Thyroid

The thyroid gland is one component of the endocrine system; it is located at the base of the throat just below the Adam’s apple. The primary function of the thyroid is the synthesis, storage and secretion of T4 and T3 hormones and controlling thyroid secretion. The hormones secreted by the thyroid affect nearly every cell in the body and control our metabolic rate. Thyroid hormones are essential for cell metabolism, healthy tissue growth and development. Thyroid imbalances are quite common today and the most frequently occurring conditions associated with the thyroid are known as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidisms (overactive thyroid).+ Read more >

People with hypothyroidism fail to produce an adequate amount of hormones possibly because the thyroid itself is not working properly or perhaps the thyroid is not receiving the signal from the brain to generate enough hormones. The most common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism are generally fatigue and sluggishness, weight gain, depression, fragile nails, dry skin and hair, insomnia, constipation etc. – if you experience any of these symptoms it is recommended you get your thyroid levels tested by your family physician or naturopathic doctor to rule out any thyroid health problems. If your thyroid lab results are within the norm speak to your practitioner and request to have your free T4 and T3 tested as well (health insurance might not cover this lab test since your TSH levels are within the norm but you can get it done if you pay for it yourself) since there is the possibility that your body might be unable to convert inactive T4 to T3. The most common cause for hypothyroidism is believed to be a deficiency in Vitamin A, B2, B3 & B6, C and E, zinc,  iodine and selenium (assists to convert T4 into T3) due to poor diet, or consuming foods grown in areas with iodine-poor soil.  High levels of mercury also have an effect on the thyroid because mercury displaces iodine. Thyroid problems can also be the cause of other underlying issues such as estrogen & progesterone or other hormonal imbalances, side-effects of certain medications, stress, sedentary lifestyle, to mention the most common ones.  Adding iodine thyroid support supplements may be beneficial and help to harmonize the thyroid gland.  Sea vegetables (bladderwack, kelp, and dulse) are an excellent source of calcium and can and can be consumed safely and easily added to meals. The amino acid L-tyrosine is used to make thyroid hormones; it is recommended to take it daily on an empty stomach twice a day - Add a high-quality multi-vitamin that contains a Vitamin B complex, Vitamin A, C & E and zinc that are essential for proper immune function. Vitamin B is especially important if you have a high-stress lifestyle, it is essential for digestion also enhances cellular oxygenation and energy. Hypothyroidism can be managed with the right thyroid support supplements and a modification of lifestyle and dietary habits can help to improve this condition over time. Increase your intake of iodine rich foods such as sea salts and sea vegetables. Avoid processed and refined foods, goitregenic fruits and vegetables (i.e.  pears, peaches, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, rutabaga, turnips mustard greens & kale) are best eaten in moderation because they may suppress thyroid function even more. If you experience severe symptoms remove these foods from your diet completely or cook them prior consumption, they lose their goitrogenic properties once cooked. On the other end of the scale is a condition called “hyperthyroidism” individuals with this condition produce too much thyroid hormones, although it is less common than hypothyroidism.  People with this condition experience symptoms such weight loss, excessive hunger, flushed skin, heart palpitations, increased blood pressure and heart rate, insomnia, nervousness, trembling hands, increased bowel movements etc. - to mention a few. An overactive thyroid can influence the balance of calcium, Vitamin A, D, E and K; therefore it is important to add a good quality multivitamin containing all of these vitamins to avoid deficiencies. Because of the increased metabolic rate caused by hypothyroidism you may want to add a super-high-potency multivitamin, especially one that contains Vitamin A, B’s, D, E (Vitamin E not to exceed 400IU because it may stimulate the thyroid gland) and vitamin K to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Essential fatty acids naturally found in fish and flax and hempseed oil is essential to balance glandular function.  Bugleweed is a thyroid support supplement which contains anti-thyroid properties – only small amounts are required to reduce thyroid function. Essential oils like geranium help to balance the thyroid gland; they can be used in the bath or mixed with carrier oils (i.e. apricot kernel, grapefruit seed or olive oil) and gently massaged into the skin. Herbal teas such as chamomile, passionflower and valerian help to create calmness and reduce nervousness in a person.  Alternative thyroid support supplements designed for an overactive thyroid gland can be very beneficial to those suffering from this condition. However one must not forget the importance of dietary and lifestyle habits and modifications.  A healthy well balanced diet whole food diet, low in saturated fats and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially the ones that have goitrogenic properties, which include: peaches, pears, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, mustard greens, kale, spinach, rutabaga and turnips, they help to suppress the thyroid hormone production. Limit your intake of refined and processed foods also the consumption of any type of stimulant (coffee, nicotine, alcohol and caffeinated teas) is to be avoided. Because digestive process speeds-up and malabsorption may occur, proper nutrition is very critical. Stress and poor stress management can lead to an increase of thyroid hormones; therefore it is important also to learn and practice effective stress-coping and relaxation techniques (i.e. meditation, visualization, yoga, breathing exercise or whatever you enjoy doing and makes you feel relaxed) to minimize the effect stress can have on the body.  Whether you experience “hyper-or-hypothyroidism” lifestyle modifications and thyroid support supplements from Body Energy Club can help you to balance your thyroid hormones and enhance your overall well-being. Before starting any new supplements it is important to check with your doctor to make sure they are right for you, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking prescription medications.+ Read less >