Thyroid Health

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland located at the front of the windpipe in the neck, and is responsible for regulating weight, body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate and reproductive hormones. Thyroid problems in Australia are very common, with around 60,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

 Hypothyroidism symptoms include:

●   depression/lack of motivation

●   difficulty concentrating

●   body fatigue, muscle aches and low energy

●   intolerance to cold

●   weight gain

●   dry, pale skin

●   hair loss

●   constipation

●   goitre

●   slow heart rate

●   low libido

●       hormonal issues including heavier, more frequent periods, annovulatory cycles, infertility, and increased risk of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Common causes of hypothyroidism:

1. High carb/low protein diets.

2. Nutritional deficiencies: zinc, selenium, iodine, vitamin D.

3. Toxicity from fluoride, bromide, chloride and heavy metals.

4. Gluten and other food intolerances, which may result in intestinal dysbiosis and increased gut permeability, leading to an immune reaction. 

5. Genetic predisposition.

6. Adrenal fatigue /stress.

7. Poor methylation/detox pathways.

Eating for thyroid health:

●      Goitrogenic foods prevent the utilisation of iodine needed to produce thyroid hormones, and include Brassica family veggies including kale, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, turnip and radishes, along with soybeans. Light steaming deactivates goitrogens.

Prioritise the following nutrients for production/conversion of thyroid hormones:

IODINE

●      Commonly low in Australian soil.

●      Sources: seaweed, saltwater fish, iodised salt, sea vegetables and dark green vegetables. 

SELENIUM

●      Sources: Brazil nuts, garlic, broccoli (must be steamed!), onions, meat, chicken, fish and eggs. 

TYROSINE

●      Sources: Almonds, beef, cheese, chicken, eggs, fish and soy beans.

ZINC

●      Sources: red meat, legumes, chicken, fish, oysters, nuts, sunflower and pumpkin seeds and ginger.

If you have a thyroid condition, or the above symptoms sound like you, get in touch to learn how naturopathy can help manage these conditions.