You're Not Running the Right Thyroid Tests
Hypothyroidism, which is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, can have a significant impact on how you feel and function. While hypothyroidism can occur in both men and women, it’s more likely to be present if you’re a women. In this article, we’ll discuss common symptoms of hypothyroidism, why hypothyroidism is frequently missed by conventional tests, thyroid markers to assess for more comprehensive testing, as well as how we can create a plan to regulate and support your thyroid for optimal health.
Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Fatigue and sluggishness
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Cold hands and feet, or intolerance to cold
Dry skin and hair
Muscle weakness or aches
Mood swings or depression
Memory and cognitive problems
Irregular or heavy menstrual periods
Constipation
Elevated cholesterol levels
Infertility
Why Hypothyroidism is Commonly Misdiagnosed
Around 1 in 10 Canadians have a thyroid disorder, but about 50% of people go undiagnosed. Why is misdiagnosis occurring so frequently? Conventional tests only assess TSH levels, which is one single piece of the puzzle when it comes to thyroid health. While this is commonly assumed to be all that’s needed to assess and diagnose a thyroid issue, it overlooks numerous key markers. Additionally, conventional reference ranges are average, but not necessarily optimal.
Why Functional Thyroid Labs Are Necessary
Running a functional thyroid panel, such as the labs we run at Winnipeg Nutrition, gives us a much more complete picture as to how your thyroid is functioning. Not only are we testing all the necessary markers, but we also interpret the data according to reference ranges for optimal thyroid function, not simply lack of disease.
What We Test for Thyroid Health
Our comprehensive thyroid panel looks at: TSH, T3, T4, reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies.
TSH or thyroid stimulating hormone, is made by the pituitary gland and signals to the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. This is the main marker tested conventionally.
T4 or thyroxine, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that plays a key role in regulating metabolism and energy. Low T4, along with high TSH, is indicative of low thyroid function or hypothyroidism. High T4 and low TSH, is indicative of hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid.
Free T3 or triiodothyronine, is another hormone produced by the thyroid in small amounts. Low levels may be associated with inflammation, digestive issues, stress, poor sleep and poor diet.
Reverse T3 is another marker that helps us assess the whole picture of your thyroid function.
Thyroid antibodies: TPO and TG are markers that provide measurements of autoimmune thyroid conditions. These are another important piece to evaluate, which are not commonly tested conventionally.
Creating Your Holistic Thyroid Plan
Addressing thyroid health holistically is very important. Testing is a key first step to getting on a thyroid-regulating plan. With your results, we’ll be able to properly assess how your thyroid is functioning and create a plan back to health.
A good holistic plan should be personalized and include:
Running the right tests
Nutrition for optimal thyroid health
Key supplementation to support thyroid function
Supporting digestive, liver and gall bladder health
Supporting the HPA-axis
Addressing root causes of stress
Improving sleep
Exercise
Additional lifestyle factors
If you’re struggling with symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, depression, constipation, brain fog, hair loss and cold hands and feet, let’s assess your thyroid and create a personalized plan to get you feeling great again!
Book your initial assessment with Sara here to get started.
