The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck, is in charge of producing hormones that regulate metabolism and guess what else?... Energy levels!!!
Low thyroid hormone, also known as hypothyroidism, is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
A deficiency in thyroid hormone can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue. Low levels of thyroid hormone can lead to decreased energy and a lack of motivation, making it difficult to carry out daily activities. Hypothyroidism can also cause constipation, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression, which can further contribute to fatigue.
Thyroid hormone levels can be affected by a variety of factors such as autoimmune disorders, nutritional deficiencies, excessive stress, certain medications, etc.
If you suspect you may have low thyroid hormone, it's important to see a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and discuss your treatment options.
What's the best test to check your thyroid function?
The best thyroid testing includes a FULL thyroid panel, which includes TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, Thyroid peroxidase, and Anti-thyroglobulin.
If your doctor has only tested TSH for you, and told you your thyroid is normal - this is NOT sufficient - in my professional opinion.
I'm already taking a thyroid medication, so my thyroid is fine, right?
Not necessarily!
I see plenty of patients who are on a thyroid medication that is not working well for them. So if you're taking thyroid medication, but still suffering from low thyroid symptoms, it may be time to explore your other treatment options. Some patients need additional therapies or a switch in thyroid medication to truly optimize their thyroid health and start feeling good again.
What’s the best way to treat low thyroid function?
Holistically! Treatment may include hormone replacement therapy, but it should not end there. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, stress reduction, and regular exercise can help the thyroid function better. Checking for nutrient deficiencies and food sensitivities that may be ruining your thyroid health can help too.
It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of a hormone imbalance like hypothyroidism and to consider working with a naturopathic doctor if you’re experiencing fatigue. We can order tests to determine if a hormone imbalance like low thyroid is the cause of your fatigue. Depending on the results of the tests, we can recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or other treatments to help you fix your thyroid hormones and feelings of fatigue.