Thyroid Concerns
ABOUT
Thyroid Concerns
Did you know that a tiny, butterfly shaped gland nestled in your throat is responsible for producing and regulating some of the most important hormones in your body? This mighty gland is called the thyroid, and while it’s relatively small in size, it plays a large role in our endocrine (hormone) system.
The thyroid gland produces hormones that interact with many other hormones (like insulin, cortisol, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone). When considering how intimately all hormones communicate with each other, it’s no wonder so many symptoms and diseases are tied to a poorly performing thyroid!
The importance of a complete assessment
What is causing your thyroid to malfunction? Is it a genetic predisposition, nutritional deficiency or related to acute or chronic stress? Our Naturopathic Doctors will conduct a complete health and lifestyle assessment to identify any predisposing and/or associated issues related to your specific thyroid issue. They will then advise you on the relevant blood work required to uncover any associated nutritional deficiencies, biochemical or hormonal imbalances. If additional testing is indicated over and above what has already been done, we will advise you accordingly.
The importance of a complete assessment
What is causing your thyroid to malfunction? Is it a genetic predisposition, nutritional deficiency or related to acute or chronic stress? Our Naturopathic Doctors will conduct a complete health and lifestyle assessment to identify any predisposing and/or associated issues related to your specific thyroid issue. They will then advise you on the relevant blood work required to uncover any associated nutritional deficiencies, biochemical or hormonal imbalances. If additional testing is indicated over and above what has already been done, we will advise you accordingly.
TREATMENTS
A CUSTOMIZED TREATMENT PLAN
Stress management and lifestyle changes
Stress seems to be a part of our lives in many different ways. It is present at work, home, in our relationships and also brought on by life events. It’s true that some stress can be good, but when we are experiencing it in a few different areas of our life at once, it can be difficult to manage. We cannot always eliminate the circumstance causing our stress and at times it can become overwhelming, but lifestyle counselling can help teach the tools needed to get through these difficult times by providing an outlet to help us cope with the stress of everyday life and specific life events. With practice, and support we can keep our stress at healthy levels that keep us alert and motivated to face challenges.
There are several signs and symptoms of stress including the following:
Physical: Fatigue, headaches, nausea, chest pain, muscle spasms and numbing
Mental: Forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, inattention, poor problem solving
Emotional: Anxiety, depression, hopelessness, worry, anger
Behavioral: Isolation, diminished sexual drive, sleeping/eating less or more
Understanding Your Stressors:
Before implementing any coping strategy, lifestyle counselling can be beneficial to help determine what your stressors are. Once you become aware and are able to identify and understand the triggers in your life, learning coping skills and developing a coping strategy becomes much easier.
Stress Management Techniques
There are many effective ways to manage your stress, but the best one depends on you. Try out the following to see which technique you connect most with:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Listening to music
- Going for a walk
- Talking to a trusted friend
- Engaging in a hobby you enjoy
- Going for a walk
- Exercise: e.g. Yoga, Qi Gong
Diet and nutrition
Food is the best medicine and this is a cornerstone of naturopathic and holistic nutritional practice. Many medical conditions can be improved more with therapeutic foods and nutritional supplements than they can by other means, with fewer complications and side effects.
Naturopathic doctors use dietetics, cleansing and nutritional supplementation to establish a proper nutritional foundation for their patients. Read more about our Naturopathic Doctors or book a consultation with one to ask any questions you may have.
Vitamins and natural supplementation
Worried that clinic sourced supplements are too expensive?
It’s true that the supplements found at health clinics are typically more expensive then the prices you’ll find in superstores, however, it’s often not a big difference and the quality assurance offered makes it worth your while. These supplements are typically better absorbed and more effective, giving you the peace of mind that what you are taking is actually doing what it is intended to do.
At our clinic, we carry the following professional brands:
- Alpha Omega Nutriceuticals
- Biotics
- Cytomatrix
- Designs for Health
- Douglas labs
- Metagenics
- NFH
- Pure Encapsulations
- Seroyal/Genestra
- St. Francis botanicals
These are the types of supplements we have available for purchase:
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Vitamins and Mineral formula’s
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Omega-3 Fish Oils and other essential fatty acids
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Probiotics
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Botanicals/Herbal Formulas
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Homeopathics
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Protein Powders and bars
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Fiber bars
Herbal medicine
Plant substances are powerful medicines used to treat a variety of illnesses. Where single chemically-derived drugs may only address a single problem, botanical medicines are able to address a variety of problems simultaneously. Their organic nature makes botanicals compatible with the body’s own chemistry; hence, they can be gently effective with few toxic side effects.
Botanical medicine is provided our Naturopathic Doctors.
Desiccated (natural) Thyroid Medicine
Desiccated Thyroid Extract (DT)
Why use DT?
Some people continue to experience hypothyroid symptoms while taking levothyroxine (Synthroid). DT contains both
T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, while levothyroxine contains only T4, which must be converted into T3 by the body. Since not everyone converts T4 efficiently, DT may provide better symptom relief for some individuals.
Is it safe?
Yes. When prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare practitioner, DT is considered safe. Regular blood work and follow-up assessments help ensure appropriate dosing and treatment outcomes.
Is DT right for me?
If you have symptoms of low thyroid function—even with normal or slightly elevated thyroid test results—or continue to experience symptoms while taking Synthroid, DT may be an option. A personalized assessment can help determine the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment duration varies. Some people can improve thyroid function through diet, lifestyle changes, and supplementation, while others may require ongoing therapy. Your treatment plan will depend on the underlying cause of your thyroid imbalance.
Many insurance plans cover DT prescriptions, but coverage varies. Check with your provider for details regarding prescription and health spending account benefits.Understanding Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, affecting energy, metabolism, weight management, and overall well-being. Common causes include genetics, chronic stress, and nutrient deficiencies.
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Feeling cold
- Unexplained weight gain
- Dry skin, hair, and nails
- Depression or low mood
- Constipation
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Elevated cholesterol
Can thyroid issues exist with normal blood work?
Yes. Some individuals experience symptoms despite having thyroid levels within the normal range, a condition often referred to as subclinical hypothyroidism. Comprehensive testing and evaluation can help identify and address these cases.
Other Naturopathic Approaches to Thyroid Care
Thyroid health can also be supported through nutrition, targeted supplementation, stress management, and herbal therapies. Since factors such as chronic stress and adrenal function can influence thyroid performance, a holistic treatment plan often provides the best results.