Fix your Thyroid with your Fork - Weight, Mood, Energy

Moody? Cranky? Puffy? Maybe it is not what you're eating but maybe it is your thyroid causing you havoc. I like to call it the ‘master controller’ of our hormones, because it is connected to so many biochemical processes in our bodies. If our thyroid hormones are out … our weight (metabolic), brain clarity (neurologic) and bowels (digestive) can be out as well. Thyroid disease is increasing at alarming rates. In our clinics, we see one out of four women with thyroid disease or subclinical thyroid disease. "Subclinical thyroid” is far too common and affecting many young women, new mums, and even menopausal women. Some doctors will only test for TSH for thyroid issues and that is not the whole picture, there is so much more to the thyroid story. Women are often told that they are experiencing depression or anxiety, when it is actually their thyroid. Time magazine says that thyroid dysfunction is in the top 15 diseases misdiagnosed by doctors.  

Signs and Symptoms of a Problematic Thyroid: Hypothyroid/Hashimotos

• Weight gain
• Exhausted
• Depressed or anxious
• Sensitive to cold
• Thinning hair or loss of 1/4 end of eyebrow
• Puffy face
• Constipation

  Hyperthyroid/Graves

• Heart palpitations
• Tired but wired
• Exhausted but ‘racing’ inside
• Fast bowels
• Weight loss
• Exophthalmos - bulging eyes

Nutritional Supplements for a Problematic Thyroid: Iodine: 

 The most important element when it comes to thyroid function! Iodine creates the basic building blocks your thyroid needs in order to produce hormones. T3 and T4 being the most essential and active iodine-containing hormones we have.

Selenium:  This element is so valuable to our thyroid in so many ways! Enzymes that contain this element help to protect our bodies when under stress. When found in proteins, it helps to regulate hormone synthesis. Selenium enzymes and proteins work together to help regulate metabolism and assist with maintaining the proper amount of thyroid hormones in the body’s tissue and blood. Zinc:  This mineral is vital to your thyroid function! Low levels of Zinc can cause your T3 and T4 to become low and out of balance and ultimately lower the amount of thyroid hormone your body produces.

Iron:  Low levels of this element can lead to decreased thyroid function. When combined with an iodine deficiency, iron must be replaced to repair the thyroid imbalance.

Vitamin B-12:  These vitamins help with the manufacturing of T4.

Omega 3:  Helps with the bodily process of thyroid function.

Vitamin A:  This element helps the thyroid gland mitigate oxidative stress in an ongoing, daily process. * Medical disclaimer. This is for information purposes only. Do not take supplements without the advice of a qualified nutritionist.

Foods that our Thyroid Loves:

Fish: Fish are a great source for Omega 3 fatty acids! Wild salmon, trout & tuna are wonderful sources of the nutrient selenium as well. These foods will help to decrease inflammation.

Fruits & Veggies:  Weight gain is a common symptom of thyroid dysfunction. Eating a diet enriched with fresh produce will set your body up for success! Cherries, blueberries, green peppers and sweet potatoes are some of our favourite go-to’s.

Dairy:  Studies have shown there is an association between thyroid dysfunction and Vitamin D deficiency. Organic or A2 Dairy, such as milk and cheese can provide your body with significant amounts of Vitamin D, Calcium, Protein and iodine. However the best source is the sun.

Nuts:  The perfect source for Selenium! Macadamia nuts, hazel nuts, even Brazilian nuts are a perfect snack option you can take anywhere! Gluten free Grains These foods are full of nutrients and fibre to help regulate bowel movements. Brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, amaranth are my favourite.

Seaweed:  Truly - do not grimace! It’s high in concentration of iodine which is very important for thyroid function. Buy a shaker of dulse flakes and use this as your sea salt.

For a complete list of what should be tested for thyroid dysfunction email michele@ahealthyview.com or better yet… come in for a consultation or a cleanse program.