When it comes to subtle signs that something may be off with your thyroid, changes in weight often take center stage. If the scale starts to tip unexpectedly, it could be a signal from your thyroid gland.
For instance, a decrease in thyroid hormone production, known as hypothyroidism, can usher in uninvited weight gain. On the flip side, hyperthyroidism, where your thyroid goes into overdrive, might lead to unexpected weight loss accompanied by symptoms like heart palpitations and heightened anxiety.
Interestingly, the thyroid isn't just about weight—it's the conductor of your body's metabolic orchestra. When insulin resistance creeps in, causing your cells to become less responsive to insulin's cues, it can throw your thyroid off-kilter. This disruption can set the stage for metabolic complications, potentially impacting your overall health journey.
Is Thyroid Dysfunction Common? Moreover, elevated insulin levels in your bloodstream can up the ante for thyroid issues, possibly even raising the stakes for thyroid growth concerns and, in some cases, acting as a risk factor for thyroid cancer. It's a delicate dance between hormones and health, highlighting the intricate web of connections within our bodies.
When it comes to thyroid issues, the numbers might surprise you. Did you know that a staggering 60 to 70 percent of individuals with thyroid dysfunction are unaware of their condition? It's like a silent player in the health game, often going undetected until it starts to show noticeable symptoms.
For women, navigating the path to diagnosis can be especially challenging. The symptoms of thyroid dysfunction are often vague and easily brushed aside, leading to potential dismissal or even gaslighting from healthcare providers. This disparity is further highlighted by the fact that women are seven times more likely than men to experience thyroid dysfunction.
In the realm of thyroid troubles, Hashimoto's takes the lead among women in North America. This autoimmune condition, also fondly referred to as "Hashi's," sets off a chain reaction within the body.
Essentially, your immune system mistakenly identifies your thyroid as a threat and launches an attack, causing damage to thyroid cells and ultimately leading to decreased thyroid function over time.
What's intriguing yet concerning is the journey of metabolic health in our population. A study conducted at the University of North Carolina shed light on a startling statistic—88 percent of US adults are grappling with metabolic unhealthiness. It's a wake-up call to delve deeper into how our bodies are functioning and the intricate interplay of hormones, immunity, and overall wellness.
What are the Symptoms of Hypothyroid? Here are some questions to identify the symptoms of Hypothyroid:
• Have you noticed unexplained weight gain, especially around 20 pounds that just won't budge?
• Do you observe changes in your hair, nails, or skin such as hair loss (including eyebrows or eyelashes), dry skin, or brittle nails?
• Are you feeling unusually fatigued or sluggish, with slow speech or a hoarse voice, and have you noticed a slower heart rate?
• Do you experience lethargy, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or sluggish reflexes?
• Have you noticed any changes in your bowel movements, leaning towards constipation?
• Are you frequently cold or experiencing tingling in your hands or feet?
• Have you been more moody or noticed changes in your mood and mental state, including symptoms of depression or anxiety?
If you resonate with five or more of these symptoms, there's a good chance a thyroid issue is at play. Don't be discouraged if some doctors dismiss your concerns—stand firm and advocate for yourself. Even three or more symptoms could signal a thyroid problem, prompting you to request a thorough thyroid panel from your doctor, including tests for TSH, T3, and reverse T3.
While the standard TSH range per the American Thyroid Association is 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L, I often find that optimal thyroid function correlates with a TSH level of 0.3 to 1.5. Our goal for most patients is to maintain a TSH level of less than 2. It's all about understanding your body's signals and advocating for your optimal health.
Empowering Yourself: DIY Thyroid Checking Made Easy I'm a firm believer in self-empowerment, especially when it comes to your health. Did you know that a significant percentage—around 70%—of people with thyroid issues are unaware of it? This is where self-testing can be a game-changer, putting the reins of your health back into your hands.
Here's a simple way to check your thyroid at home using just a mirror and a glass of water. Position yourself close to a mirror and focus on the lower front area of your neck, right above the collarbones and below the voice box. This is where your thyroid gland sits, resembling a butterfly in shape.
