The thyroid is an important gland in the body that releases thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, which acts nearly on every organ in the body. Thyroid hormones influence the reproductive, cardiovascular, digestive, and nervous system along with skin, hair and nails. Thyroid hormones regulate the speed at which cells work. Optimal thyroid hormones ensure that all cells in the body are working when it needs to and resting appropriately. Hypothyroidism is decreased thyroid function, clinically determined by high thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and low levels of T3 and T4. Hyperthyroidism is a increased thyroid function, clinically diagnosed when thyroid stimulating hormone is low accompanied with high levels of T3 and T4 .

The signs and symptoms are the following:

Causes:

Thyroid issues can be due to numerous factors, like genetic susceptibility, stressors, environmental toxins, and autoimmune issues. Thyroid dysfunction is also implicated in many women’s disorders like PMS, infrequent menses, heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility.

“Don’t guess, let’s test to address!” – Dr. Swalah, ND

Treatment for thyroid disorders begins with additional lab testing to confirm and begin treatment. Dr. Swalah, ND does a full thyroid assessment, including TSH, T3, T4, reverse T3, and thyroid anti microsomal antibodies to determine the full clinical picture.

How can a naturopath help?

If thyroid hormones are not working optimally, Dr. Swalah utilizes evidence-based treatments, ranging from diet, supplementation, herbal support, and lifestyle changes to support the thyroid gland and thyroid hormones.

Diet:

Dr. Swalah, ND works with her patients to establish a diet plan that is sustainable and proven to be effective for thyroid dysfunction. The goal of therapy is to restore balance by increasing sea vegetables and natural iodine, increasing food sources of tyrosine – the building block of thyroid hormones, and decreasing foods that can increase the autoimmune response to hypothyroidism.

Nutriceuticals:

Certain nutrients, like tyrosine, selenium, B complex, fish oil and iodine have been effective in relieving symptoms of hypothyroidism.  Dr. Swalah supports the body’s natural healing mechanism and physiological function with the use of nutreucitcals that have been proven to be effective for people with thyroid disorders.

Botanical Medicine:

Herbs and botanical medicine are another important treatment option available for individuals with thyroid dysregulation. Plants and herbs have strong medicinal properties, for instance, ashwagandha is a popular herb known for stress management but is also effective in increasing levels of T4. Myrrh is also known for converting T4 to T3, the more active and bioavailable thyroid hormone.

Dr. Swalah, ND curates a customized treatment plan for her patients and believes in the potential of her patients to have a healthy life! To connect with her, click here: