The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism and various bodily functions.

When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a range of health problems, such as weight gain, fatigue, depression, and more. Unfortunately, many people are not aware that their thyroid is suffering until it is too late. If you suspect that your thyroid may be struggling, here are some common culprits to watch out for.

1. Nutrient Deficiencies

The thyroid gland requires a variety of nutrients to function properly, such as iodine, selenium, zinc, and iron. A deficiency in these nutrients can lead to an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism.

Eating a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help ensure that you are getting all the nutrients your thyroid needs to function properly.

2. Stress

Stress can take a huge toll on the body, and the thyroid gland is no exception. Chronic stress can cause an increase in cortisol, a hormone that can disrupt thyroid function.

If you are under a lot of stress, finding ways to manage it, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help support your thyroid health.

3. Autoimmune Disorders

Autoimmune disorders can cause the immune system to attack the thyroid gland, leading to an underactive thyroid. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s can include weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, and more. If you suspect that you may have an autoimmune disorder, it is important to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

4. Environmental Toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins, such as heavy metals and pesticides, can disrupt the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones.

These toxins can also interfere with the body’s ability to convert T4, the inactive form of thyroid hormone, into T3, the active form of thyroid hormone. Minimizing exposure to environmental toxins, such as eating organic foods and using natural cleaning products, can help reduce the risk of thyroid problems.

5. Medications

Some medications can affect thyroid function, such as lithium, a medication used to treat bipolar disorder. In some cases, medications may need to be adjusted or changed to properly support thyroid health.

If you are taking medication and suspect that it may be affecting your thyroid, talk to your healthcare provider for guidance.

6. Hormone Imbalances

Imbalances in other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can affect thyroid function. For example, high estrogen levels can increase thyroid-binding globulin, a protein that binds thyroid hormone in the blood, leading to an underactive thyroid.

Balancing hormones through lifestyle changes, such as exercise and healthy eating, can help support thyroid health.

7. Poor Sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health, including thyroid function. Lack of sleep can disrupt the body’s hormones and metabolism, leading to an underactive thyroid.

Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night to support your thyroid health.

8. Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can lead to a range of health problems, including thyroid dysfunction.

Inflammation can disrupt the thyroid gland’s ability to produce hormones and interfere with the body’s ability to convert thyroid hormone into its active form. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and support thyroid health.

9. Radiation Exposure

Exposure to radiation, such as radiation therapy or nuclear fallout, can damage the thyroid gland and lead to an underactive thyroid.

If you have been exposed to radiation in the past, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about monitoring your thyroid function.

10. Aging

As we age, our thyroid gland may not function as well as it used to. This can lead to an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism. If you are age 60 or older, it is important to have your thyroid function checked regularly by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

The thyroid gland is a crucial part of our bodies that regulates numerous bodily functions. If you suspect that your thyroid may be struggling, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

By being aware of the common culprits of thyroid problems, we can take steps to support our thyroid health and overall wellbeing.