Navigating Thyroid Health - Are my labs normal?
The thyroid, often referred to as the master regulator of hormones, wields a profound influence over your overall health. Its impact extends to your brain, gut, and the functioning of your entire endocrine system. Unfortunately, thyroid issues are pervasive, and they frequently find their way into my telehealth functional medicine clinic.
Conventional medicine tends to present thyroid problems as lifelong challenges, but the perspective shifts in functional medicine. Rather than resigning to a daily struggle, we believe in the potential for symptom remission and sustainable healing.
In this guide, we will dive into the natural approaches, encompassing supplements, diet, and lifestyle changes, to facilitate this healing process.
Natural vs. Conventional Treatments
The divergence between functional and conventional medicine begins with how thyroid problems are diagnosed and treated. It’s crucial to understand the distinction between conventional and functional medicine.
Diagnostic Approaches
Conventional labs typically rely on a broad reference range based on population averages. This approach may not detect subtle imbalances.
While functional medicine adopts a narrower reference range, allowing for early detection of trends towards dysfunction.
Comprehensive Thyroid Panel
A functional medicine thyroid panel encompasses the following parameters with their respective optimal reference ranges:
TSH
Lab Range: 0.45-5.5 mlU/L
Optimal Range: 1.8-2.5 mlU/L
Total T4
Lab Range: 4.5-12 mcg/DL
Optimal Range: 6.0-12.0 mcg/DL
T3 Uptake
Reference Range: 22-35%
Optimal Range: 28-38%
Total T3
Lab Range: 80-200 ng/DL
Optimal Range: 100-180 ng/DL
Free T4
Lab Range: 0.8-1.8 ng/DL
Optimal Range: 1.0-1.5 ng/DL
Free T3
Lab Range: 2.3-4.2 pg/mL
Optimal Range: 3.0-4.0 pg/mL
Reverse T3
Reference Range: 8-25 ng/DL
Optimal Range: 9.2-24.1 ng/DL
Thyroid Antibodies
Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Ab Optimal Range: 0-15 IU/mL
Thyroglobulin Ab Optimal Range: 0-0.9 IU/mL
In addition to an expanded thyroid panel, functional medicine employs diagnostic tests to identify potential dysfunctions in other body systems contributing to thyroid issues, such as gut and brain health.
Treatment Approaches
Conventional Medicine: Medication is the primary treatment option, often without addressing the root causes of thyroid problems.
Functional Medicine: Functional medicine adopts a holistic approach. While medication may be necessary for some, the focus is on uncovering the underlying reasons behind thyroid dysfunction and addressing symptoms naturally through diet and lifestyle changes.
Supplements for Supporting Thyroid Health
While healing, supplements play a crucial role in supporting thyroid function. Here are some recommended supplements for promoting optimal hormonal balance. However, it’s essential to work with a functional medicine practitioner to tailor your supplement regimen to your specific needs.
Iodine: Crucial for thyroid hormone production, but excess iodine can be harmful, especially for those with hypothyroidism. Consult a functional medicine doctor to determine if iodine supplementation is suitable for you.
Zinc: Aids in the production and conversion of thyroid hormones. Deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism and hair loss.
Copper: Balances zinc levels and regulates the absorption of T4 hormones.
Iron: Essential for converting T4 to active T3. Commonly deficient, particularly in women.
Vitamin D: Necessary for thyroid health and hormone receptor function. Supplementation may be required due to widespread deficiencies.
Vitamin C: Some studies suggest reduced Hashimoto’s symptoms with vitamin C supplementation.
Identifying Underlying Health Issues
Thyroid problems can be triggered by various factors. Identifying the root cause can guide you toward the most effective tools, supplements, and dietary adjustments. Key considerations include:
Stress: Chronic stress can impact thyroid hormone conversion and balance.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Deficiencies in selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin D are linked to autoimmune thyroid conditions.
Gut Health: A balanced gut microbiome is essential for efficient T4 to T3 conversion.
Toxin Exposure: Toxins in food, personal care products, and the environment can disrupt thyroid function.
Hormone Imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as low estrogen, can inhibit thyroid function.