Now, with your head tilted back, take a sip of water and swallow. As you do so, keep an eye on your neck in the mirror. Watch for any upward and downward movement of your thyroid gland as you swallow. Look out for bulges, protrusions, or any asymmetries in this area.
While there aren't strict guidelines on how often to perform this test, I recommend doing it roughly every six months, especially after reaching age 30.
Another great at home test is the basal body temperature test. Taking your basal body temperature can be a valuable indicator of hypothyroidism, as it reflects your body's metabolic rate. To measure your basal body temperature accurately, do it immediately upon waking, before getting out of bed or engaging in any activity. Use a basal thermometer, which is more sensitive and accurate for this purpose. Place the thermometer under your tongue for about five to ten minutes. A normal basal body temperature ranges between 97.8°F (36.5°C) and 98.2°F (36.8°C). Consistently low temperatures may suggest an underactive thyroid, indicating the need for further evaluation and testing for hypothyroidism.
Unveiling Common Thyroid Missteps: Avoiding These Pitfalls Let's dive into three common mistakes that could be impacting your thyroid health:
1.Iodine Imbalance: One major factor in thyroid woes is the delicate balance of iodine. Too little can throw your thyroid off track. Many people unknowingly are iodine deficient. Listen to the podcast episode I did with iodine expert Dr. David Brownstein.Why You Need Iodine for Hormones, Thyroid and More with Dr. David Brownstein 2.Low Carb Diets: While low-carb diets are popular for weight loss, extreme carb restriction can affect thyroid hormone levels, particularly reverse T3. This inactive thyroid hormone metabolite regulates metabolism by slowing it down to conserve energy. However, prolonged stress or severe calorie restriction can disrupt this balance, leading to increased reverse T3 levels and a sluggish metabolism.
3.Overlooking Insulin and Metabolic Health: Thyroid issues often coexist with insulin resistance, a common hormonal imbalance. Addressing both thyroid and insulin health is crucial for overall well-being. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of tackling these issues together to promote healing and balance.
4.Menopause: During menopause, the decrease in estrogen levels can disrupt thyroid function, leading to a slowdown in thyroid activity. Additionally, the decline in progesterone levels can also impact thyroid function. Estrogen and progesterone play essential roles in regulating thyroid hormone levels, and their reduction during menopause can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and changes in mood and energy levels. It's crucial for women experiencing menopause to be aware of these potential effects on thyroid health and to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.
By being mindful of these pitfalls and adopting a holistic approach to thyroid and overall health, you can navigate towards a healthier, balanced life.
Here’s what you can do when you experience the symptoms 1.Recognize Symptoms: Be aware of subtle signs like unexplained weight changes, hair and skin changes, fatigue, mood swings, and digestive issues that could indicate thyroid dysfunction.
2.Self-Assessment: Use a simple at-home thyroid check using a mirror and water to observe any bulges or asymmetries in the neck area, especially if you're over 30 and experiencing symptoms. Basal body temperature tracking is also a great tool in assessing thyroid function.
3.Advocate for Testing: If you resonate with multiple symptoms, request a comprehensive thyroid panel from your doctor, including tests for TSH, T3, and reverse T3, aiming for optimal TSH levels between 0.3 to 1.5.
4.Understand Thyroid Function: Educate yourself about the role of the thyroid gland in metabolic health and its connection to hormonal balance and overall wellness.
5.Seek Professional Guidance: While home tests can be empowering, consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and interpretation of thyroid tests, aiming for a holistic approach to thyroid and metabolic health.
6.Avoid Common Pitfalls: Be aware of iodine deficiency, extreme low-carb diets affecting thyroid hormone levels, menopause and overlooking insulin and metabolic health, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to nutrition, hormone replacement and lifestyle.
7.Holistic Approach: Embrace a holistic approach that addresses both thyroid health and overall well-being, focusing on personalized care, nutrition, stress management, and hormonal balance for optimal health outcomes.
