Women + Thyroid Health
As women enter their 30s and progress through their 40s, hormonal changes and the demands of a busy life can significantly impact thyroid health. The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore key aspects of thyroid health and offer practical tips to maintain optimal thyroid function.
Written by Rebecca
This article is for educational purposes. The information is not meant to diagnose or treat a medical condition and does not replace the advice or care of your physician. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding your health and care plan.
The mighty thyroid–this butterfly shaped, hormone-producing gland located at the front of the neck regulates many metabolic functions in the body and its function is vital to our overall health and wellbeing.
Did you know that women (between the ages of 30-50) are 5-10 times more likely than men to have thyroid issues? Often written off as stress or aging, thyroid imbalances can cause a cascade of bothersome symptoms and issues that can affect fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and peri/menopause. On the flip side, hormonal fluctuations that occur with pregnancy/childbirth and peri/menopause can initiate a thyroid issue such as postpartum thyroiditis or hypo/hyperthyroidism. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can lead to a range of issues, including fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, and disruptions in the menstrual cycle.
Understanding the most common thyroid imbalances:
Signs of hypothyroidism (or an underactive thyroid):
• fatigue
• depression
• weight gain
• hair loss
• feeling cold
• irregular periods
• infertility or miscarriages
Signs of hyperthyroidism (or an overactive thyroid):
• increased heart rate
• anxiety or mood swings
• difficulty concentrating
• an enlarged thyroid gland (or goiter)
• weight loss
• insomnia
• sensitivity to heat
• increased appetite or bowel frequency
• irregular periods or infertility
What to do if you have symptoms:
Talk to your doctor about having a thyroid panel drawn- ideally that includes thyroid antibodies to determine if there may be an autoimmune response happening in your body that is affecting your thyroid gland.
Tips for thyroid health:
Nutrient-Rich Diet:
Consume a well-balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Include foods like seafood, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and lean proteins in your meals. Easy add in– brazil nuts are rich in selenium (which can support the thyroid) so try eating 2-3 per day!
If you test positive for thyroid antibodies, consider removing gluten from your diet to support your immune and thyroid health.
Stress Management:
Chronic stress can impact thyroid function. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises.
Prioritize self-care to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Regular Exercise:
Engage in regular physical activity to support metabolism and overall well-being.
Find activities you enjoy, whether it's walking, jogging, yoga, or strength training.
Adequate Sleep:
Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Establish a consistent sleep routine to support thyroid function and overall health.
Regular Check-ups:
Schedule regular thyroid function tests, especially if you experience symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings.
Early detection and intervention are key to managing thyroid disorders effectively.
Limit Environmental Toxins:
Reduce exposure to environmental toxins that may interfere with thyroid function, such as certain chemicals and pollutants.
Choose natural and organic products when possible.