Thyroid Health

Do you suffer from - Chronic Fatigue, Feeling cold, Unexplained weight gain, Brain fog, Mood changes or Digestive upsets. All of these symptoms suggest that your thyroid function is impaired.

Let’s take a closer look at the thyroid, and why you might want to take steps to optimise your thyroid health.

What is the thyroid gland?

Your thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck. Although it is a small gland, it plays an essential role in your overall wellbeing.

What does the thyroid gland do?

The main function of the thyroid is to produce hormones. T3 and T4 are hormones that control your body’s metabolism, including heart rate, temperature, energy production and digestion.

The thyroid also produces another hormone, calcitonin, that regulates the levels of calcium and phosphate in the body.

What are the different types of thyroid disease?

There are several types of thyroid concerns, but there are three main ones to consider.

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, is the most common thyroid condition.

Hypothyroidism is often due to an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s, but it can also be caused by poor nutrition, high stress levels and medications. In some cases, low thyroid function can be a result of treating an overactive thyroid.

Hyperthyroidism is less common, but still a significant health concern.

Hyperthyroidism will usually be due to an autoimmune condition known as Grave’s disease. In some cases, inflammation or even cancer can cause the thyroid to produce too much T3 and T4.

Signs and Symptoms of Thyroid Conditions

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms (Hypothyroid)

• Fatigue / Exhaustion

• Weight Gain

• Hair Loss

• Always Cold

• Memory Loss

• Constipated

• Irregular or lack of Periods

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroid)

• Anxiety

• Rapid Heart Rate

• Weight Loss

• Excess Sweating

• Feeling Hot all the time

• Hunger

• Trouble Sleeping

• Puffy Eyes

Factors that can impact your thyroid health

The thyroid glad is sensitive and can be easily impacted by different factors. Some things to be mindful of include:

Stress – this can inhibit the conversion and activation of thyroid hormones, as well as depleting vital thyroid nutrients. Stress throws out the balance of other hormones throughout the body, which can affect the thyroid indirectly as well.

Poor diet – a diet that is low in thyroid supportive nutrients and high in processed, sugary foods can contribute to thyroid concerns. Gluten has also been shown to contribute to thyroid conditions.

Gut Health - Poor gut health can lead to poor nutrient uptake therefore leaving your thryoid lacking in essential nutrients such as selenium and iodine.

Autoimmunity – an autoimmune state is the most common cause of thyroid disease. If you already have one autoimmune condition, you’re at a higher risk of developing an autoimmune thyroid condition.

High goitrogen intake – Goitrogens are compounds found in everyday foods that can inhibit thyroid function. If you consume large amounts of unfermented soy or raw brassicas such as cabbage, broccoli, kale and cauliflower, your thyroid may be impaired.

Medication – some types of medication can cause damage to the thyroid. If you’re unsure, ask your GP whether any of your medications could contribute to thyroid concerns.

Inflammation – if your thyroid is vulnerable, any type of inflammation can lead to thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid. Inflammation can also contribute to flares in autoimmune thyroid conditions.

For futher assistace optimising your thyroid health you can contact me at naturopath@kyliesartori.com.au or book through my website.