Hypothyroidism (Underactive thyroid)

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that crosses the front of your windpipe. Thyroid hormones help control functions including how your heart beats and how your digestive system works.

Hypothyroidism occurs when there is low thyroid gland function. The pituitary gland produces Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) which is responsible for producing thyroid hormones when levels are low[i]. The two thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). In hypothyroidism, a blood test will likely show high levels of TSH but low levels of thyroid hormones[ii][iii].

Typical symptoms of hypothyroidism are[iv][v]:

• Fatigue
• Low mood
• Depression
• Menstrual irregularities
• Dry skin
• Headaches
• Weight gain
• Difficulty losing weight
• Hair loss
• Brittle nails and hair
• Muscle weakness
• Joint pain
• Memory issues
• Cold hands and feet

A common cause of hypothyroidism is iodine deficiency, which can also lead to an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)[vi]. Some foods can be goitrogenic such as brassica vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, kale and cauliflower). Cooking usually inactivates the goitrogens making them safe for most people to consume[vii].

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s, which is where antibodies bind to the thyroid and prevent it from making adequate amounts of thyroid hormones[viii].

Ensure to cook brassica foods (mentioned above) before eating them. The occasional bit of raw kale should be fine as it is in large amounts where is seems to become goitrogenic.

Iodine[ix]: in the right amount is key for thyroid support. Organic seaweed and iodised salt contain adequate amounts, in fact, seaweed has significant amounts so you want to be sure to have this no more than a couple of times a week as too much iodine can also suppress thyroid activity.

Selenium[x]: Having low levels of selenium is indicated in the pathogenesis of hypothyroidism, so getting adequate amounts in the diet or through supplementation is a useful preventative. Brazil nuts are the usual go-to for selenium. However, soil quality has been decreasing in recent years and so often does not offer adequate amounts anymore.

Exercise[xi]: is important for thyroid support as it stimulates thyroid gland secretion.

For autoimmune support, reducing or eliminating gluten from the diet should be considered as gluten can increase thyroid autoantibodies in some people.

Key nutrients: iodine, tyrosine, zinc, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C and selenium[xii].

A super greens formula will also help with energy and general bodily functions by improving oxygen uptake in cells.

• Thyroid Complex (60 Caps)
• Iodine & Tyrosine (60 Capsules)
• Selenium 200ug
• Kelp - Organic (90 caps)
• Trace Mineral Complex
• Adaptogen Complex 90 Capsules: This adaptogen complex contains Siberian ginseng, panax ginseng, mate tea, Damiana leaf and Suma root to support energy, stress and hormone levels. Gotu kola is a great adaptogenic herb that supports brain health, nerves, and mood[xiv] [xv]. P. ginseng is beneficial on the thyroid gland hormone production with good effect on the hypothyroidism[xiii].

Thyroid function: it is worth checking thyroid function, as this commonly changes around menopause. Thyroid function is also inextricably linked to reproductive health and hormone production and function. Usually testing for markers such as: TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), FT3 & FT, thyroid function tests can be sought privately or through your GP. Talk to us for further advice.