Thyroid problems and weight loss

January is Thyroid Awareness Month. So let me start by talking about where the thyroid is and what its function is. Your thyroid gland is a pinkish, butterfly shaped gland situated in the front of your neck, just below your larynx (voice box). It is the master regulator of your metabolism and temperature.

Every cell and metabolic function in your body must be at the correct temperature in order to function effectively. If the thyroid gland is not functioning optimally, then every reaction in your body will suffer.

The thyroid is part of the endocrine system that regulates the balance of chemicals, pH, hormones, and temperature. The pineal, pituitary, parathyroid, thymus, pancreas, gonads, and adrenal glands, along with the thyroid are all part of that system. These glands are meant to work together in harmony. If any one of these glands is overworked, or exhausted, the other glands will work overtime to compensate. 

The thyroid has two modes of function, production and conservation. Production mode is when you need to perform your day-to-day activities at optimum levels. Conservation mode is when the body needs to conserve energy and repair, usually when there is an illness or a high-stress event. A very easy way to see if your thyroid is functioning in harmony with the rest of the organs is to take the BTT self-test.

The Basal Temperature Test (BTT) is a test that you can do at home.  Place a thermometer in your armpit and hold it there for 10 minutes, record the reading for three consecutive days.

The normal body temperature taken this way is between 97.8 and 98.2 F (36.6 C and 36.8 C). If it is below 97.8 F (36.6 C), the thyroid may need support. Women who are menstruating need to do the BTT test on the second, third, and fourth mornings after finishing their cycle.

This is where nutrient and lifestyle changes can make a difference and give the thyroid the tools to switch back into production mode again. Having a balanced diet and exercise routine will get you back on track.

Eat more iodine-rich foods. Seafood, sea vegetables, such as kelp, dulse and algae, carrots, cod liver oil, garlic, onions, pineapple, spinach, and tomatoes.

Exercise more. Exercise stimulates thyroid function, increases metabolic rate, and serotonin levels. Those are important for important for to achieve a good mood.

Supplements with thyroid-supporting nutrients.Vitamins and minerals like zinc, selenium, B-complex vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin C, and iodine work together to help the thyroid manufacture hormones. Homeopathic thyroid support formula can stimulate the body on an energetic level. Digestive enzymes, additional adrenal support, and a probiotics are also beneficial.

By making better lifestyle choices you will lose weight and get your thyroid back on track!