These steps empower women to take control of their thyroid health, advocate for thorough testing and personalized care, and adopt a holistic approach to wellness. Are you ready to take charge of your thyroid health, advocate for comprehensive testing and personalized care, and embrace a holistic approach to wellness? Book a discovery call with Karen Martel Hormone Solutions today, and let's embark on a journey towards your optimal well-being together.BOOK HERE
For instance, a decrease in thyroid hormone production, known as hypothyroidism, can usher in uninvited weight gain. On the flip side, hyperthyroidism, where your thyroid goes into overdrive, might lead to unexpected weight loss accompanied by symptoms like heart palpitations and heightened anxiety.
Interestingly, the thyroid isn't just about weight—it's the conductor of your body's metabolic orchestra. When insulin resistance creeps in, causing your cells to become less responsive to insulin's cues, it can throw your thyroid off-kilter. This disruption can set the stage for metabolic complications, potentially impacting your overall health journey.
Is Thyroid Dysfunction Common? Moreover, elevated insulin levels in your bloodstream can up the ante for thyroid issues, possibly even raising the stakes for thyroid growth concerns and, in some cases, acting as a risk factor for thyroid cancer. It's a delicate dance between hormones and health, highlighting the intricate web of connections within our bodies.
When it comes to thyroid issues, the numbers might surprise you. Did you know that a staggering 60 to 70 percent of individuals with thyroid dysfunction are unaware of their condition? It's like a silent player in the health game, often going undetected until it starts to show noticeable symptoms.
For women, navigating the path to diagnosis can be especially challenging. The symptoms of thyroid dysfunction are often vague and easily brushed aside, leading to potential dismissal or even gaslighting from healthcare providers. This disparity is further highlighted by the fact that women are seven times more likely than men to experience thyroid dysfunction.
In the realm of thyroid troubles, Hashimoto's takes the lead among women in North America. This autoimmune condition, also fondly referred to as "Hashi's," sets off a chain reaction within the body.
Essentially, your immune system mistakenly identifies your thyroid as a threat and launches an attack, causing damage to thyroid cells and ultimately leading to decreased thyroid function over time.
What's intriguing yet concerning is the journey of metabolic health in our population. A study conducted at the University of North Carolina shed light on a startling statistic—88 percent of US adults are grappling with metabolic unhealthiness. It's a wake-up call to delve deeper into how our bodies are functioning and the intricate interplay of hormones, immunity, and overall wellness.
What are the Symptoms of Hypothyroid? Here are some questions to identify the symptoms of Hypothyroid:
• Have you noticed unexplained weight gain, especially around 20 pounds that just won't budge?
• Do you observe changes in your hair, nails, or skin such as hair loss (including eyebrows or eyelashes), dry skin, or brittle nails?
• Are you feeling unusually fatigued or sluggish, with slow speech or a hoarse voice, and have you noticed a slower heart rate?
• Do you experience lethargy, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or sluggish reflexes?
• Have you noticed any changes in your bowel movements, leaning towards constipation?
• Are you frequently cold or experiencing tingling in your hands or feet?
• Have you been more moody or noticed changes in your mood and mental state, including symptoms of depression or anxiety?
If you resonate with five or more of these symptoms, there's a good chance a thyroid issue is at play. Don't be discouraged if some doctors dismiss your concerns—stand firm and advocate for yourself. Even three or more symptoms could signal a thyroid problem, prompting you to request a thorough thyroid panel from your doctor, including tests for TSH, T3, and reverse T3.
While the standard TSH range per the American Thyroid Association is 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L, I often find that optimal thyroid function correlates with a TSH level of 0.3 to 1.5. Our goal for most patients is to maintain a TSH level of less than 2. It's all about understanding your body's signals and advocating for your optimal health.
Empowering Yourself: DIY Thyroid Checking Made Easy I'm a firm believer in self-empowerment, especially when it comes to your health. Did you know that a significant percentage—around 70%—of people with thyroid issues are unaware of it? This is where self-testing can be a game-changer, putting the reins of your health back into your hands.
Here's a simple way to check your thyroid at home using just a mirror and a glass of water. Position yourself close to a mirror and focus on the lower front area of your neck, right above the collarbones and below the voice box. This is where your thyroid gland sits, resembling a butterfly in shape.
Now, with your head tilted back, take a sip of water and swallow. As you do so, keep an eye on your neck in the mirror. Watch for any upward and downward movement of your thyroid gland as you swallow. Look out for bulges, protrusions, or any asymmetries in this area.
While there aren't strict guidelines on how often to perform this test, I recommend doing it roughly every six months, especially after reaching age 30.
Another great at home test is the basal body temperature test. Taking your basal body temperature can be a valuable indicator of hypothyroidism, as it reflects your body's metabolic rate. To measure your basal body temperature accurately, do it immediately upon waking, before getting out of bed or engaging in any activity. Use a basal thermometer, which is more sensitive and accurate for this purpose. Place the thermometer under your tongue for about five to ten minutes. A normal basal body temperature ranges between 97.8°F (36.5°C) and 98.2°F (36.8°C). Consistently low temperatures may suggest an underactive thyroid, indicating the need for further evaluation and testing for hypothyroidism.
Unveiling Common Thyroid Missteps: Avoiding These Pitfalls Let's dive into three common mistakes that could be impacting your thyroid health:
1.Iodine Imbalance: One major factor in thyroid woes is the delicate balance of iodine. Too little can throw your thyroid off track. Many people unknowingly are iodine deficient. Listen to the podcast episode I did with iodine expert Dr. David Brownstein.Why You Need Iodine for Hormones, Thyroid and More with Dr. David Brownstein 2.Low Carb Diets: While low-carb diets are popular for weight loss, extreme carb restriction can affect thyroid hormone levels, particularly reverse T3. This inactive thyroid hormone metabolite regulates metabolism by slowing it down to conserve energy. However, prolonged stress or severe calorie restriction can disrupt this balance, leading to increased reverse T3 levels and a sluggish metabolism.
3.Overlooking Insulin and Metabolic Health: Thyroid issues often coexist with insulin resistance, a common hormonal imbalance. Addressing both thyroid and insulin health is crucial for overall well-being. In my practice, I emphasize the importance of tackling these issues together to promote healing and balance.
4.Menopause: During menopause, the decrease in estrogen levels can disrupt thyroid function, leading to a slowdown in thyroid activity. Additionally, the decline in progesterone levels can also impact thyroid function. Estrogen and progesterone play essential roles in regulating thyroid hormone levels, and their reduction during menopause can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and changes in mood and energy levels. It's crucial for women experiencing menopause to be aware of these potential effects on thyroid health and to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.
By being mindful of these pitfalls and adopting a holistic approach to thyroid and overall health, you can navigate towards a healthier, balanced life.
Here’s what you can do when you experience the symptoms 1.Recognize Symptoms: Be aware of subtle signs like unexplained weight changes, hair and skin changes, fatigue, mood swings, and digestive issues that could indicate thyroid dysfunction.
2.Self-Assessment: Use a simple at-home thyroid check using a mirror and water to observe any bulges or asymmetries in the neck area, especially if you're over 30 and experiencing symptoms. Basal body temperature tracking is also a great tool in assessing thyroid function.
3.Advocate for Testing: If you resonate with multiple symptoms, request a comprehensive thyroid panel from your doctor, including tests for TSH, T3, and reverse T3, aiming for optimal TSH levels between 0.3 to 1.5.
4.Understand Thyroid Function: Educate yourself about the role of the thyroid gland in metabolic health and its connection to hormonal balance and overall wellness.
5.Seek Professional Guidance: While home tests can be empowering, consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and interpretation of thyroid tests, aiming for a holistic approach to thyroid and metabolic health.
6.Avoid Common Pitfalls: Be aware of iodine deficiency, extreme low-carb diets affecting thyroid hormone levels, menopause and overlooking insulin and metabolic health, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach to nutrition, hormone replacement and lifestyle.
7.Holistic Approach: Embrace a holistic approach that addresses both thyroid health and overall well-being, focusing on personalized care, nutrition, stress management, and hormonal balance for optimal health outcomes.
These steps empower women to take control of their thyroid health, advocate for thorough testing and personalized care, and adopt a holistic approach to wellness. Are you ready to take charge of your thyroid health, advocate for comprehensive testing and personalized care, and embrace a holistic approach to wellness? Book a discovery call with Karen Martel Hormone Solutions today, and let's embark on a journey towards your optimal well-being together.BOOK HERE
