Thyroid is an endocrine gland that plays an important role in overall health and wellness. It releases hormones that affect metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, circulation, breathing, digestion, cholesterol levels, weight and other functions.
When thyroid is underactive (hypothyroid), it does not produce the required amounts of thyroid hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). Associated symptoms might be fatigue, weight gain, weakness, cold intolerance, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, menstrual abnormalities, and mood disorders.
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed by blood tests. Many physicians routinely monitor thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) as a part of routine bloodwork. The normal range for TSH is 0.4-4 mIU/L. However, many people will experience symptoms of hypothyroidism even if the TSH is in the normal range; therefore it is important to achieve not normal but optimal range for TSH, which is 0.4-2.5 mIU/L.
There are other tests that should be looked at to evaluate thyroid function thoroughly: free T3, reverse T3, free T4, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies, iodine, and zinc level. In addition, oral temperature monitoring can give a clinician valuable information about the thyroid’s capability of maintaining adequate metabolism. We look at the temperature as a part of diagnosis but it also helps us with optimization of the thyroid function. Hypothyroidism is typically treated with replacement of T3, T4 or both.
What can you do to ensure proper thyroid function?
First, avoid environmental toxins, such as pesticides, plastics, smoking, anti-bacterial soaps, fluoridated toothpaste, flame retardants, and toxic metals (lead, mercury) as much as possible. Radiation exposure through imaging studies, such as X-rays and CT scans and even some medications can damage thyroid as well. Next, look at your diet; be aware that certain foods when consumed in large amounts can negatively affect thyroid function. These include soy, and goitrogens such as raw cauliflower, broccoli, turnips, and Brussel sprouts. Thyroid requires several key nutrients for proper function. Along with adequate consumption of protein, we need iodine, B vitamins (especially B12 and B2), L-tyrosine, selenium, zinc, copper, iron, magnesium, and vitamins A, D, and C.
Learn More:
Thyroid Dysfunction and Heart Failure
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1993936/
Hypothyroidism and Vitamin D deficiency
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3921055/
Flame Retardants and Thyroid Cancer
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2017-04/tes-etc033117.php
