Slowing heartbeat, circulation, thinning hair, weight change, low energy levels , blood pressure, metabolism temperature, mental fogginess, low blood sugars, brittle nails, poor appetite, headaches, infertility, poor vision and memory, low libido, heavy periods, depression, high cholesterol…Phew! What a long list of symptoms for an underactive thyroid, and there are others! You may experience the same symptoms whether you thyroid is overactive or underactive, weight gain or weight loss being the biggest difference. The slower the body’s metabolism becomes, means the quicker you gain weight as the detox pathways also slow up and become very sluggish, leading to even more weight gain and tiredness.
Many people suffer from these undiagnosed and untreated for many years making life hard and feeling like no one understands, “What is wrong with me? I have had my thyroid tested and the doctor said it was fine”. This is true, as you may be borderline and if this is the case, you will be quoted as ‘normal’ as the testing levels are so wide It is important to note that the thyroid gland, which is situated in your throat beneath your Adam’s apple area produces hormones that affect every major organ and metabolism of every single cell and has a major influence on hormonal function. It is a major part of the endocrine system in the body and is very closely related to adrenal exhaustion.
The most important thyroid hormone is thyroxine (T4) which is converted to the active hormone (T3) Tri-iodothyronine. The more T3 you produce, the faster your metabolism. When you and your system are stressed, your adrenal glands work to control the effects of stress in the body. In doing this, it produces Cortisol hormone which prevents or interferes with the conversion of thyroid hormone T4 (Thyroxine) into the active form T3.(Tri-iodothyronine)..
Proper digestion is crucial in the absorption of tyrosine. Tyrosine is an amino acid (basically a component of protein). Protein is hard to digest the best of times, but as we age, our natural digestive juices decline. When stressed and so on, we find it even harder to digest. Chew your food thoroughly at all times, relax before eating to increase absorption and utilisation of nutrients. Ensure a wide selection of nutrients in your diet.
Regular exercise stimulates thyroid function. Start slowly and work your way up to 30 minutes at least three times per week. With an underactive thyroid, it is best to avoid smoking, caffeine, and soya products. Reduce stress levels, food intolerances, fluoride, and chlorine, as they can block iodine receptors in the thyroid. Useful foods are seaweed, for their rich sources of iodine, organic sea salt, essential fatty acids, manganese from pecan nuts, and almonds.
Very interesting article. I have been diagnosed with adrenal fatigue about a year half ago and am taking adrenal rebuilding supplements. in April of this year I was tested low for thyroid, I am NOT taking any medication for this. Can I take thyroxine as a supplement?
I am now taking bio-identical hormones for hormone replacement as I am in menopause.
JoAnne