Have you been struggling with fatigue, fluctuating weight, mood swings or digestive issues? It could be a sign that your thyroid may not be functioning efficiently.
Your thyroid gland is part of your endocrine system and plays an integral role in hormone production, regulation & distribution. It is essential for female gynaecological function and reproduction. However, your thyroid gland does a-lot more that just this, it is integral for our whole body to function both biologically and physiologically. Every cell in your body communicates with your thyroid therefore ensuring your thyroid function is optimal is often integral in female health.
Signs & Symptoms that your Thyroid may not be Happy
Thyroid issues can manifest in a variety of ways and can affect different people in different ways. However, some common signs and symptoms of thyroid dysfunction include:
Fatigue and weakness: Feeling tired or weak, even after getting enough sleep or rest, is a common symptom of thyroid dysfunction.
Weight changes: Significant weight gain or loss, despite no changes in diet or exercise, can be a sign of thyroid dysfunction.
Mood changes: Thyroid dysfunction can cause mood swings, anxiety, irritability, and depression.
Changes in heart rate: An overactive thyroid can cause a rapid heartbeat, while an under-active thyroid can cause a slow heartbeat.
Changes in body temperature: An overactive thyroid can cause an increase in body temperature and excessive sweating, while an under-active thyroid can cause a decrease in body temperature and sensitivity to cold.
Hair and skin changes: Thyroid dysfunction can cause hair loss, dry skin, and brittle nails.
Menstrual irregularities: Thyroid dysfunction can cause changes in menstrual cycle length, flow, and frequency.
Digestive issues: Thyroid dysfunction can cause constipation or diarrhea, as well as other digestive problems.
It's important to note that some of these symptoms can be caused by other health issues, so do get your symptoms checked.
How can the thyroid affects female health?
Irregular menstruation can often be involved when the thyroid isn’t working properly. Late, early, inconsistent cycles, heavy bleeding or very light periods can be common. Ovulation is affected too, negatively impacting hormone balance overall.
An under-functioning thyroid can also affect fertility. Major sex hormones like oestrogen and progesterone have a tight-knit relationship with the thyroid. The female brain, heart, metabolism, mood and bone health rely on the thyroid gland to function efficiently.
In the early pregnancy, the foetus is solely reliant on the mother carrying the child’s thyroid until it can grow and develop its own little thyroid. Without a healthy thyroid, the baby cannot continue to grow.
In peri-menopause, the thyroid can become particularly delicate and it’s a common time for thyroid issues to develop, often following a woman into her full menopause.
The thyroid is an important gland that plays a vital role in women's health. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy production, and other bodily functions. When the thyroid is not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of health issues, including fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and depression.
How can Naturopathic Nutrition help?
Naturopathic medicine offers a holistic approach to thyroid health that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of thyroid dysfunction. Some of the key naturopathic approaches to thyroid health include:
Nutritional support: Proper nutrition is essential for thyroid health. Ensuring our diets are full of nutrients and that are supportive of thyroid function and there maybe some parts of our diet that may hinder our thyroid health.
Lifestyle changes: Stress, lack of sleep, and other lifestyle factors can affect thyroid function. Working with your lifestyle and routine can be helpful to support and nurture your thyroid and overall health.
Supplements: In some cases supplements may be used to support thyroid health. These are always considered on an individual basis.
Testing: We may recommend specialised testing to assess thyroid function, including blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels, as well as tests that evaluate adrenal function and other factors that can affect thyroid health.
The use of herbal medicine has been shown to support thyroid function therefore the use of herbal remedies maybe advised in some cases to support thyroid health.
Book a free discovery call with me to explore how nutrition and a naturopathic approach may help you optimise your health and feel your best!
Comments