What are the key factors that affect thyroid function?
At first, you may barely notice the symptoms of hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) such as fatigue and weight gain. Or you may just put them down to getting older. But as metabolism continues to slow with low thyroid, you could develop symptoms like sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, thinning hair, brain fog and even lower mood. Nowadays low thyroid affects as many as one in five women.
The thyroid plays a key role in her overall health, energy and vitality. So what can we do to ensure it is functionally optimally?
Firstly, we need to understand that it’s the adrenals (i.e. the stress response) that control the thyroid. This is important to acknowledge because in many cases thyroid issues often stem from stress. High levels of cortisol can reduce the conversion of T4 to T3, which is essential to thyroid function. So if we don’t address our stress we could be missing the very reason why our thyroid isn’t on form. And no amount of thyroid medication will make this underlying problem go away. Stress really does impact every function of the body and since we all lead busy lives it is imperative to include regular calming/ restorative practices into our schedule. This also means getting enough sleep and nourishing your body to ensure blood sugar is regulated. You have to get the body our of that rushing, fight or flight state!
Next, we need to look if there are any deficiencies in the body.
To function optimally the thyroid needs these 2 key minerals: Selenium (think brazil nuts) and Iodine (found in sea vegetables). Without them the thyroid will not thrive. Other important nutrients include; B-vitamins, Iron, Zinc and Vitamin D, to name a few. Taking a good quality multivitamin can help cover the basics, however if you are deficient you will need focus on certain vitamins/ minerals to further support the body. Something like a specific daily thyroid support supplement could really help. But it is always best to work with a practitioner to guide you and I recommend testing your levels.
The thyroid is also sensitive to environmental toxicities.
In particular, heavy metals such as Mercury, Arsenic, Bromines and Cadmium can really throw thyroid function off. Yep, sounds way out there I know but these toxins are more common than you think. We are exposed to them things like processed foods, tap water and mercury amalgams. Other endocrine offenders include plastics, pesticides, synthetic skincare, fluoride and chlorine which all disrupt our lovely thyroid function (and our hormones in general!)
In a nutshell, for optimal thyroid function you need to:
- Get rid of toxicities in the body.
- Ensure you’re getting all the nutrients your thyroid need.
- Address stress, which is so important but often overlooked.
Worth mentioning too with the keto/ low carbohydrate craze…. Going too low carb can throw your thyroid off. A lack of carbohydrates can put stress on the thyroid as well as the adrenal glands, which is not ideal.
Be kind to your body… give it what it needs and remove what it doesn’t. This will allow it to function at its best. Remember, the body doesn’t mess up, there is always a reason why. And once we address this underlying root cause the body can begin to bring itself back into balance so you can look and feel amazing.
NOTE - When testing your thyroid markers be sure to include freeT3 and freeT4, not just your TSH. Ideally run a whole thyroid and blood panel with your doctor. Thyroid antibodies are also important to measure as high levels can be an indication of an autoimmune condition. If this is the case, then gut issues could be another factor to consider when it comes to your thyroid health.
The information provided is not intended to diagnose, cure or treat any illness and disease, rather to provide education and support. Please reach out to a medical doctor in case of medical emergencies or to check for pharmaceutical contradindications.
Artwork by Tina Maria Elena Bak