Thyroid Health
Our thyroid plays an important role in SO many areas of our health 〰️ metabolism, energy, hormonal balance, fertility 〰️ the list goes on.
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While thyroid dysfunction can include an overactive thyroid (known as hyperthyroidism), it is an under-active thyroid (or hypothyroidism) that is most commonly seen. Symptoms of an under-active thyroid include:
〰️ fatigue
〰️ poor concentration or brain fog
〰️ weight gain or difficulty shifting weight
〰️ cold hands & feet
〰️ infertility
〰️ brittle nails
〰️ constipation
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When investigating thyroid function, TSH alone isn’t enough to tell us exactly what’s going on with the thyroid. Further testing is absolutely necessary, and may include testing T3, T4 & thyroid antibodies.
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While guidance from a practitioner is important for treating thyroid conditions, incorporating food sources of the following can be supportive of thyroid health & function:
〰️ zinc - pumpkin seeds, oysters, grass fed beef, legumes
〰️ selenium - 3 organic Brazil nuts daily
〰️ iodine - seafood, dulse flakes
〰️ magnesium - dark leafy green vegetables, cacao, almonds
〰️ tyrosine - animal protein
Managing stress is also an important part of supporting optimal thyroid function, as the thyroid is very sensitive to stress! This might look like gentle movement, time in nature, deep belly breathing, mindfulness or journalling. It is important to prioritise these practices in you week, and make them non-negotiable.
Herbal medicine can be particularly effective for thyroid function, helping to boost thyroid hormones and lower thyroid antibodies present in Hashimoto’s. Tailored herbal treatment from your Naturopath can form part of treatment for thyroid conditions.
