some ways to support this.
Nutrients for Thyroid Health:
Selenium
Selenium is a micronutrient that is necessary for the conversion of inactive T4 to active hormone T3. Some Selenium-rich foods include Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, fish, eggs, and animal protein.
Zinc
Zinc is required for the production of thyroid hormones and influences thyroid function. Studies have shown the benefit of using both Zinc and Selenium to improve overall thyroid function. Zinc is also important in maintaining a healthy immune system. Some food sources of zinc include shellfish, animal proteins, and nuts, to name a few.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays an essential role in maintaining bone, cardiovascular and metabolic health. It is a prohormone that also supports a healthy immune and nervous system. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with autoimmune conditions including Grave’s and Hashimoto’s disease. The Doctors at Pathways to Natural Health utilize both oral and intramuscular administrations of Vitamin D3 to optimize patients’ levels.
Magnesium
Magnesium is another nutrient necessary for the conversion of inactive T4 to active T3. Those with autoimmune thyroid conditions tend to have suboptimal levels of magnesium. Magnesium also plays a role in energy production and in reducing oxidative stress. There are many different forms of magnesium, talk with your health care provider to see which form is best for you.
Energy Boost IV
Our new Energy Boost IV contains an invigorating blend of minerals and B vitamins in a Lactated Ringer Solution making it an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help improve energy levels and restore nutrient status.
As always, the Doctors at Pathways to Natural Health are here to help you on your journey to wellness, which includes addressing the health of your thyroid.