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Get to know your Thyroid!

January 14, 2025

Thyroid_GlandWhat is the thyroid?

 

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck under the skin. It is a crucial part of the endocrine system that produces and secretes hormones which mainly control the body’s metabolic rate. The overall function includes energy and fluid metabolism, appetite regulation, weight control and regulation of body temperature.

 

 

 

 

 

What are the thyroid hormones?

 

The thyroid produces the following hormones:

  • Thyroxine (T4): This is the primary hormone that the thyroid makes and releases. However, it is the inactive form of thyroid hormone and needs to be converted to T3 before having an effect on the body’s metabolism.
  • Thiiodothyronine (T3): The thyroid gland produces a lesser amount of T3, but it has a much greater effect than T4 being the active form of thyroid hormone.
  • Reverse triiodothyronine (RT3): The thyroid also makes a small amount of RT3 which can reverse the effects of T3.
  • Calcitonin: This hormone also comes from the thyroid gland which helps regulate calcium levels in the blood.

 

Thyroid_HormonesThyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and its effect on the thyroid gland

 

Thyroid stimulating hormone produced in the anterior pituitary gland stimulates the thyroid to make and release thyroid hormones. It is the primary hormone being tested in the blood to provide an overall indication of an individual’s thyroid function.

 

How is the result interpreted within conventional medicine?

 

  • High TSH or Hypothyroidism: TSH is elevated in response to low serum levels of thyroid hormone or in other words, to an under active thyroid. The increase in TSH is to prompt the thyroid gland to release more thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism may be a result of iodine deficiency, autoimmune Hashimoto’s disease, thyroiditis, surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid, pituitary dysfunction or medication.
  • Low TSH or Hyperthyroidism: Reduced levels of TSH are seen in a thyroid gland that is overactive and producing large amounts of thyroid hormone. Possible causes of hyperthyroidism include autoimmune Grave’s disease, thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, high iodine, medication or again pituitary dysfunction.

 

What are the common symptoms of hyper- and hypothyroidism?

 

Hyperthyroidism:

1. Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite
2. Fast or irregular heart rate
3. Nervousness, irritability and sleep disturbance
4. Heat intolerance
5. Hand tremor and muscle weakness
6. Frequent bowel movement
7. Irregular menstrual cycle
8. An enlargement in the neck (goitre)

 

Hypothyroidism:

1. Weight gain
2. Fatigue and/or low mood
3. Cold intolerance
4. Joint and muscle pain
5. Slow heart rate
6. Irregular menstrual cycle

 

Chinese Medicine ThyroidHow do we view thyroid dysfunction in Chinese medicine?

 

In general, changes in TSH and thyroid hormone levels tell us about the function of body’s Qi and Yang as well as the state of Blood and Yin in the Chong and Ren Mai (energy vessels). A disease of the thyroid gland may also indicate imbalances within the Heart, Spleen, Liver and/or Kidney organ system.

 

How may thyroid issues affect fertility?

 

Thyroid dysfunction or unregulated thyroid hormone is frequently associated with female infertility in which the woman may present with menstrual irregularities, altered ovulatory function and higher miscarriage rates. It is therefore vital to address any underlying thyroid issues, particularly if a woman is planning to conceive.

 

Helpful tips on lifestyle and dietary changes which could help the thyroid:

 

  • Staying active with regular exercise is beneficial for the body’s metabolism and helps the thyroid to function optimally.
  • Stress can disrupt your thyroid. Stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga help to lower the stress hormone levels and keep the thyroid in good shape. In addition, cacao has been found to regulate mood,
    promote thyroid function and decrease TSH.
  • Getting adequate sleep is essential for the health of your thyroid. An average of 7-9 hours of sleep is important so try to establish a good bedtime routine.
  • As a general rule, patients with any type of thyroid disharmony should avoid gluten, refined sugar and soy products. Raw brassicas and other foods that contain thyroid-disrupting goitrogens, can be mostly disabled by cooking. These foods
    should only be eaten in small amounts and never raw, such as broccoli, kale, turnip, mustard, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cassava, cabbage, pine nuts, pears, strawberries, peaches, spinach, bamboo shoots and sweet potato.

 

How can we help?

 

If you have any concerns about your thyroid health and experience any of the symptoms above including fertility issues, it is important to get it checked out. To assess the effects your thyroid has on your health and your fertility, you can book in a consultation.

 

The blog was written by Dr I-Li Ho.