Thyroid (Underactive) Hypo 60’s

What is the Thyroid?

• The thyroid gland is a vital endocrine organ situated in the neck, below the thyroid cartilage commonly known as the Adam’s apple. It consists of two lobes connected by a thin bridge called the isthmus. The entire structure somewhat resembles a butterfly or a bow tie.

Anatomy: The thyroid gland’s primary function is to produce and release thyroid hormones—thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. The release of thyroid hormones is controlled by the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis.

Pathology: Several disorders can affect the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism occurs when the gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, results from an excess of thyroid hormone production, causing symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, and heat intolerance.

Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease can also impact the thyroid. Hashimoto’s leads to inflammation and gradual destruction of thyroid tissue, often resulting in hypothyroidism. Graves’ disease involves the overproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism, and is characterized by an autoimmune attack on the thyroid.

Structural abnormalities like thyroid nodules or goitre, an enlarged thyroid, are common. These can be benign or, in some cases, cancerous. Regular monitoring, diagnostic imaging, and hormone level assessments are crucial in managing thyroid health and addressing potential pathologies.

How does the Thyroid work?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. Its primary function is to produce and release thyroid hormones, namely thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which play crucial roles in regulating metabolism and energy production throughout the body. The thyroid’s activity is tightly controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland through a feedback loop.

The process begins with the hypothalamus releasing thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), signalling the pituitary gland to release thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH then stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release T4 and some T3 into the bloodstream. T4 is the inactive form, and it gets converted to the active T3 primarily in the liver and other tissues.

T3 and T4 play vital roles in influencing the body’s metabolic rate, growth, and development. They affect nearly every organ and cell, regulating processes such as heart rate, body temperature, and energy expenditure. The thyroid system’s delicate balance is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Any disruption in this intricate feedback mechanism can lead to thyroid disorders, impacting various bodily functions.

The production of thyroid hormones involves a complex interplay between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the thyroid itself, known as the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis.

• Hypothalamus: The process begins in the hypothalamus, where specialized cells detect low levels of thyroid hormones in the blood or other signals indicating the need for adjustment. In response, the hypothalamus releases thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH).
• Pituitary Gland: TRH signals the nearby pituitary gland to release thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) into the bloodstream. TSH acts on the thyroid gland to stimulate the production and release of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
• Thyroid Gland: TSH prompts the thyroid gland to take up iodine from the bloodstream and use it to synthesize T4 and a smaller amount of T3. The thyroid releases these hormones into the blood.
• Circulation and Tissue Action: T4, the inactive form, is converted into the active T3 in various tissues, including the liver and kidneys. The circulatory system transports T3 and T4 throughout the body, where they play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development.
• Feedback Mechanism: As thyroid hormone levels rise, they provide negative feedback to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. This feedback loop helps maintain a balance, preventing excessive production of thyroid hormones.

Disruptions in any part of this axis can lead to thyroid disorders. For example, if the thyroid produces insufficient hormones, it can result in hypothyroidism, whereas excessive production can lead to hyperthyroidism. Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease can also affect the normal functioning of the thyroid and disrupt hormone levels. Regular monitoring, diagnostic tests, and appropriate treatment are crucial in managing thyroid health and ensuring hormonal balance.

Signs of an Underactive Thyroid:

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, can manifest with various signs and symptoms, which may vary in severity. Common signs include:

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or sluggish despite adequate rest.
• Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
• Cold Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
• Dry Skin and Hair: Dry, itchy skin and brittle hair.
• Muscle Aches and Weakness: Generalized muscle pain and weakness.
• Joint Pain: Aches and stiffness in the joints.
• Constipation: Sluggish bowel movements and constipation.
• Depression: Feelings of sadness, low mood, or depression.
• Irregular Menstrual Periods: Changes in menstrual cycle, including heavier or more prolonged periods.
• Thinning Hair: Hair loss or thinning, especially on the scalp’s outer edge.
• Puffy Face: Swelling, particularly around the eyes and face.
• Hoarseness: Changes in the voice, hoarseness, or a raspy quality.
• Impaired Memory: Difficulty concentrating and memory issues.
• Elevated Cholesterol: Increased levels of cholesterol in the blood.
• Decreased Heart Rate: Slower heart rate (bradycardia).

Ingredients which are traditionally used for this disorder
Technical info:

Ashwaganda: A potent adaptogen, it supports thyroid health by reducing cortisol levels, easing stress on the adrenal glands. Its active ingredients, withanolides, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promoting overall endocrine balance.

