Thyroid
Thyroid Hormone is a metabolic hormone secreted by the thyroid gland which isa butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck. There are 2 main thyroid hormones: Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). There are two glands in the brain, the Hypothalamus and the pituitary gland which help to maintain the balance of T3 and T4 by producing a thyroid releasing hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone. (simple picture could be used to show the location of thyroid as well as hypothalamus and pituitary.) The T3 and T4 which are released into the bloodstream reach almost every cell in the body. They regulate temperature, metabolism and cerebral function.
There are several causes of sub-optimal thyroid function including:
1. Hypothalamic dysfunction occurs when the gland is fine but does not receive sufficient stimulation from the hypothalamus.
2. Inadequate conversion from T4 (inactive form ) to T3 (active form.)
3. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can occur when the body’s immune system damages the thyroid gland.
4. Receptor resistance can happen when the body makes enough hormone but the target tissue does not respond well.
Symptoms of Low Thyroid Hormone include:
- Fatigue (being tired)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures
- Frequent heavy periods
- Weight gain and increased body fat
- Poor sense of well-being
- Loss of energy and motivation
- Constipation
Possible benefits that can occur with optimizing thyroid hormone can include:
- Renewed Energy
- Weight Reduction
- Improved Mood
- Improved Concentration and Focus
- Improved Appearance of Skin and Hair