Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a common yet often overlooked condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, plays a vital role in metabolism, energy production, brain function, digestion, and hormone regulation. When thyroid hormone levels drop, every system in the body slows down, leading to fatigue, weight gain, mood disturbances, and other symptoms that affect daily life.

At Caring for the Body, we take a comprehensive, root-cause approach to hypothyroidism, looking beyond standard lab tests to uncover underlying triggers such as nutrient deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, and hormonal imbalances. With personalized functional medicine strategies, we help restore thyroid function naturally and effectively.

The Role of the Thyroid in Hormonal Balance

The thyroid gland produces two key hormones:

• Triiodothyronine (T3) – The active form of thyroid hormone responsible for energy production and metabolism.
• Thyroxine (T4) – A precursor hormone that is converted into T3 for the body to use.

These hormones regulate:

• Metabolism & Weight Management
• Energy Levels & Fatigue Resistance
• Brain Function & Mental Clarity
• Heart Rate & Blood Pressure
• Digestion & Gut Health
• Hair, Skin, & Nail Growth

When thyroid hormone levels drop, all these functions slow down, leading to a wide range of symptoms.Symptoms of HypothyroidismHypothyroidism affects people differently, and symptoms often develop gradually.

Common signs include:

• Chronic Fatigue & Low Energy
• Unexplained Weight Gain (despite no changes in diet or exercise)
• Cold Sensitivity & Cold Hands/Feet
• Brain Fog & Poor Memory
• Depression, Anxiety & Mood Swings
• Hair Thinning, Dry Skin & Brittle Nails
• Constipation & Slow Digestion
• Muscle Weakness, Aches & Joint Pain
• Slow Heart Rate & Low Blood Pressure
• Swelling or Puffiness in the Face & Body
• Hoarseness or Throat Tightness

If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to more severe complications, including infertility, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.

‍Causes of Hypothyroidism

‍Several factors can contribute to thyroid dysfunction:

‍1. Autoimmune Thyroid Disease (Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis)

• The leading cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, reducing hormone production over time.

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

• The thyroid requires specific vitamins and minerals to function properly. Deficiencies in iodine, selenium, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins can impair hormone production.

3. Chronic Stress & High Cortisol

• Elevated stress hormones (cortisol) from chronic stress can suppress thyroid function and disrupt the conversion of T4 into active T3.

4. Gut Health & Inflammation

• Leaky gut, gut infections (SIBO, candida), and food sensitivities (gluten, dairy, soy) can trigger immune system dysfunction and contribute to thyroid inflammation.

5. Hormonal Imbalances

• The thyroid works closely with the adrenal glands, ovaries, and pancreas. Menopause, PCOS, estrogen dominance, and insulin resistance can impact thyroid hormone levels.

6. Exposure to Environmental Toxins

• Heavy metals, pesticides, plastics (BPA), and fluoride can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with thyroid hormone production.

7. Poor Liver Function & Detoxification Issues

• 60% of T4 is converted into active T3 in the liver. A sluggish liver due to toxins, alcohol, poor diet, or inflammation can slow this conversion.

Comprehensive Testing for Hypothyroidism

‍Many conventional thyroid tests only measure Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), but this approach misses critical imbalances.

At Caring for the Body, we perform comprehensive thyroid testing, which includes:

• TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) – Determines if the thyroid is underactive.
• Free T3 & Free T4 – Measures the active thyroid hormones available in the body.
• Reverse T3 (rT3) – Identifies if the body is producing an inactive form of thyroid hormone, which can block proper function.
• Thyroid Antibodies (TPO & TgAb) – Screens for autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease).
• Iodine, Selenium, Zinc, and Iron Levels – Checks for nutrient deficiencies affecting thyroid function.
• Cortisol & Adrenal Function Tests – Evaluates how stress is impacting the thyroid.
• Gut Health Markers – Determines if inflammation or gut imbalances are contributing to thyroid dysfunction.

A Functional Medicine Approach to Healing HypothyroidismRather than just prescribing thyroid medication, we take a root-cause approach to restoring thyroid function naturally.

‍1. Nutrition & Thyroid-Supporting Diet

• Increase iodine-rich foods: Seaweed, seafood, eggs
• Boost selenium intake: Brazil nuts, salmon, sunflower seeds
• Support liver detoxification: Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts)
• Reduce inflammatory foods: Gluten, dairy, soy, and processed sugars
• Stabilize blood sugar: Focus on protein, fiber, and healthy fats

2. Supplementation for Thyroid Health

• Iodine & Selenium – Essential for thyroid hormone production
• Zinc & Iron – Supports metabolism and immune function
• Vitamin D – Helps regulate the immune system
• B Vitamins (B12, B6, Folate) – Supports energy production & nerve function
• Adaptogenic Herbs (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola) – Helps balance stress hormones & thyroid function

3. Gut & Immune System Healing

• Probiotics & Prebiotics – Restore gut microbiome health
• Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Eliminating gluten, dairy, and processed foods
• Healing Leaky Gut – Using L-glutamine, collagen, and digestive enzymes

4. Stress Reduction & Adrenal Support

• Meditation, breathwork & yoga – Lowers cortisol levels
• Adequate sleep – Helps reset hormonal rhythms
• Magnesium supplementation – Supports relaxation and adrenal function

5. Detoxification & Environmental Toxin Reduction

• Filter drinking water – To remove fluoride & chlorine, which can impair thyroid function
• Avoid plastics & BPA – Endocrine disruptors found in food packaging
• Use natural personal care products – Reduce exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals

Integrating Thyroid Medication (If Needed)

‍For some individuals, thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be necessary. At Caring for the Body, we work with bioidentical and natural thyroid options, including:

• Natural Desiccated Thyroid (NDT) Medications (e.g., Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid)
• T3-Only Therapy (for individuals with poor T4-to-T3 conversion)
• Compounded Thyroid Formulations (customized dosing based on your needs)

Our goal is to optimize medication alongside lifestyle interventions for the best long-term results.Take Control of Your Thyroid Health TodayIf you’re struggling with fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, or other symptoms of hypothyroidism, don’t settle for incomplete answers.

At Caring for the Body, we offer comprehensive thyroid testing, personalized treatment plans, and holistic healing strategies to restore thyroid function and optimize overall well-being.Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward balanced hormones and renewed energy!