Thyroid Health
Thyroid conditions are extremely common, most frequently diagnosed in women age 30-50.
The thyroid plays a critical role in energy, weight management, hormonal balance, and the health of a pregnancy and baby. Optimal thyroid health is not just avoiding medication, but optimising the nutrients required to produce good levels of thyroid hormone.
Key Facts
- The optimal range for thyroid hormones such as free T4 and free T3 is not the same as the ‘normal range’. Particularly for pregnancy, it is very important to have optimal thyroid hormone levels to provide thyroid hormone for the developing foetus
- All thyroid hormones contain iodine as a fundamental component. Iodine deficiency is extremely common, especially without a national fortification scheme. Over-supplementing can be harmful, so testing and supplementing slowly and safely is recommended
- Iron deficiency can be an underlying cause for thyroid problems, especially common and underdiagnosed in women and adolescent girls.
- Selenium, magnesium and zinc are also important minerals for thyroid function
- Optimal nutrient levels are important for both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid conditions
Best Test Options
Patient Story
History
Rachel attended our clinic with low energy, poor hair and nail quality and a diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism – her TSH level was raised but freeT4 remained in the lower end of the normal range. Her doctor had told her not to worry, just to ‘watch and wait’. Rachel wanted to avoid any progression of her thyroid condition and to avoid medication in the future.
Tests
Rachel carried out the Advanced Thyroid Test which showed that she had no antibodies to her thyroid. She also carried out a Thyroid Nutrient Profile which identified very low iodine levels along with low magnesium and zinc.
Plan
Rachel started on a targeted supplement protocol to slowly and safely restore very low iodine levels. She was also advised on dietary sources, but being cautious not to exceed safe intake levels. She included a multivitamin and mineral to restore other deficiencies and generally support her energy while she adapted her diet. She made helpful dietary and lifestyle changes to support daily energy and increase intake of nutrients to support her thyroid health.
Re-test
On repeat, iodine levels were restored to normal and her thyroid function had greatly improved. Her TSH was in the normal range and her free T4 levels had improved.
Outcome
Rachel stayed on a maintenance plan and monitored her thyroid function annually to ensure that it was stable.
“I am absolutely delighted to avoid medication, I know I have to keep an eye on it but would never have known about my deficiencies without testing”
