The thyroid gland is located on the front part of your neck below your “Adam’s apple.” This gland is part of the endocrine system and produces hormones, which regulate the function and activity of almost every organ and cell in your body and help your body to work properly.

Is your thyroid making you ill?

Diseases of the this gland can result in either production of too much thyroid hormone, which is called overactive thyroid disease or hyperthyroidism, or too little thyroid hormone, also known as underactive thyroid disease or hypothyroidism.  Other issues may include nodules and/or goiters.  Diseases and issues with the thyroid are very common because of all the stressors in our environment, including toxins such as heavy metals and pesticides, nutritional deficiencies and chronic stress, all of which interfere with our thyroid function. Nowadays around 1 in 20 people will experience some form of thyroid dysfunction in their lifetime. Women are more susceptible than men. Though their prevalence is high, thyroid disorders can be difficult to diagnose as many of their symptoms overlap other conditions or are similar to those of other medical conditions.

Symptoms of an overactive thyroid include:

• Rapid pulse
• Tremor (shaking) of the hands
• Sweating and sensitivity to heat
• Weight loss (despite an increased appetite)
• Nervousness, agitation and anxiety
• Fatigue
• Diarrhoea
• Bulging eyes
• Goitre

Symptoms of an underactive thyroid include:

• Lethargy and fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Unusual weight gain
• Depression
• Reduced concentration (brain fog)
• Low sex drive
• Puffiness of the face
• Hair loss
• Dry skin, dry tangled hair
• Constipation
• Heavy periods

If you present with some of these symptoms but your labs are within the normal range you deserve a deeper investigation of the clues where no one else is looking. Our naturopaths and nutritionists will provide comprehensive care and individualised treatment to get you well.

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Bernadett Healy – Nutritionist

Bernadett is a qualified Nutritionist and Kinesiologist offering scientific, evidenced based nutrition with functional testing, mind set coaching and kinesiology to get to the root cause of your health issues.  Her area of practice is in chronic health conditions caused by mould, sensitivites and in childrens’ health.  With a background in financial services, her interest also extends to stress management and fatigue in high pressure corporate work environment.

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References:

• www.emedicinehealth.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=87925
• www.ultrawellness.com/blog/ultrawellness-key-5
• www.ultrawellness.com/blog/ultrawellness-key-1
• www.ultrawellness.com/blog/ultramind-solution-calm-mind