Fact #1 The Thyroid
is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck referred to as the “master gland” of
the endocrine system, because it controls the metabolism and energy expenditure
of the body. It is the brainchild of
hormone production which functions to transport energy into every cell in the
body, vital for homeostasis and growth.
Fact #2 Weight gain,
fatigue, depression,
constipation,
low body temperature, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, hair loss,
edema, infertility, joint aches and light sensitivity can be symptoms related
to the thyroid gland.
Fact #4 Hashimoto’s
thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. 90% of Americans with hypothyroidism are reported
to have this autoimmune disease.
Non-autoimmune have been reported in the
remaining 10% of the affected population.
Fact
#5 One of the most common autoimmune diseases in the United States is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The body’s own
antibodies specifically attack and damage the thyroid tissue.
Fact
#6 Patients with symptoms of hypothyroidism are rarely attributed to an
underactive thyroid, which always goes undiagnosed until no other cause can be
attributed. Antidepressants are given if
you are feeling depressed, blue, or unmotivated. You will be given a laxative if you are
constipated or are having any gastrointestinal problems. Sleeping pills are given if you are having
difficulty sleeping. The cycle goes on
and on.
Fact
#7 It is recommended to omit gluten from the diet and eat foods with
thyroid-friendly vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, iron, selenium, and
zinc. Raw cruciferous vegetables, soy,
sugar and caffeine are other foods that can impede thyroid health.
Fact
#8 Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may need thyroid drugs in order to be
treated. In some cases, medication is required indefinitely, especially when Hashimoto’s thyroiditis has gone
undiagnosed and there is no longer any hormone production in the thyroid. Consult with your doctor to have your thyroid
and blood markers checked, to find out if your are eligible to receive proper
medications for your thyroid problem.
Fact
#9 Triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are the definite hormones the
thyroid gland produces which are most critical to our health by regulating the
metabolism of the body. Levothyroxine, commonly known as Synthroid,
is the most popular thyroid drug. It is
a synthetic T4-only drug which can act as hormone replacement for
hypothyroidism.
Fact
#10 Thyroxine is a mostly inactive hormone and is the precursor to
triiodothyronine. Triiodothyronine is the principal, active, and most potent
hormone in our bodies, and maximum effect on our health. Many people have trouble converting thyroxine
into triiodothyronine due to stress, hormonal and gut imbalances, and
nutritional deficiencies.
