Many of us have heard of the thyroid gland, but we often overlook it until health issues bring it into focus.
Located at the front of the neck and shaped like a small butterfly, the thyroid may be tiny, but its impact is anything but. It plays a powerful role in nearly every body function, influencing everything from energy levels to heart rate.
What is the Role of the Thyroid?
The thyroid produces thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which regulate metabolism—that is, how our body uses energy. It also controls temperature, heart rate, body weight, and even our mood. The thyroid also affects growth, development, digestion, and appetite, among many other tasks.
How Can I Know If My Health Issues Are Thyroid Related?
Symptoms of a malfunctioning thyroid are often very general and can be mistaken for other issues. That’s why it’s essential to visit a doctor who can order blood tests to assess your thyroid hormone levels. To help you know where to start, here are two common thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
- Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland doesn't produce enough hormones. Common symptoms include: fatigue, unexplained weight gain, dry skin and brittle hair, depression, trouble concentrating, feeling excessively cold, and irregular or heavy menstrual periods.
- Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, occurs when the gland produces too many hormones. Common symptoms include sudden weight loss, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, rapid or irregular heartbeat, heat intolerance, and trouble sleeping.
Once you have your test results, your doctor will recommend the appropriate treatment if necessary.
Natural Ways to Support Thyroid Health
Let’s be clear—not all thyroid problems can be prevented, but there are ways to support this small gland by maintaining certain habits.
- Prioritize Key Nutrients for the Thyroid
- Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production. Found in iodized salt, seafood, seaweed, and eggs.
- Selenium: Protects the thyroid from oxidative damage. Found in Brazil nuts, fish, and seeds.
- Zinc: Vital for thyroid function. Found in lean meats, legumes, and nuts.
- Reduce Sugar and Processed Foods
Sugar and processed foods increase inflammation in the body, which can worsen symptoms of a malfunctioning thyroid.
- Be Mindful of Certain Vegetables
Although eating fresh foods is crucial, pay attention to vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, arugula, watercress, radishes, and Brussels sprouts. While nutrient-rich and high in antioxidants, they may interfere with thyroid hormone production.
- Maintain Good Sleep Hygiene
Getting enough quality sleep is key to keeping the hormonal system balanced. Establish a regular sleep schedule, aiming for 7–8 hours a night.
- Avoid Chronic Stress
Managing stress is essential for thyroid function, as stress can cause hormone resistance. Try breathing techniques, meditation, or nature walks—whatever helps you relax.
- Reduce Exposure to Endocrine Disruptors
Recent research highlights the impact of toxins called endocrine disruptors on thyroid function, especially those found in plastics, pesticides, bottled water, canned goods, hygiene products, and cosmetics. Try to eliminate them and choose eco-friendly shampoos, creams, deodorants, and perfumes free of harmful chemicals.
- Exercise Regularly
One of the most effective ways to support not just the thyroid but the entire hormonal system is through physical activity. You don’t need an intense routine—moderate exercise three to five times a week helps with metabolism, mood, and stress management.
- Annual Checkups
These are crucial for preventing health issues or catching them early. Thyroid screenings are especially important if you have a family history of thyroid problems or notice swelling or a lump in your neck. Ask your doctor to include them in your routine blood tests.
- Consider Supplement Support
Studies show that elements like Iodine, Vitamin B12, Copper, Selenium, Zinc, and L-tyrosine are essential for proper thyroid function, regulating metabolism, energy, and other bodily processes. It’s not always easy to get enough through diet alone, so a high-quality supplement designed for thyroid support can help maintain a healthy gland, reduce fatigue, and address metabolic issues.
Keep in mind
The thyroid, though tiny, is crucial to our well-being. Follow these healthy lifestyle steps and pay attention to any changes or symptoms in your body, so you can take action in time and keep this vital gland in good shape.
Your Santo Remedio Team
References:
1.Alessandro Antonelli 1 , Silvia Martina Ferrari 2 , Alda Corrado 2 , Andrea Di Domenicantonio 2 , Poupak Fallahi 2ReviewAutoimmun Rev. 2015 Feb;14(2):174-80. doi: 10.1016/j.autrev.2014.10.016. Epub 2014 Oct 25. PMID: 25461470 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2014.10.016 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25461470/
2. Changhwan Ahn 1 , Eui-Bae Jeung 2Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Disease Endpoints Review Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Mar 10;24(6):5342. doi: 10.3390/ijms24065342. PMID: 36982431 PMCID: PMC10049097
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36982431/
3.Edoardo Guastamacchia 1 , Vito Angelo Giagulli, Brunella Licchelli, Vincenzo Triggiani Selenium and Iodine in Autoimmune Thyroiditis . 2015;15(4):288-92. doi: 10.2174/1871530315666150619094242. PMID: 26088475
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26088475/
