January marks Thyroid Awareness Month.  Hypothyroidism is frequently seen condition in my office, in this condition the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormone.  Thyroid hormone is one of the main players in running the body’s metabolism.     Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weakness, weight gain, dry hair & skin, hair loss, cold intolerance to name a few.  The severity of symptoms experienced can vary from patient to patient.

When the body notices that it doesn’t have adequate thyroid hormone available, it increases the producing of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).  TSH’s job is to tell the thyroid to make more thyroid hormone.  High levels of TSH can also cause the thyroid gland to become enlarged.

A simple blood test is required to diagnose hypothyroidism and it is completely treatable.

A Naturopathic doctor’s approach to hypothyroidism may include – B-vitamins, iodine, tyrosine, Coleus forskohlii, Fucus vesiculosus to help support the thyroid gland.  Your doctor may adjust your diet to decrease pro-inflammatory foods and increase foods rich in iodine.  Replacement thyroid hormone may be prescribed if needed.  Thyroid deficiency is common in the population and women are more likely to be diagnosed with hypothyroidism.  Consult with Dr. Mundeir if you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed above or if you believe that you may have an underactive thyroid.