Hypothyroidism-Caused-By-Systemic-Illness-Treat-Other-First
Natasha Klemm, ND, Guest Thyroid Nation
Dr. Klemm discusses that If you have hypothyroidism caused by stress or fatigue, you might consider other issues first.

The thyroid gland is responsible for our metabolism, controlling how quickly the body uses energy. It is one of the largest endocrine glands, comprised of two lobes and a bridge connecting them. It is located in the neck, below the “Adam’s apple”.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the body produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to weight loss, insomnia, anxiety and heat intolerance. Hypothyroidism is much more common, particularly in women. The low production or conversion of thyroid hormone leads to symptoms of fatigue, sleepiness, and weight gain. The fatigue can be so debilitating that individuals sleep for longer than 24 hours. When patients are fatigued, a blood test for Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is ordered. TSH, produced by the pituitary gland, controls thyroid hormone output. Its release causes the production and release of T4 by the thyroid gland, which is converted to the active thyroid hormone form, T3, by removing an iodine molecule. TSH and thyroid hormone have a negative feedback relationship. When thyroid hormone is low, TSH production and release is increased to stimulate production of T4, as is the case in hypothyroidism. If your thyroid hormone is too high, TSH drops as it is not needed to stimulate more T4 production. Standard laboratory tests describe a normal TSH range of 0.35-5.00 mIU/L. Naturopathic doctors see this range as being too wide for useful diagnosis of thyroid disease. Clinical experience demonstrates that a TSH above 2.5 mIU/L indicates a problem with thyroid hormone production as many patients experience hypothyroid symptoms even when their TSH is within normal limits.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms:

  • fatigue, loss of energy, sleepiness
  • weight gain, inability to lose weight
  • decreased appetite
  • cold intolerance
  • dry skin
  • hair loss
  • depression, emotional lability
  • impaired memory, difficulty concentrating
  • constipation
  • menstrual irregularities

Another concern about thyroid disease screening is that it measures only TSH, not T3, T4 or reverse T3. Although TSH can be in the normal range, T4 may be too high and T3 may be too low, indicating improper conversion to the active form. In addition, T4 may be converted to reverse T3, which is similar to T3, except the iodine has been removed from a different position, rendering it inactive. Reverse T3 is made in times of stress and systemic illness as a way to conserve energy. Without seeing all of these values, hypothyroidism can go undiagnosed.TNE-Brain-Awake-Pinterest-Banner Stress is also a factor in thyroid gland health. Under times of chronic and high stress, the production of cortisol requires tyrosine, an amino acid required for thyroid hormone production. Cortisol uses the body’s available tyrosine, leaving little for T4 production, leading to reduced thyroid function. Although hypothyroidism is common, medication may not always be the answer.

If the hypothyroidism is caused by a systemic illness, or the real culprit is chronic stress, these must be treated first.

In addition, there are key nutrients that support optimal thyroid function, such as zinc, copper, iron, selenium and B12. Furthermore, herbs can stimulate T4 production and the conversion to T3. Lastly, avoiding soy, almonds and Brassica vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts) is advisable for people with hypothyroidism as these foods can inhibit thyroid gland function. (cooked goitrogens are considered ok for Hypothyroidism) If you have been more fatigued lately and/or despite exercise and healthy eating are unable to lose weight, your thyroid function may be the reason.

About the Author

Natasha-Klemm-ND-profileDr. Natasha Klemm, ND, completed her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Manitoba. After discovering the powerful benefits of naturopathy, she enrolled at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). During her internship at CCNM, she was a member of the Adjunctive Cancer Care specialty team, where she worked closely with patients diagnosed with cancer, their family and oncologists.  She also interned at a community health clinic in downtown Toronto, where she gained experience in mental health diseases. Lastly, she volunteered and helped coordinate a 10-week weight loss and healthy lifestyle program. As a licensed naturopathic physician, Dr. Klemm ND is devoted to the prevention and treatment of disease using a holistic, and evidence-based approach to medicine. Using the principles of naturopathic medicine, she employs various natural modalities, including botanical medicine, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, acupuncture and counseling. Dr. Klemm ND promotes personal responsibility for health, emphasizing prevention as the best medicine and encouraging patients to be the healthiest they can be. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn. Check out her site at  DrKlemmND.net.

Questions or anything to add about hypothyroidism?  We want your thoughts in the comments section–Please! 

Help Thyroid Nation create awareness for thyroid disease and share the links and pictures below…