What you need to know about your thyroid

This little gland controls many of your body’s systems, so if it’s out of whack, your body and mind might be too. Here are the signs your thyroid might be off – and what to do if it is

The warning signs to watch for

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that sits at the base of the neck. It’s part of the endocrine system and produces hormones, the main ones being thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help control many of the body’s metabolic processes such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight.

THYROID ACTIVITY

This little gland may be small in stature, but it has a big impact on your wellbeing. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormone. It’s the most common disorder and it can go on for years without being detected. Symptoms include intolerance to cold, extreme fatigue, weight gain, poor memory, constipation, thinning hair and depression. Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid is overactive and produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include rapid weight loss, sensitivity to heat, anxiety, insomnia and an irregular heartbeat.

HOW COMMON IS IT?

Thyroid problems occur in about 10% of the population, mostly in people over 40 and in more women than men. It’s unclear why women are more susceptible than men, but a connection between female hormones and thyroid health is believed to play a role. If you’ve noticed changes in your body, talk to your doctor about a blood test to check your thyroid function.

THYROID HORMONES AT A GLANCE

TSH Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is released by the pituitary gland and tells the thyroid how much T4 and T3 to produce.

Screening TSH levels is the main way to check for thyroid issues.

T4 Made by your thyroid, T4 (thyroxine) is the primary hormone that helps regulate your body functions.

T 3 Along with T 4, T 3 (triio dot hyro nine) controls many of your body’s functions. Levels of T3 are checked to screen for hyperthyroidism.

CAUSES AND CARE

Autoimmune disorders (including Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease) can impact your thyroid and, indirectly, so can lifestyle factors such as stress and diet. Having a balanced diet is one of the most important things you can do to maintain a healthy thyroid. Follow a diet that is low in sugar but rich in healthy fats, lean meat and fatty fish such as salmon, with plenty of vegetables. Looking after your gut health is also a major factor in helping to keep thyroid functions on track.

THE ROLE OF IODINE

The thyroid requires a regular supply of iodine from your diet. It’s found in most foods, especially seafood and dairy products, and it’s often added to foods in the form of iodised salt. In Australia and New Zealand the salt used in commercially baked bread, except organic and bread mixes, must be iodised. Keep in mind you only need a little.

GOING FORWARD

If your thyroid hormone levels are o, there is good news. Although people who take medication may have to remain on it for life, some people with borderline hypothyroidism are able to come o meds without TSH levels (or symptoms) increasing. But everyone is dierent, so gather all your information and discuss what’s best for you with your doctor.

Where thyroid treatment is needed, many people explore an integrative approach, combining mainstream medicine and natural therapies

THYROID PROBLEMS CAN INVOLVE HOW IT FUNCTIONS OVER OR UNDER ACTIVE OR THE STRUCTURE OF THE GLAND ENLARGED OR INFLAMED

LIVING A GREAT LIFE INCLUDES A WORK AND PLAY BALANCE HEALTHY CHOICES AND TAKING CARE OF YOUR MIND AND BODY