Thyroid 




THYROID



The Thyroid: Your Body’s Master Regulator

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck — but don’t let its size fool you. It plays a big role in controlling your metabolism, energy, mood, heart rate, digestion, and even brain function.


  Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid):

This occurs when your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones (T3 and T4). It's more common with age, especially in women over 40.

Symptoms:

  • Fatigue, brain fog, and depression
  • Weight gain or inability to lose weight
  • Cold intolerance
  • Dry skin, hair thinning
  • Constipation
  • Irregular or heavy periods


   Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid):

This happens when your thyroid makes too much hormone. Less common, but it can affect people of all ages.

Symptoms:

  • Anxiety, irritability
  • Weight loss despite normal eating
  • Rapid heartbeat, palpitations
  • Heat intolerance
  • Insomnia
  • Tremors or muscle weakness



   How Thyroid Function Changes with Age:

As we age, the thyroid can naturally slow down, leading to subtle or overt hypothyroidism. It’s often missed because symptoms can mimic “normal aging.”


   Impact on Brain and Body:

 Low thyroid can impair memory, focus, and mood

Hypothyroidism can raise LDL cholesterol and triglycerides

 Long-term untreated hypothyroidism may reduce bone turnover; excess thyroid (hyperthyroidism) increases bone loss

Thyroid is essential for brain development and growth — deficiency in pregnancy or early childhood can lead to developmental delays



   Key Nutrients for Thyroid Support:


Iodine required for making T3 & T4 (too little or too much is harmful)

Selenium converts T4 to active T3 - protects the thyroid from damage

Zinc – Supports hormone synthesis and immune regulation

Iron – Needed for thyroid peroxidase (TPO) activity

Vitamin D Modulates immune responsemay

Vitamin D may help to protect against autoimmunity

B vitamins – Especially B2, B6, and B12 for energy and mood

Tyrosine – An amino acid used to build thyroid hormone



  Management Strategies:

Lab testing & Thyroid replacement therapy

Lifestyle: Stress management, anti-inflammatory diet

Vitamins, supplements and active life style