May 25th is World Thyroid Day. Thyroid function is central to so many different systems and functions in the body from metabolism, to mood, to inflammation and hormone balance, to immune system function.
Here are some interesting facts that you may not know about thyroid function:
- Some of the physical signs of low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) are: Puffy physical appearance with swollen face and bags under the eyes, overweight, dry, rough, brittle hair and nails, thinning of the outside third of the eyebrows, and diffuse hair loss.
- Proper thyroid hormone replacement therapy can be one of the best antidepressants available, bringing energy and an improved mood.
- Thyroid hormones support detoxification within and in between the over 30 trillion cells in your body.
- Avoid high protein meals at night if you have low thyroid function as it slows down the conversion of T4 to the active T3 hormone.
When properly balanced and supported, your thyroid gland can help you live a healthier and happier life. I recommend getting properly tested and treated by a doctor who is skilled in looking beyond the standard blood tests and prescription of T4 and can offer you a broader look at what is happening and how to best treat it.
In health,