The thyroid is a small gland located in the front of the neck below the voice box, which indirectly regulates every cell in our body. Millions experience hypothyroid (low thyroid) conditions typically resulting in weight gain, fatigue, endocrine imbalances, depression and cold sensitivities. Medical blood tests usually determine if a person is too low although diagnoses are frequently missed. Specific foods/supplements may benefit or hinder thyroid hormone conditions.
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Low Thyroid Functioning
Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland is defective in producing the thyroid hormones, thyroxin and/or triiodothyronine.Typical medical testing with a blood work-up is performed evaluating the TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and if the reading is high, it means the thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone. If the test reads too low it means that the pituitary gland is not stimulated adequately to produce thyroid hormones.
Holistic professionals rely more on saliva testing, morning basal morning temperature readings and an oral interview of specific symptoms.
Hashimotos's Disease is another hypothyroid condition which occurs when antibodies are formed preventing the thyroid to manufacture enough thyroid hormones.
Most Common Problems Associated with Low Thyroid
Metabolism is the most common issue associated with hypothyroid because without adequate thyroid hormones there is a decrease in the way nutrients are utilized, slowing metabolism and contributing to weight gain combined with feeling cold all the time. Hormonal systems may appear in the form of menstrual irregularities and miscarriage with women and low libido in men. The brain responds to a lack of thyroid hormones resulting in depression and fatigue. The cardiovascular system can be affected predisposing the body to atherosclerosis and cholesterol problems.
Other Issues Associated with Low Thyroid
Other symptoms may also be associated with a low thyroid but may overlap with other health conditions. Hypothyroidism may occur with extremely dry skin, coarse hair or even hair loss, thin nails with transverse grooves, constipation, muscle weakness and joint stiffness.
Foods that May Hinder Thyroid Function
Iodine deficiency is the most common nutrient leading to hypothyroid conditions. Iodine may not be absorbed because it may be depleted in commercial soils or may not be digested adequately from food sources especially with an aging population. Consuming excessive amounts of foods termed goitrogens may also inhibit iodine. Examples of goitrogens are turnips, cabbage, mustard, soy, peanuts, pine nuts, Brussels sprouts, kale, broccoli and mustard greens. If cooked and eaten moderately they may not be problematic.
Nutrients that May Benefit Hypothyroid
Holistic practitioners frequently suggest alternate supplements and nutrients that may support milder forms of low thyroid. Common nutrient sources are found in: Kelp or bladderwrack, seaweeds containing generous amounts of iodine and are usually taken in supplemental form (never exceed 600 milligrams a day), zinc, vitamin A, selenium, L-tryrosine and other vitamin B sources.
Diabetics and low thyroid individuals cannot always make the conversion from beta-carotene found in plant sources into vitamin A so it may have to be taken as a supplement.
Warning
Always consult a qualified health care provider before attempting alternative approaches to healing a health condition. Traditional Western medicine does not always validate the use of specific testing and supplements or foods to support thyroid function, which is frequently suggested by holistic professionals.
