The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, crucial for releasing hormones that regulate metabolism. It also affects:
- Body temperature
- Body weight
- Breathing
- Central and peripheral nervous systems
- Cholesterol levels
- Heart rate
- Menstrual cycles
- Muscle strength
Positioned at the throat's front and below the Adam's apple, the thyroid consists of two lobes linked by a tissue strip known as the isthmus. The gland measures about 2 inches across.
How does the thyroid function?
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the thyroid is a large ductless gland in the neck that secretes hormones essential for growth and development by influencing the metabolic rate.
Part of the endocrine system, which includes glands that produce, store, and release hormones into the bloodstream, the thyroid uses dietary iodine to create two vital hormones, T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine).
Thyroid hormone production is controlled by a feedback loop involving the thyroid, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland—two small but significant brain regions.
The synthesis of T3 and T4 is intricate, making thyroid issues relatively common.
Indicators of Thyroid Problems
An estimated 25 million Americans suffer from a thyroid condition, and about half of these individuals are unaware of their condition. Hypothyroidism, characterized by an underactive thyroid, represents 90% of all thyroid disorders.
Here are seven common symptoms of hypothyroidism:
1. Fatigue
The production of energy in our body necessitates a certain level of thyroid hormones. A significant reduction in hormone production can lead to lower energy levels, resulting in pronounced fatigue and weakness.
2. Weight Gain
A decrease in thyroid hormones can slow down the body's metabolic rate. As a result, fewer calories are burned, and less food is digested, which can make weight loss extremely challenging for thyroid patients without proper treatment, despite a healthy diet and exercise.
3. Recurring Sickness
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the most prevalent form of hypothyroidism, is an autoimmune disorder. A compromised immune system struggles to fend off viruses and bacteria, leading to more frequent illnesses. Alarmingly, Hashimoto's also prompts the immune system to attack healthy organs and tissues.
4. Loss of Coordination
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to peripheral nerve damage. These nerves transmit information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body, including the arms and legs. Nerve damage may result in numbness, pain, and tingling in the affected areas.
5. BRAIN FOG
The brain contains immune cells known as microglia, which make up 10-15% of all brain cells and are crucial for activating the body's immune defense within the central nervous system (CNS). Brain fog is often a result of brain inflammation, a consequence of irritated microglia cells. Symptoms include forgetfulness, lack of concentration, and reduced cognitive function.
6. ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION
Inflammation can also affect the brain, impairing mental sharpness and disrupting neurotransmitters. This disruption can exacerbate the brain's inherent anxiety response, increasing the likelihood of anxiety and depression.
7. SUBTLE SYMPTOMS
We may sense when our body is not right, and thyroid issues can cause a range of subtle but disruptive symptoms.
A brief overview includes mood swings, excessive sleepiness, muscle and joint pain (such as tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome), cold extremities, brittle nails, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, and neck swelling.
THYROID HEALTH MAINTENANCE
Understanding the significance of thyroid health is crucial, yet many people overlook the role of a healthy thyroid gland. Some are completely oblivious to the thyroid's function and its impact on health.
One example illustrating the critical nature of thyroid health is myxedema, a severe form of hypothyroidism. Although rare, it poses a serious threat to life when it manifests. Symptoms include low blood pressure, reduced respiration, decreased body temperature, lack of responsiveness, and in severe instances, coma. Myxedema can be fatal in extreme cases.
Dr. Amy Myers, a board-certified physician and Graves' disease survivor, recommends ten steps to enhance thyroid health:
- Ensure you're taking a high-quality multivitamin containing Iodine, Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin D, and B vitamins.
- Consider a tyrosine supplement, like the one from Thorne Research, to aid the FT4 to FT3 conversion.
- Adopt a gluten-free diet! If you have Hashimoto's, eliminate grains and legumes entirely.
- Manage stress and bolster your adrenal glands. The adrenals and thyroid work together. I suggest restorative yoga and adaptogenic herbs to help the adrenals manage stress.
- Aim for 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night.
- Consult a biological dentist to safely remove any amalgam fillings.
- Monitor your consumption of raw goitrogens, which is currently a debated topic.
- Eliminate fluoride, bromide, and chlorine from your diet and surroundings.
- Heal your gut. Optimal digestive system health is crucial.
- Seek a functional medicine doctor to conduct the necessary lab tests and assist in identifying the root cause of your thyroid imbalance.
- Including the proper amount of iodine in your diet is also beneficial.
- Foods high in iodine encompass sea vegetables, cranberries, yogurt, fish, eggs, whole grains, and raw dairy products.
Source:
www.powerofpositivity.com
