Podcast Summary
Thyroid health, Hashimoto's: Hashimoto's is a common autoimmune thyroid condition during menopause caused by genetic predisposition, leaky gut, and triggers like stress or hormonal shifts. Seek comprehensive resources for thyroid health, including understanding medication use, supplements, and lifestyle factors.
Thyroid problems are common, particularly for women going through menopause, with approximately 90% of hypothyroidism being the autoimmune form called Hashimoto's. The root causes of Hashimoto's include genetic predisposition, leaky gut, and triggers like stress or hormonal shifts. Traditional healthcare may not provide a comprehensive approach to addressing thyroid health, and it's essential to understand the multifactorial aspects of lifestyle that impact thyroid function. This includes knowing when to use medication, when not to use it, and what supplements may be helpful. If you're struggling with thyroid issues, don't give up on yourself. Instead, seek resources like Dr. Amy Horneman's Thyroid Fixer podcast and the Better Thyroid and Hormone Institute. Remember, you have the power to take control of your health and improve your thyroid function.
Hormonal shifts and thyroid issues: Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can trigger autoimmune responses leading to thyroid problems and release stored toxins. Addressing both hormonal and toxic triggers is necessary for effective thyroid repair. Lifestyle changes, detoxing, supporting the immune system, and direct thyroid support through hormone replacement or other methods are all essential.
Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can trigger autoimmune responses, leading to thyroid issues. These hormonal shifts can also release stored toxins like lead and mercury, which can further harm the thyroid. It's essential to address both the hormonal and toxic triggers to repair the thyroid effectively. Detoxing and supporting the immune system are necessary tools, but addressing the thyroid directly through hormone replacement or other methods is also crucial. Ultimately, lifestyle changes are necessary for long-term success in managing thyroid health. It's important to remember that hormone replacement does not excuse poor lifestyle choices, and both must be addressed for optimal thyroid function. Additionally, TSH is not the only lab value to consider when assessing thyroid health, as other markers like T3 and T4 may also be important.
Thyroid health: Testing and treating based on TSH levels alone is insufficient for effective thyroid health management. Comprehensive thyroid panels, addressing underlying causes, and considering lifestyle factors are crucial for proper thyroid function.
When it comes to thyroid health, simply testing and treating based on Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels is not sufficient. Many factors, including the need for the right type and combination of thyroid hormones, as well as addressing underlying causes of thyroid dysfunction, are crucial for effective treatment. Unfortunately, conventional doctors may only test TSH and prescribe T4 medication, but this may not be the best solution for everyone. To ensure proper thyroid function, it's essential to advocate for a comprehensive thyroid panel, including testing for free T3 and T4, reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies. If your doctor refuses to test beyond TSH, it may be time to seek a new healthcare provider. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as nutrient deficiencies, stress, and environmental toxins can impact thyroid hormone conversion and function, making it crucial to address these aspects as well.
Gut health and emotional traumas: Addressing thyroid issues requires focusing on gut health and healing emotional traumas, as a damaged gut microbiome and emotional stress can hinder the conversion of T4 to T3 and contribute to thyroid dysfunction
Addressing thyroid issues requires a holistic approach, focusing on gut health and healing from emotional traumas. The gut plays a significant role in the conversion of T4 to T3, and a damaged gut microbiome due to long-term use of birth control pills can hinder this process. Emotional traumas, especially those from childhood, can impact the endocrine system and contribute to thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance, and cortisol imbalance. As women approach menopause, the neurochemical armor that protected them from past traumas begins to wear down, making it harder to ignore unresolved emotional issues. To support women's health and well-being, it is crucial to address these underlying factors alongside conventional medical treatments.
Menopause and Authentic Self: Menopause can lead to a loss of neurochemical armor, increased sensitivity to stressors, and potential impact on thyroid function. Chinese medicine suggests a connection between thyroid health and expressing authentic self. Addressing stressors and considering thyroid hormone replacement can improve quality of life.
During menopause, women may experience a shift in their brain and hormones, leading to a loss of neurochemical armor and potential reconnection with their authentic selves. This transition can bring about a decrease in concern for minor issues and an increased sensitivity to stressors, ultimately impacting thyroid function. Chinese medicine supports this idea, suggesting a connection between thyroid health and the ability to use one's voice and express authentic self in a culture that may have previously suppressed it. The importance of addressing stressors and considering thyroid hormone replacement as a tool for improved quality of life completes the holistic approach to managing thyroid health during menopause.
Thyroid optimization: Proper care and attention can optimize thyroid function, addressing nutrient deficiencies, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, supplements or peptides. Ensure adequate calorie and protein intake, and consider personalized approaches.
With proper care and attention, it's possible to optimize thyroid function and potentially reduce or eliminate the need for medication. This can involve addressing nutrient deficiencies, lifestyle changes such as stress management and sleep optimization, and in some cases, short-term use of supplements or peptides to support thyroid function. It's important to note that caloric restriction below a certain level can negatively impact thyroid function, so it's crucial to ensure adequate calorie and protein intake. Fasting, when done correctly, can actually improve thyroid function. Testing and personalized approaches based on individual needs are key to finding the best solution.
Gluten and Thyroid: Avoiding gluten can help prevent autoimmune attacks on the thyroid gland, potentially reducing inflammation and aiding in appetite control. Medications like Zempic can also help manage inflammation and potentially push Hashimoto's into remission, but must be used responsibly.
Gluten, specifically the protein gliadin found in wheat, can trigger an autoimmune response in the body, leading to attacks on the thyroid gland. This can result in various autoimmune conditions, including Hashimoto's disease. It is essential to avoid gluten completely to prevent these attacks and maintain thyroid health. This may be challenging, but the benefits, such as reduced inflammation and appetite control, can make the effort worthwhile. Additionally, medications like Zempic can help reduce inflammation and lower antibodies, potentially pushing Hashimoto's into remission. However, it is crucial to use these medications responsibly and not starve the body, as this can lead to thyroid problems and other health issues. Remember, the key to maintaining thyroid health is a balanced lifestyle that addresses all necessary factors.
Symptoms and Health Improvement: Recognize and address symptoms to improve health, use tools like thyroid hormone and bioidentical hormone replacement, and seek professional help if needed.
Recognizing and addressing symptoms is key to understanding and improving your health, even if your doctor tells you otherwise. Dr. Amy Horneman encourages individuals to bullet point their symptoms, get the necessary testing done, and make small, manageable lifestyle changes. She emphasizes the importance of using tools like thyroid hormone and bioidentical hormone replacement, and encourages seeking help from professionals if needed. Symptoms are a gift from your body, trying to communicate something is off. Don't accept being told your symptoms are all in your head. Dr. Horneman provides resources on her website, including optimal lab value ranges and free guides, to help individuals take charge of their health journey. Her definition of health is about shoring up the body and building up resilience to handle life's stressors. The measurement of health is subjective, but when you feel good and have energy, that's a sign you're on the right track.
Healthy Living: A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management, and mindfulness practices contribute to optimal health and prevent chronic diseases.
Maintaining good health involves a holistic approach, encompassing both physical and mental well-being. We discussed various aspects of this, including the importance of a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. It's essential to prioritize these elements to ensure optimal health and prevent chronic diseases. Additionally, we explored the benefits of mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, for improving mental health and overall well-being. By incorporating these habits into our daily lives, we can significantly enhance our quality of life and live happier, healthier lives. So, let's make a commitment to prioritize our health, both physically and mentally, and remember that every little step counts towards a healthier, happier future.