Thyroid Tool Kit

Test Don’t Guess

Any patient I suspect may be at risk for hypothyroidism based on symptoms or family history, I send a complete panel of thyroid testing. Traditional primary care uses the blood test called TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) as the screening test for hypothyroidism. However, simply using this test and applying the standard reference range misses a vast group of women and the opportunity for early lifestyle interventions. A full thyroid panel includes not only TSH, but the circulating thyroid hormones free T3, T4, and Hashimoto’s antibodies as well as reverse T3.

Medication

To get the most out of your thyroid medication, optimize absorption by taking it early in the morning on an empty stomach, and ideally wait a full hour before consuming anything besides water. Avoid taking multivitamins close to the time you take your medications, as multiple ingredients can block absorption.

how to support your Thyroid

Women often ask what else they can do to support their overall thyroid health. The thyroid relies on several key nutrients to support optimal hormone production and reduce autoimmune inflammation. Below are some suggestions about how to support your thyroid through diet and lifestyle.

SELENIUM and HYPOTHYROIDISM

The thyroid relies on three key vitamins Iodine, Zinc, and Selenium to create it's hormone and reduce inflammation.  I recommend 200mg of Selenium to all my patients who have Hashimoto's as it has been shown clinically to reduce Hashimoto’s antibodies.  Iodine is the building block of thyroid hormone, but should usually be taken with selenium as these nutrients must remain in balance for optimal results.  

Learn more about the possible connection of gluten sensitivity to hypothyroid

I sometimes recommend that patients take a thyroid specific supplement, especially if they have Hashimoto’s. Ideally, thyroid supplements should be taken in the morning with food, as zinc can cause upset stomach.