Barriers to Optimal Thyroid Function
Poor Mitochondrial Health: Mitochondria are the powerhouses of your cells, responsible for energy production. Poor mitochondrial health can hinder the conversion of T4 to the active T3 hormone. Functional medicine assesses mitochondrial function and recommends interventions, such as coenzyme Q10 and acetyl-l-carnitine, to support energy production.
Liver Conversion Issues: The liver plays a crucial role in converting T4 to T3 and detoxifying excess hormones. Liver dysfunction can lead to impaired thyroid hormone conversion. Functional medicine practitioners evaluate liver health and may recommend liver-supporting supplements like milk thistle and N-acetylcysteine.
Adrenal Health: Adrenal glands produce cortisol, which influences thyroid hormone conversion. Chronic stress can disrupt adrenal function, affecting thyroid health. Functional medicine takes into account adrenal health and suggests stress-reduction techniques, adaptogenic herbs, and cortisol-balancing supplements when necessary.
Gut Health: A healthy gut is essential for efficient T4 to T3 conversion. Gut imbalances, like dysbiosis or leaky gut, can interfere with this process. Functional medicine addresses gut health through dietary modifications, probiotics, and gut-healing nutrients like glutamine.
High Reverse T3 Levels: Reverse T3 (rT3) is an inactive thyroid hormone. Elevated rT3 levels may indicate a problem with the conversion of T4 to active T3. Functional medicine practitioners investigate the causes of high rT3, which can include stress, illness, or nutrient deficiencies, and create personalized treatment plans to rebalance thyroid hormones.
Hashimoto’s Flare vs. Hashimoto’s Diagnosis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid condition characterized by inflammation and the production of antibodies against the thyroid gland. Understanding the difference between a Hashimoto’s flare and a Hashimoto’s diagnosis is crucial:
• Hashimoto’s Flare: This term refers to periods when autoimmune activity in the thyroid intensifies, leading to increased inflammation and symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, and thyroid hormone fluctuations. Functional medicine aims to identify triggers for flares, such as stress, food sensitivities, or infections, and develop strategies to manage and prevent them.
• Hashimoto’s Diagnosis: A diagnosis of Hashimoto’s is established through blood tests that detect thyroid antibodies (e.g., TPO antibodies). Functional medicine provides a comprehensive evaluation to confirm Hashimoto’s and determine the extent of thyroid dysfunction. Treatment strategies include dietary modifications (e.g., gluten-free), immune system support, and addressing underlying factors contributing to autoimmunity.
Immune System Modulation
Functional medicine recognizes the role of the immune system in thyroid disorders. Autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s involve an overactive immune response against the thyroid gland. Functional medicine interventions to modulate the immune system may include:
Dietary Modifications: Identifying and eliminating trigger foods, such as gluten and dairy, can reduce immune system activation.
Nutrient Support: Targeted nutrients, such as selenium and vitamin D, can help regulate the immune response.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate autoimmune conditions. Stress reduction techniques, mindfulness, and relaxation strategies are incorporated into treatment plans.
Gut Health Optimization: Healing the gut and addressing dysbiosis can reduce immune system reactivity.
Supplemental Support: Certain supplements, like probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and quercetin, have immune-modulating properties and may be recommended.
Supplements to Avoid
When choosing thyroid support supplements, quality matters. Look out for added, unnecessary ingredients and ensure recommended dosages align with your specific needs. Consult your doctor for personalized supplement recommendations.
Foods for Thyroid Support
A nutritious diet is foundational for enhancing thyroid health. Certain foods contain multiple nutrients essential for thyroid function. Consider incorporating these superfoods into your diet:
Sea Vegetables: Rich in iodine, vital for thyroid hormone production.
Brazil Nuts: High in selenium, crucial for T4 to T3 conversion.
Wild-Caught Salmon: Abundant in vitamin D to support thyroid receptors.
Organ Meats: Excellent sources of iron for T4 to T3 conversion.
Oysters: Packed with zinc and copper, essential for thyroid hormones.
When to Seek Professional Help
Thyroid problems manifest in various symptoms, including brain fog, fatigue, hair loss, and weight issues. If you suspect thyroid problems or experience these symptoms, consult a medical professional. At our telehealth functional medicine clinic, we offer comprehensive testing and holistic approaches to address the root causes of thyroid issues and achieve sustainable healing.
