The Thyroid Gland
If you suspect you have an underactive thyroid, or feel your hypothyroidism could be managed better, make an appointment with us today. We specialize in the use of Natural Desiccated Thyroid (NDT) medications such as: Nature Throid, Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid etc… We will also help those patients who are curious about switching from a synthetic medication to an NDT.
The thyroid gland is a small gland located in the neck, it plays a very big role in many of the body's functions, and can have a significant effect on one's overall well-being. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is under active, and not producing adequate levels of thyroid hormones. Certain factors can cause the thyroid gland to become under active such as: the aging process, autoimmune disorders, as well as certain foods and medications. When thyroid levels are low, it's detected within the brain and the pituitary gland releases thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which then stimulates the thyroid gland to produce both triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). T3 is considered the ‘primary hormone’ as it affects almost every physiological process in the body, including metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, mood and digestion.
COMMON SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
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Fatigue and decreased energy.
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Weight gain, difficult weight loss.
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Difficulty sleeping.
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Cold/temperature intolerance.
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Sad or depressive moods.
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Lack of focus "brain fog".
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Thinning hair.
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Dry skin.
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Constipation.
BENEFITS OF THYROID OPTIMIZATION
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Improve mood and mental cognitive function.
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Increase energy levels.
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Decrease cardiac risk factors.
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Weight control, and ability to burn fat.
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Improve cholesterol levels.
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Help alleviate joint and muscle aches.
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Healthier hair and skin.
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Improved digestion.
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Optimizing thyroid hormones has been shown to decrease cardiac risk factors, improve mood and mental cognitive function, increase energy levels, help alleviate joint and muscle aches. Adequate levels of T3 are also necessary for the body to metabolize and burn fat, making desired weight loss very difficult for individuals with under active thyroid glands. Thyroid hormone levels can be optimized by supplementing both T3 and T4. Usually a daily dose of a combination T3/T4 supplement or natural desiccated thyroid is preferred for elevating the thyroid hormones to appropriate levels. Commonly prescribed natural medications are Armour Thyroid and Nature Throid. Routine monitoring and blood work is recommended in order to appropriately manage thyroid hormone levels.
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There are many signs and symptoms associated with thyroid deficiency: weak, cold, tired, fatigued, thin hair, thin skin, thin nails, weight gain, increased body fat, loss of energy and motivation, loss of cognition, memory, mood, poor sense of well-being. Thankfully, managing thyroid levels can be a very effective and efficient process. If you feel you may have an issue with your thyroid gland, start by discussing your symptoms with a provider, and obtaining the proper lab work.