Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body. However, thyroid dysfunction is prevalent, and many people experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and brain fog due to imbalances in their thyroid hormones.
From a functional nutrition standpoint, it's essential to check all thyroid blood markers to get a comprehensive understanding of thyroid function.
This includes;
TSH,
free T4,
free T3,
reverse T3,
and thyroid antibodies.
Each of these markers provides valuable information about different aspects of thyroid function, allowing for more targeted and effective interventions.
Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction can vary depending on whether the thyroid is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism).
Here are some common symptoms associated with each condition:
Hyperthyroidism:
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Anxiety and irritability
- Weight loss despite increased appetite
- Difficulty sleeping
- Heat intolerance and increased sweating
- Tremors in the hands and fingers
- Frequent bowel movements
- Eye problems, such as bulging eyes or vision changes (Graves' disease)
Hypothyroidism:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Cold intolerance and decreased body temperature
- Constipation
- Dry skin and hair
- Hair loss
- Depression and cognitive impairment
- Menstrual irregularities
(It's important to note that some of these symptoms can be non-specific and may not necessarily be related to thyroid dysfunction. That's why it's important to consult with a healthcare provider if you're experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about your thyroid function.)
Whats the gut have to do with your thyroid?
From a functional nutrition approach, we acknowledge that the gut microbiome can impact the thyroid in multiple ways. Imbalances in gut bacteria can trigger inflammation and immune problems, potentially leading to thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune thyroid conditions. Additionally, the microbiome plays a role in metabolizing thyroid hormones, and disruptions in the microbiome can affect this process, impacting thyroid function. By addressing gut health and supporting the microbiome, we can aim to enhance thyroid health and overall well-being.
I hope this information is helpful!
A Functional Nutritionist, like myself, can help you with thyroid dysfunction by identifying imbalances in your thyroid hormone blood panel and creating a personalized nutrition and lifestyle plan to support optimal thyroid function. This may include dietary modifications, nutrient supplementation, stress management techniques, and other lifestyle changes. By addressing the root cause of thyroid dysfunction, I can help you to feel better and achieve optimal health and wellness.
About Mary
Mary Stein-Rosales is a formerly exhausted mom to five children (and wife to one very lucky man) who now helps other moms beat fatigue and get back to the lives they love.
After years of questioning her and her family’s health issues, she was unexpectedly inspired by a trip to the Bronx Botanical Gardens. Mary was intrigued that there might be remedies beyond what was suggested by her family’s medical team, and she wanted to learn more.
Mary’s curiosity led her to become a student again, and in 2019 she became a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner. She has also completed her certification in Mastering the Healing Arts of Gut Healing through The Restorative Wellness Solutions and is now a Restorative Wellness Practitioner.
Mary is also a Trauma Informed practitioner through the Trauma Healing Accelerated, taught by Aimie Apigian, MD, MS, MPH.
Her busy practice—I Deserve Health Nutritional Therapy—is focused on helping other families find solutions to their frustrating and sometimes debilitating medical needs.
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Along with her certification as an FNTP + RWP, Mary holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Education and Promotion and a Master’s of Science in Education from Lehman College City University of New York. For five years, she worked as a health educator with the renowned Medical Magnet Program, a medical preparation initiative that readies middle and high-schoolers for careers in medicine.
Mary now has the energy to pursue a vibrant life. She loves spending time with her family, including her two dogs York and Bristol, her two chickens Charazar and Autumn, learning aerial acrobatics, and creating remembrance jewelry for other moms who have lost babies from catastrophic uterine rupture.
If you’d like to work with Mary, you can schedule a free 20-minute discovery call here.
REFERENCES:
1. American Thyroid Association. (n.d.). Hypothyroidism (Underactive). https://www.thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/
2. American Thyroid Association. (n.d.). Hyperthyroidism (Overactive). https://www.thyroid.org/hyperthyroidism/
3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017). Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid). https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hypothyroidism
4. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperthyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20373659
5. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284
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