Thyroid Health
The thyroid is one of your body's most important glands. Nearly every cell in the body requires thyroid hormone and the gland's overall function plays a major role in the metabolism, growth and development of the human body.
Conventional treatment of hypothyroidism often involves the use of medication that contains synthetic T4, the major hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Many people will benefit from conventional treatment, but a small percentage of individuals may still experience hypothyroidism symptoms. This is because the body needs to convert T4 into T3, which is the more active thyroid hormone. Desiccated thyroid is an alternative to T4-only medication for the treatment of hypothyroidism. It contains both of the active thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) which mimics the natural hormone production of our body and may be beneficial for those who struggle to convert T4 into T3.
* Desiccated thyroid is available by prescription only through Naturopathic Doctors who have successfully completed the Therapeutics and Prescribing Course through the College of Naturopaths of Ontario (CONO).
Healing from the inside out
Common symptoms of thyroid dysfunction
- Fatigue, intolerance to cold
- Weight gain, constipation
- Low mood, depression, anxiety
- Muscle aches or joint pain
- Brain fog, poor memory
- Changes in hair and/or skin
Common thyroid concerns
- Hypothyroidism
- Subclinical Hypothyroidism (you have symptoms but your lab tests are “normal”)
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
- Thyroid Nodules
- Grave’s disease
My Approach to Thyroid Health
Comprehensive Testing
- We'll run more than TSH. A comprehensive thyroid panel includes free T4, T3 and thyroid antibodies to give the full picture of your thyroid function.
Optimize Thyroid Function
- We look beyond the "normal" lab ranges and strive for optimal thyroid hormone levels.
- This may involve thyroid medication, or in some cases, herbal and nutraceutical support may be enough to gently regulate thyroid function.
Address Nutritional Deficiencies
- Nutrients like iron, vitamin D, selenium and zinc influence thyroid hormone production and metabolism.
- Ensuring adequate levels of these nutrients is crucial for regulating TSH levels and maintaining overall thyroid health.
Autoimmunity & Inflammation
- Autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's and Grave's need care that goes beyond medication.
- Evidence-based herbal and supplement support can help regulate inflammation and the immune system.