Thyroid Gland
Our endocrine system is one of the most important and complex systems in the human body. All of our body’s hormones, and the organs that produce them, make up our endocrine system. Specifically, our thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland that resides at the base of the neck and is responsible for producing hormones that coordinate activities of the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, skin, and our metabolism.
It is estimated that 52 million people in the United States have some form of thyroid disease, and up to sixty percent of individuals with thyroid disorders are unaware.
What does our body need? Our endocrine system, especially our thyroid, is complex and extremely important for regulating all other bodily functions. Unfortunately, thyroid disease is often underdiagnosed and mismanaged, which can lead to poor quality of life and long-term decline in health over time.
THyroid DIsorders
The most well-known and most common thyroid disorder is hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when there is an under-production of thyroid hormone or when the body does not use thyroid hormone efficiently. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common form of hypothyroidism and occurs due to underactive thyroid production with an overactive immune (autoimmune)response. Generally, laboratory findings of hypothyroidism consist of a high TSH and low T3 and T4.
What Causes THyroid Disease?
- Stress
- Depression
- Weight gain
- Leptin resistance
- Insulin resistance
- Diabetes mellitus
- Low testosterone
- Toxins
- Autoimmune disorders
- Iron deficiency anemia
Optimal THyroid Function
At Flourish Medical + Wellness, we understand the significance of the endocrine system and take the time needed to adequately assess, diagnose, and treat endocrine and thyroid disorders. We may recommend a variety of the following for your specific needs:
- Tyrosine (facilitates conversion of T4 to T3)
- Iodine (but not too much) (facilitates conversion of T4 to T3)
- Selenium (facilitates conversion of T4 to T3)
- Antioxidants
- Iron (facilitates conversion of T4 to T3)
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin E
- Glutathione
- B vitamins
- Zinc (facilitates conversion of T4 to T3)
- Potassium
Symptoms of THyroid Disease:
- Cold, tired, fatigued, weakness
- Thin hair, dry skin, brittle nails
- Dry, rough, pale skin and hair loss
- Weight gain, increased body fat
- Loss of energy & motivation
- Loss of cognition, memory, mood
- Poor sense of well-being, depression
- Infertility, loss of libido, menstrual irregularities
- Constipation, compromised gut motility
Schedule a New Patient Consultation. We’ll do the necessary testing and offer a personalized treatment plan.
Foods to help support thyroid function:
- Steamed Vegetables
- Poultry
- Fish
- Organic Eggs
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Foods that Worsen THyroid Function:
- Sugar
- Coffee
- Dairy
- Gluten
- Refined Sugar
- Soy
Not Your Typical Medical Provider!
“Seriously the BEST provider! Explains lab results in a way that focuses on how your body is currently responding to numbers out of range and how it can be optimized based on treatments. Then, Jackie just doesn’t release you to the wild, she actually follows up to be sure your numbers do get in the perfect range and adjust treatments as needed. Much different than your typical clinic visit. I’ve worked in healthcare for over 10 years and am completely amazed at her skill and ability to make you feel comfortable and understood. 10/10.” – Joanna E.