January is Thyroid Awareness Month and a good reminder to check in on your thyroid health. Experts believe that as many as 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, but more than half of these people are unaware of their condition. It’s also important to know that women are much more likely to develop a thyroid issue. So, what can you do about it? Keep reading to find out more!
The Importance of Your Thyroid Gland
You may not realize it, but your thyroid affects every single cell in your body. The small bowtie-shaped gland is located in the middle of your throat and neck. It produces a very important hormone that regulates the body’s metabolism, which affects crucial bodily functions like your energy level and even your heart rate. So, if your thyroid isn’t working properly, it can have a major impact on your body.
Types of Thyroid Disorders
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hashimoto’s Disease
- Graves’ Disease
What is Hypothyroidism?
Also known as underactive thyroid, hypothyroidism means that the thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone to keep the body running properly. This is the most common thyroid disorder, affecting nearly five percent of the American population. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight (despite reducing calorie intake)
- Constipation
- Depression
- Irritability
- Dry Hair And Skin
- Hair Loss
- Sensitivity to Cold
- Muscle Cramps and Aches
- Weakness
- Memory Loss
- Abnormal Menstrual Cycles
- Decreased Libido
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Also known as overactive thyroid, hyperthyroidism is the opposite of hypothyroidism. Your body is making too much thyroid hormone. Common symptoms include:
- Nervousness or Anxiety
- Weight Loss
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Irregular Heartbeat
- Hand Tremors
- Mood Swings
- Dry Skin
- Trouble Sleeping
- Frequent Bowel Movements
- Light or Irregular Periods
What is Hashimoto’s Disease?
This disorder is characterized by inflammation of the thyroid, and is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. The inflammation caused by Hashimoto’s can also cause visible swelling in the neck, known as a goiter, which can affect proper breathing if not treated.
What is Graves’ Disease?
Graves’ Disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism. With this disorder, the body’s immune system begins to attack healthy cells, thinking that they are foreign invaders. It is the most common type of autoimmune disorder, and it is also the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
So, now that you know a little more about thyroid disorders, what can you do to keep yours healthy?
- See a doctor regularly for checkups and have your thyroid levels tested.
- Watch your diet, certain foods help and harm thyroid disorders. Do your research and stick to the plan.
- Make sure you are getting plenty of iodine in your diet. Iodine is crucial to the production of thyroid hormones.
- Take supplements containing Zinc, Vitamin B, Selenium and Tyrosine. All nutrients needed for a properly functioning thyroid. Or look for a blended supplement such as Thyroid Pro from TonicSea.
- Calm inflammation with a blended supplement such as Inflama-Complete by Innate Response.
- Take a daily high quality probiotic such as from a trusted natural health brand like Transformation Enzyme for regulate gut health and help keep the bowel regular.
Thyroid health is crucial to your overall vitality. Make sure you are checking in with yours often! Make an appointment to get your levels checked today!