Thyroid (Hyper/Hypo)

Balancing the thyroid gland and hormones are crucial in correcting poor health.  The thyroid is a small but major gland of the endocrine system located at the front of the neck.  It affects nearly every organ in the body and regulates fat and carbohydrate metabolism, cholesterol levels, body temperature, respiration, brain development, blood calcium levels, menstrual cycles, the heart and nervous system, skin health, and more.  In fact, thyroid issues are quite common and are particularly prevalent in women.  An underactive or overactive thyroid can have a significant impact on your health because the thyroid is the master gland of metabolism.

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is the most common thyroid condition and is typically caused by an autoimmune response known as Hashimoto’s disease or autoimmune thyroiditis.  Hypothyroidism essentially prevents the thyroid from releasing adequate levels of T3 and T4 hormones which are necessary for proper bodily function.  The lack of these hormones can cause metabolism to slow, sudden weight gain, constipation, fatigue, brittle nails, hair loss, dry skin, cold intolerance, and difficulty focusing.

Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, is another common thyroid condition that is most prevalent in the form of Graves’ disease.  An individual with Graves’ disease has an autoimmune response in the body that causes the thyroid to produce excessive levels of T3 and T4 hormones.  Having too much of these hormones can throw body functions off balance.  Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include: high blood pressure, restlessness, weight loss, rapid pulse and respiration, high basal metabolic activity, higher than normal body temperatures, diarrhea, etc.

Nutritional factors play a role in optimizing thyroid gland function and that’s where we come in.  Improving thyroid health involves a delicate balance of nutrients.  We can work in collaboration with your health care provider to determine and create the best individualized nutritional plan for your optimal thyroid health.  Generally speaking, vital nutrients essential to healthy thyroid function include a balance of iodine, vitamin D, selenium, vitamin B12, vitamin A, and vitamin C.  Getting sufficient exercise is also important in improving symptoms and can help stimulate regular production of thyroid hormones.  Thyroid disease presents particular challenges due to the associated cardiovascular risks, unwanted weight fluctuations, gastrointestinal issues, and the plethora of other unpleasant symptoms which can impede the development of healthful behaviors.  As nutritionists experienced with thyroid disease, we can help you focus on setting realistic goals for healthy and sustainable changes.

Our goal is to provide you with the support, guidance, and education that you need to improve your thyroid health.