The thyroid gland is located just below your Adam’s apple and is responsible for the regulation of your inner state of balance, or homeostasis.   

The thyroid is part of the endocrine system, which includes the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, thymus, pineal gland, testes, ovaries, adrenal glands, parathyroid, and pancreas. It makes hormones (e.g., T3, T4) that travel through your bloodstream and regulate your metabolism, brain and heart function, and reproductive and menstrual cycles.  

When the thyroid is not functioning optimally, a chain reaction of hormonal events takes place that involves many other glands/hormones of the endocrine system and the bodily systems they regulate. The end result is one of two primary types of health conditions: hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism results when the thyroid is overactive. Think of hyperthyroidism like a car engine that is constantly revved up . Everything is on overdrive, including metabolism, frequency of bowel movements, emotions (anxiousness), increased sweating, and—in women—very light menstruation or cessation of the menstrual cycle.  This person often feels hot and can’t maintain a healthy minimum weight. There are also bouts of exhaustion from trying to maintain this intense state of arousal.

Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid is underactive. It is like a car that has poor acceleration and no matter how far you push the gas pedal, it barely moves. This person has gained weight, feels sluggish, and has brittle hair and nails. It feels cold and tired, is kind of depressed, and suffers from constipation. Women with hypothyroidism usually have irregular, heavy menstruation.

5 Ways to Keep Your Thyroid Healthy

1. Eat from the sea. The sea provides many natural sources of iodine, a building block of the thyroid hormone. Salt has a high concentration of iodine, but it can raise blood pressure. Instead, opt for saltwater fish, or try seaweed in a salad. Cod and halibut are high in selenium, which protects the thyroid gland during periods of stress and helps regulate hormone synthesis. Fish oil provides essential fatty acids that reduce inflammation, which plays a role in causing autoimmune diseases.
2. Eat from the earth. Eat foods high in B vitamins, which are precursors to thyroid hormones and influence cell energy. Balance your diet with poultry, nuts and seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Red meat provides iron, zinc, magnesium, and other minerals essential for thyroid hormone function, and the health of other bodily systems affected by thyroid disorders (skin, hair, metabolism).
3. Relax. A daily relaxation practice, such as just 10 minutes a day of silence and deep breathing, can make a difference in the state of mind and body.
4. Move it! Exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Exercise is known to help the body deal with stress.
5. Use Coconut Oil.  Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs).  MCTs can up-regulate a sluggish thyroid gland, thereby raising your metabolism. 
6. Get supplemental insurance. Our diets aren’t perfect, so supplementing with a vitamin/mineral or botanical (herb) regimen can provide extra insurance against exposure to stress, toxins, and perhaps your own family history. Thyro-Blend is a vitamin and herbal supplement designed to support proper thyroid function.  Be sure to consult with your wellness practitioner about the best nutraceutical products for you.

Resources

• American Association of Naturopathic Physicians. "Natural Therapies for Hypothyroidism.." October 11, 2013.
• American Thyroid Association. "ATA Patient Education Web Brochures."  Accessed May 2015.
• Hormone Health Network. "Your Thyroid: What You Need to Know.." Accessed May 2015.
• Women to Women."Alternative Hypothyroidism Treatment.." Accessed May 2015.
• Image:  Blaj Gabriel/bigstockphoto.com