Podcast Summary
Thyroid issues in women over 45: Unexplained weight gain, fatigue, and hair loss in women over 45 could be signs of thyroid issues. If these symptoms persist despite HRT treatment, consider investigating thyroid function.
Thyroid issues are common among women over the age of 45 during perimenopause and menopause, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, and hair loss. Dr. Amy Horneman, a doctor of clinical nutrition and thyroid expert, suggests that if these symptoms persist despite HRT treatment, it may be worth investigating thyroid function. Dr. Horneman's journey into thyroid health began when she struggled with unexplained weight gain during her figure competition days, despite following a strict diet. Her experience led her to become a thyroid advocate and founder of the Institute for Thyroid and Hormone Optimization. If you're experiencing symptoms and suspect thyroid issues, it's essential to explore this possibility with a healthcare professional.
Determination in health concerns: Refusing to give up on finding answers for health concerns led a woman to a correct diagnosis and a new career in functional medicine, highlighting the importance of individualized treatment plans
Persistence pays off, especially when it comes to health concerns. The woman in this story went to multiple doctors seeking answers for her symptoms, but was repeatedly told she was normal. Despite feeling otherwise, she refused to give up and eventually received a correct diagnosis of Hashimoto's, an autoimmune form of hypothyroidism. Hashimoto's is characterized by the body attacking its own thyroid, resulting in insufficient production of active thyroid hormones. The standard treatment of T4 only, an inactive thyroid hormone, is not effective for the majority of those with hypothyroidism, including those with Hashimoto's. The woman's determination to find a doctor who understood this led her to the field of functional medicine and ultimately changed her career path. This story underscores the importance of not giving up when seeking answers for health concerns and the need for individualized treatment plans.
Thyroid Disorders: Hyperthyroidism can lead to severe symptoms, but every cell in the body needs T3 hormone. Unfortunately, conventional treatments only provide T4, and misdiagnosis or dismissal of symptoms can occur due to limited testing and understanding.
Hyperthyroidism, a less common form of thyroid disorder compared to hypothyroidism, can lead to extreme symptoms such as anxiety, heart racing, and eyeball bulging. When left untreated, it may result in the removal of the thyroid gland. However, every cell in the body has a receptor site for T3 thyroid hormone, emphasizing its importance. Unfortunately, conventional medical practices often only prescribe T4, and doctors may be resistant to alternative treatments. Thyroid symptoms, such as weight gain, brain fog, and fatigue, can be overlooked, especially in women approaching menopause. Self-diagnosis is limited, and it's crucial to consult healthcare professionals for proper evaluation. The lack of thorough testing and understanding of thyroid disorders can lead to misdiagnosis or dismissal of symptoms, which can be detrimental to patients.
Thyroid health in women: As women age, hormonal shifts can trigger thyroid issues, which can be influenced by genetics, gut health, and hormonal imbalances. Hormone Replacement Therapy, thyroid medication, and essential nutrients can help alleviate symptoms and support thyroid function.
As women age, shifting hormones can trigger autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This condition is linked to a three-legged stool of genetic predisposition, leaky gut, and a hormonal trigger. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help alleviate many symptoms, but if symptoms persist, it may be necessary to check thyroid function. Women are more susceptible to thyroid issues due to lower testosterone levels, and testosterone replacement can offer protection. Supplementing with essential nutrients and minerals, such as iodine, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin D, can also support thyroid health. Thyroid medication is considered hormone replacement therapy, and it's important to remember that as we age, our bodies may not produce the necessary hormones in sufficient quantities.
Hashimoto's management: A holistic approach to managing Hashimoto's involves addressing both the immune system and thyroid hormone replacement, with essential nutrients like iodine, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin D, and supplements like black cumin seed oil for immune support and vitamin D3 for hormone balance.
When it comes to managing Hashimoto's, a common autoimmune disorder, a holistic approach is key. This means addressing both the immune system and the use of thyroid hormone replacement, depending on the individual's specific situation. For immune system support, nutrients like iodine, magnesium, selenium, and vitamin D are essential. A supplement like black cumin seed oil, which has been shown to decrease inflammation, autoimmune antibodies, and even prevent cancer, can also be beneficial. Vitamin D, which is often deficient in those with Hashimoto's, is crucial for hormone balance and immune function. It's important to note that the body needs the right form of vitamin D, D3, and it should be taken with fat for optimal absorption. The conversation also touched on the importance of understanding the limitations of conventional medicine and the role of supplementation in supporting overall health.
Vitamin D vs D3, Iodine receptors, Toxic halides: The type of vitamin D (D3) and iodine we consume optimally benefits our health, but toxic halides like bromide, fluoride, and chlorine can negatively impact our health by attaching to iodine receptors. Ashwagandha and T2 are supplements that can help improve adrenal function and metabolism, respectively.
The type of vitamin D we consume matters, specifically D3, as it fits optimally into our cells for maximum effect. Iodine is another essential mineral, with every cell in our body having a receptor for it. However, toxic halides like bromide, fluoride, and chlorine can attach to these receptors instead, negatively impacting our health, particularly our thyroid function. It's crucial to minimize our exposure to these toxins. Ashwagandha is a helpful supplement for those with low adrenal function, while T2, a thyroid hormone often overlooked, increases our basal metabolic rate and body fat burning. These are just a few of the nuanced yet significant insights from our discussion on supplements and their impact on our health.
Thyroid Boosting Compound: T2 is a naturally occurring compound that converts white fat into brown fat for weight loss and energy, safe for most people, requires consultation with a healthcare professional, and supports overall health with adequate nutrients
T2 is a naturally occurring compound that can help boost metabolism and burn fat without affecting the thyroid or causing heart-related issues. Unlike T3, T2 does not suppress the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) or burn muscle. Instead, it converts white fat into brown fat, which is beneficial for weight loss and energy levels. T2 is safe for most people, including those with diabetes or heart conditions, and it's available over the counter. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement, especially if you have a thyroid condition or are pregnant or breastfeeding. To determine if T2 is right for you, ask your doctor for a comprehensive thyroid panel, including tests for T3, T4, and reverse T3. If you're not getting the desired results from your current treatment, consider seeking the help of a functional medicine doctor or nutritional clinical practice to explore other options. Additionally, ensure you're getting adequate nutrients like magnesium, ashwagandha, iodine, and avoiding fluoride toothpaste to support your overall health.
Thyroid health: Traditional treatments for thyroid issues may not be effective for everyone, and functional medicine approaches can offer more personalized solutions. Seek professional help and educate yourself on various thyroid conditions.
Learning from this conversation with Dr. Amy Horneman is the importance of investing in one's health, particularly when it comes to thyroid issues. Dr. Horneman emphasized that traditional treatments like T4 medication may not be effective for everyone, and that functional medicine approaches can offer more personalized solutions. She also highlighted the differences between various thyroid conditions like Graves' disease and Hashimoto's, and encouraged listeners to educate themselves and seek professional help if needed. Dr. Horneman's free content can be found on her podcast, The Thyroid Fixer, and her website, Dr. Amy Horneman.com. Listeners are encouraged to continue the conversation and share their own experiences or questions with the community. The Lazale Wellbeing Show is available on podcast platforms and Instagram, where Lazale and her team engage with listeners regularly.