Feeling constantly fatigued, gaining unexplained weight, or struggling with low energy—even after a full night’s rest—can often point to a deeper issue. Some may also notice feeling cold all the time, dealing with mild depression, or catching every cold that goes around. Yet when visiting a doctor, the standard thyroid test might return as “normal,” leaving few answers and even less relief.
Despite reassurances that everything is fine, many still feel far from well. One key reason may be the limited scope of conventional thyroid testing, which typically only checks thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). While useful, TSH alone doesn’t provide a full picture of thyroid health.
In reality, an estimated 30 million people have thyroid disorders, with a significant portion unaware that their symptoms are tied to poor thyroid function. Women are disproportionately affected, and the numbers increase with age. Among the most common conditions is hypothyroidism, where the thyroid is underactive—causing symptoms like brain fog, weight gain, dry skin, low mood, hair thinning, and digestive issues.
Because every cell in the body has receptors for thyroid hormones, thyroid function plays a critical role in nearly all systems—from metabolism and cardiovascular health to digestion, cognition, and hormonal balance. Yet many cases go undetected because standard testing overlooks the full scope of thyroid hormone activity, especially when T3 and T4 (the active thyroid hormones) are not measured.
Many people may have normal TSH levels while still struggling with low levels of T3, the form of thyroid hormone that directly impacts cellular energy. Conversion of T4 to T3 happens largely in the liver and gut, meaning poor liver function or imbalanced gut bacteria can directly interfere with thyroid hormone effectiveness.
A complete thyroid panel—which includes TSH, free T3, free T4, and other markers—can provide a much more accurate view of thyroid health.
There are several contributors to thyroid dysfunction:
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Poor liver detoxification
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Gut dysbiosis or inflammation
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Food sensitivities, especially gluten
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Chronic stress and elevated cortisol
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Deficiencies in iodine, selenium, zinc, and B vitamins
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Long-term use of antibiotics, medications, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals
These factors not only impair hormone production but also disrupt the conversion and uptake of thyroid hormones. In some cases, autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease can be the underlying cause, particularly in women.
The symptoms of low thyroid (hypothyroidism) may include:
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Persistent fatigue
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Depression or mood changes
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Difficulty losing weight
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Constipation
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Cold sensitivity
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Slow-growing hair or hair loss
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Menstrual irregularities or infertility
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Brain fog or memory problems
Conversely, symptoms of high thyroid (hyperthyroidism) may include:
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Anxiety and restlessness
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Heart palpitations
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Weight loss despite normal eating
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Insomnia
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Irritability
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Increased sweating
Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves thyroid hormone replacement, often with synthetic T4. However, individuals who struggle to convert T4 to T3 may benefit from natural desiccated thyroid medications, such as Armour Thyroid, which contain both hormones.
Lifestyle and dietary changes can also play a powerful role in restoring thyroid balance:
Nutrients to Support Thyroid Health:
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Iodine: Found in seaweed, eggs, dairy, and wild-caught fish. Essential but should be balanced with selenium.
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Selenium: Helps convert T4 to T3. Found in Brazil nuts, tuna, sardines, and turkey.
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Zinc: Supports hormone production and immune function. Good sources include beef, eggs, seeds, and legumes.
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B Vitamins: Especially B12, which is often low in those with thyroid dysfunction.
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Vitamin D, A, and E: Deficiencies in these fat-soluble vitamins are commonly linked to thyroid imbalance.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
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Reduce stress: Chronic stress depletes key nutrients and raises cortisol, which impairs thyroid hormone conversion.
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Improve gut health: A diverse microbiome helps with thyroid hormone activation. Eliminate processed foods and consider probiotics.
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Avoid toxins: Limit exposure to endocrine disruptors found in plastics, conventional cleaning products, and pesticides.
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Remove gluten: Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are closely associated with autoimmune thyroid disease.
Thyroid conditions can impact nearly every aspect of health—from mood and memory to metabolism and fertility. Proper testing, targeted nutrition, and personalized treatment can make a significant difference. With the right approach, it’s possible to rebalance thyroid hormones and experience renewed energy, clarity, and wellness.
