The Basics of HypoThyroid~Part 1
Updated: Oct 17, 2019
Today, so many people are dealing with under-active thyroids. Why? Join me in this 2 part post as I share with you what I have learned about this amazing gland. Disclaimer: This information is NOT intended to diagnose or treat. This post is for educational purposes only. Consult with your Health Care Provider if you suspect a thyroid health issue.
What is a thyroid?
The thyroid is a gland in the human body, located in the lower neck region. This hormone regulating, butterfly-shaped gland sits on the neck just below the larynx. An under-active thyroid is known as hypothyroidism, which results in the inability to produce enough T3 & T4 hormones.
What is the thyroid's functions? It produces 3 main Hormones:
- T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxin), and a calcium hormone
- It is the hormone of metabolism
- Increases energy
- Increases fat burning, and controls weight
- Increases heart rate
- Increases appetite
Hypo-Thyroid Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Inability to tolerate cold
- Slow heart rate
- Weight gain
- Fertility problems
- Muscle weakness
- Dry & scaly skin
- Yellow-orange coloration in the skin (particularly in the palms of the hands)
- Yellow bumps on the eyelids
- Recurrent infections
- Constipation
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slow speech
- Goiter
Note:
The advanced autoimmune (the body attacking itself) stage of Hypothyroidism is called Hashimoto’s disease. This is when there are lowered levels of thyroxin being secreted by the thyroid, and the thyroid is 'attacked', compromising its function. Inflammation is a common symptom of Hashimoto’s disease.
Identifying Possible Causes, Factors, & Triggers:
“Burn out”- Too much energy output and not enough restoration for the mind and body. You need adequate amounts of sleep, nourishment, movement, and hydration.
Hormone Sucker Diet! This is a diet that is comprised of caffeine, sugar, white carbohydrates, saturated fats, and processed foods. The body cannot optimally function with this type of fuel for long.
Chronic selenium deficiency.
Drinking chlorinated and fluoride based waters.
Plastics are a BIG culprit to hindering thyroid health. The heating of plastics releases the harmful chemicals within the plastic walls, which humans ingest.
Genetics. Seems to run in family, specifically parents to children.
Possible Spiritual Roots: Lack of nurturing particularly from a parent. Fear of being alone, self-rejection or guilt.
Bromides: These substances are a menace to the endocrine (hormone) system and are present all around us. Check out these listed sources and see if you consume Bromides. Bromides are found in:
Some over-the-counter medications & pesticide sprays for crops.
Foods such as: Commercial bread and baked goods (as a preservative and a bread/dough conditioner).
Personal care products: Hair dyes, many cosmetics, and body washes.
Bromine is also found in fire retardants used in carpets, mattresses, upholstery, and furniture and some medical equipment.
Helpful Resources:
Dr. Mark Starr’s book, “Hypothyroidism Type 2: The Epidemic” www.amazon.com/Hypothyroidism-Type-2-Epidemic-REVISED-ebook/dp/B004D4Y7W6
Dr. Ridha Arem’s book, “The Thyroid Solution” https://amzn.to/2CU8jrh
Dr. Axe’s Hypothyroid www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6t2IY9sUxA
Dr. Mercola, Hypothyroidism Symptoms & Treatments https://bit.ly/1jbp8OB
Lab Tests Online https://labtestsonline.org/conditions/thyroid-diseases
Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350289
I hope Part 1 of this post was enlightening! Stay tuned for Part 2, where I will discuss natural care options for thyroid support.
In Grace~
Cara