A Healthy Thyroid
The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland just below the adams apple. The main purpose of this vital gland is to control the active hormone that regulates metabolism. When the thyroid is working properly it produces T4 or Thyroxine which then gets converted to T3 or Triiodothyronine. Sometimes when the thyroid malfunctions it either starts to overwork or more commonly under-work. As the thyroid slows, T4 is diminished and as a result the body’s metabolism slows. Many times when unexplained weight gain occurs, the contributing factor is a under-active thyroid. Other signs of a under-active thyroid would be fatigue, constipation, hair loss and depression.
Dr. Theodore Friedman, MD states, “If a woman in her 30s, 40s, or 50s experiences new-onset fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, high cholesterol- or even just two of those symptoms, I think those are good reasons to have the thyroid tested by a doctor.”
From a supplement standpoint there are several options to assist the body in repairing the thyroid. First is the mineral selenium. Selenium has antioxidant properties, decreasing the free radicals that interfere with the conversion of T4 to T3. Next is the trace element Iodine, this is a naturally occurring element found in some soil. This mineral is needed for the formation of T4. A iodine deficiency can lead to enlargement of the thyroid gland, called a goiter. Finally, the amino acid L-tyrosine is considered by some doctors to be the backbone of the thyroid system as it is a precursor to T4, L-tyrosine is also needed for other horomone processes.
Having a proper functioning thyroid is very important. If the medical route isn’t taken; there are several natural supplements which could assist the thyroid to proper health.