Your Thyroid has so much to do with everything
Do you suffer from any of these symptoms?
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Resistant weight loss
- Difficulty sleeping
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Feeling cold even in warm weather
- Muscle aches
- Depression
- Memory issues or brain fog
These symptoms can often point to hypothyroidism, a condition where an underactive thyroid fails to produce enough hormones to support your metabolism and energy levels.
I had a client who was dealing with these very issues. However, she was taking thyroid medication, yet her symptoms weren’t improving. It was frustrating and confusing—wasn’t the medication supposed to help? The truth is, while medications are essential, they aren’t always the full solution unless we look at the bigger picture.
The Importance of a Complete Thyroid Panel
Have you ever had a full thyroid panel? Many doctors focus solely on TSH, the hormone that signals the thyroid to produce hormones, but there’s so much more to consider. A complete thyroid panel includes:
- Total T4
- Free T4
- Total T3
- Free T3
- Reverse T3
- TPO antibodies (Thyroid Peroxidase)
- TGab antibodies (Thyroglobulin)
- TRab (Thyrotropin Receptor Antibodies)
By missing these additional tests, crucial information about your thyroid’s function might be overlooked. As a functional medicine health coach, I use this comprehensive approach to understand and address symptoms more effectively.
Support your Thyroid Health with Nutrients
Nutrition plays a big role in supporting thyroid health, and certain nutrients are essential for optimal thyroid function. Here are some key nutrients and food sources to consider:
- Selenium: Brazil nuts are an excellent source.
- Tyrosine: An amino acid found in protein sources like lean chicken and turkey.
- Iron: Dark leafy greens (for plant-based iron) and animal proteins (for heme iron, which is easier to absorb)
- Zinc: Found in seafood, beef, eggs, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas.
- Iodine: Seaweed and seafood, such as shrimp and crab.
- Antioxidants: Berries are an excellent source, and so is dark chocolate!
Beyond Medication: Holistic Thyroid Management
Managing thyroid health goes beyond medication. It is also important to focus on these key factors:
- Stress Reduction: High cortisol levels from stress can impact thyroid function, so managing stress is essential.
- Hydration: Proper hydration with electrolytes is vital for cellular and thyroid function.
- Sleep: Quality, restorative sleep is necessary for hormone production and overall health.
- Gut Health: Nutrients only work if they’re absorbed, so gut health is fundamental for effective thyroid support.
Take Action and Listen to Your Body
Symptoms are your body’s way of alerting you to issues that need attention. Ignoring them won’t make them go away. Addressing your health holistically can make a profound difference.
Ready to dive deeper into your health issues? Book a Free Discovery Session with me to explore how a comprehensive approach can support your thyroid health and overall well-being.
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