Astragalus: Rich in saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, astragalus acts as a thyroid tonic. It modulates growth hormone levels and functions as an adaptogen, aiding the thyroid in adapting to stress.

Black Cohosh: Stimulates the thyroid through its active components, triterpene glycosides. It aids in hormonal balance and may alleviate symptoms associated with an underactive thyroid.

Bladderwrack: Rich in iodine, bladderwrack balances thyroid function by supporting the production of thyroid hormones. It also contains fucoidan, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.

Chaste Tree Berry: Acting on the pituitary gland, chaste tree berry helps regulate hormonal balance. It contains essential oils and flavonoids that contribute to its adaptogenic properties.

Cumin (Black): The active compound, cuminaldehyde, in black cumin suppresses the COX-2 enzyme, reducing inflammation and potentially repairing damaged thyroid tissue. It also aids in the regulation of T3 levels.

Flax Seeds: High in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, flax seeds support thyroid health by boosting the production of thyroid hormones and exhibiting anti-inflammatory effects.

Ginseng (Siberian): Containing ginsenosides, Siberian ginseng acts as an adaptogen, supporting adrenal function and enhancing serotonin levels, which can positively impact mood and fatigue associated with thyroid issues.

Ginkgo Biloba: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, ginkgo biloba supports thyroid health by reducing inflammation and promoting improved blood flow to the thyroid gland.

Guggul Lipid: The active compounds, guggulsterones, in guggul lipid enhance the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), thereby improving thyroid hormone levels.

Holy Thistle (Tulsi): With its antioxidant-rich elixir, holy thistle supports thyroid function, controls stress-related blood sugar and pressure fluctuations, and balances the immune system.

Irish Moss: Rich in iodine, Irish moss helps balance hormones, especially beneficial for hypothyroidism.

Kelp: A natural source of iodine, kelp balances thyroid function by stimulating the thyroid gland, reducing goitre size, and preventing thyroid diseases. It also contains fucoidan, contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Leucine: An essential amino acid, leucine supports thyroid production in the thyroid gland and aids in tissue repair, especially crucial for muscle tissue.

L-Glutamine: An amino acid, L-glutamine reduces gut inflammation and contributes to gut healing, preventing inflammation-related thyroid issues.

L-Lysine: An essential amino acid, L-lysine improves immune function, crucial for preventing amino acid absorption issues that can impact thyroid health.

L-Methionine: An amino acid essential for zinc and selenium absorption, L-methionine lowers homocysteine levels and supports gut healing, preventing thyroid issues related to nutrient deficiencies.

L-Phenylalanine: An amino acid, L-phenylalanine increases T4 and T3 levels, contributing to improved thyroid function.

L-Tyrosine: An amino acid precursor to thyroid hormones, L-tyrosine is involved in thyroid hormone production and conversion, supporting overall thyroid health.

Magnesium: Magnesium removes ammonia from the body, addressing gut dysbiosis-related issues that can impact thyroid function.

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): NAC supports healthy glutathione levels, crucial for preventing Hashimoto’s-related thyroid issues and maintaining overall thyroid health.

Reishi Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants, reishi mushrooms support normal thyroid function, stimulate the thyroid gland, and reduce inflammation.

Selenium: Essential for T4 to T3 conversion, selenium supports thyroid hormone synthesis and prevents nutrient-related deficiencies.

Stinging Nettle: Rich in flavonoids and minerals, stinging nettle addresses allergies, prostate issues, and contributes to overall thyroid health.

Taurine: An amino acid with multifaceted roles, taurine acts as an antioxidant, neurotransmitter, and osmoregulatory molecule. It prevents thyroid and kidney damage caused by fluoride exposure and supports overall liver function.

Vitamin A: Essential for thyroid hormone reception and regulation of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), vitamin A supports overall thyroid health.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Addressing fatigue, thiamine supports overall energy metabolism and thyroid health.

Vitamin B6: Crucial for MTHFR-related issues, vitamin B6 lowers homocysteine levels and supports overall thyroid health.

Vitamin B12: Essential for healthy thyroid function, especially important in cases of gut damage impacting B12 absorption.

Vitamin D3: Improving TSH levels in hypothyroidism and antibodies in autoimmune thyroiditis, vitamin D3 supports overall thyroid health.

Vitamin E: Contributing to overall thyroid function, vitamin E supports antioxidant defense and immune health.

Walnuts (Black): Richest iodine source, black walnuts support thyroid function, combatting fatigue and depression.

Zinc: Playing a crucial role in T4 to T3 conversion, zinc synergistically benefits thyroid function with selenium, preventing nutrient-related deficiencies.