What is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck below the cartilage known as the Adam's apple. As part of the endocrine system, the thyroid produces two main hormones, Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3), which influence every cell in your body. From how your body metabolizes fats and carbohydrates to temperature regulation, heart rate, and even the production of protein- thyroid hormones are center stage.
Two primary problems occur with your thyroid – overproduction of thyroid hormones called hyperthyroidism, including Graves' disease, and underproduction of thyroid hormones called hypothyroidism, including Hashimoto's disease. Often, thyroid problems can be well managed when adequately diagnosed and treated.
Importance of Testing for Thyroid Hormones
Although symptoms of thyroid disorders can be apparent, it is vital to have hormone levels tested to ensure an accurate diagnosis. A simple blood test can check thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, and T4 levels. Another member of the endocrine system, the pituitary gland, regulates the thyroid, which makes TSH stimulate the thyroid to produce T3 and T4.
A disruption in either gland's hormones can have a cascade effect across the entire body. By testing the levels of these three incredibly essential hormones, Transform Your Health can identify imbalances and treat them before they become severe medical conditions.
Natural Treatment of Thyroid Hormone Imbalances
If you are diagnosed with a thyroid condition, the best approach is a natural one. We treat the whole person, not just the disease, and consider many aspects of your life and activities before determining what treatment will work best for you.
Some of the options we may consider include:
- Nutraceutical thyroid support
- Natural thyroid treatment, such as desiccated thyroid, NP thyroid, and Armour thyroid
- Diet and nutrition counseling
What Causes Thyroid Hormone Imbalances?
In some cases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Grave's disease, thyroid hormones are affected by autoimmune disorders. When this happens, the body begins to attack its own tissue, which ultimately leads to tissue death and the cessation of hormone production (Hashimoto's) or the overproduction of thyroid hormones (Graves' disease).
Endocrine disruptors (ED) are another common factor affecting thyroid health and hormone production. These chemicals are found in many of the products we use every day. Over time or if exposed in large amounts, they can lead to a wide range of issues, including hormone imbalances, cancers, tumors, congenital disabilities, and developmental disorders.
ED chemicals work by mimicking hormones and binding to hormone receptors; thereby interrupting normal hormone function by creating more or less powerful responses than the original hormones or changing the body's response entirely. Their impact is so powerful it is measured in ppt (parts per trillion). In other words, even minimal exposure to EDs can wreak havoc on your endocrine system and, consequently, your entire body. It is crucial to avoid them whenever and wherever possible.
Endocrine disruptors include:
- PCBs
- Flame retardants
- Dioxins
- Phytoestrogens
- Pesticides
- Perfluorinated chemicals
- Phthalates
- BPA
- UV filters
- Triclosan
- Perchlorate
- Parabens
- BHA and BHT
You may recognize some or all of these chemicals because they are frequently found in everyday items like cosmetics, soaps, foods, electronics, furniture, pesticides, and plastics, to name a few. We recommend reading the labels on the products you buy and avoiding these chemicals, especially in products you consume, use to cook, eat, drink with, or use on your skin, hair, and nails.
Overall, regular visits to your doctor’s office are crucial for ensuring that the thyroid therapy you are utilizing is safe, effective, and tailored to your individual needs. Your healthcare provider will work with you to optimize your hormone levels and improve your quality of life.
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