Thyroid health

Thyroid
The Thyroid Gland’s Influential Role in Promoting Your Mood and Mental Health

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. However, what many people don’t realize is that the thyroid gland also has a significant impact on mental health and mood. The thyroid gland produces hormones that are crucial for maintaining proper brain function and emotional well-being. 

When the thyroid gland is not functioning correctly, it can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and brain fog. In this article, we will explore the link between thyroid gland function and mental health, and how you can take steps to support your thyroid health for better mood and emotional balance. Whether you’re dealing with thyroid issues or simply looking to optimize your mental health, understanding the role of the thyroid gland is essential for achieving overall wellness.

Understanding the Thyroid Gland and Its Function

The thyroid gland, positioned in the neck below the Adams apple, is a small but vital organ involved in the regulation of several bodily functions such as metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. Its primary function is the synthesis of two crucial hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which are responsible for governing these functions.

The synthesis of T3 and T4 is under the control of the pituitary gland, situated in the brain. This gland is responsible for the secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which serves as a signal for the thyroid gland to adjust the production of T3 and T4 according to the body’s requirements. Imbalances in the levels of T3 and T4, whether excessive or insufficient, can give rise to a range of health complications, encompassing mood disorders, and mental health disturbances.

In addition to T3 and T4, the thyroid gland also produces another hormone called calcitonin, which aids in the regulation of calcium levels within the body. However, it is important to note that calcitonin does not significantly contribute to the regulation of mental health and mood.

The Link Between Thyroid Disorders and Mental Health

Thyroid disorders affect millions of people worldwide, the most common being hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce an adequate amount of T3 and T4 hormones, whereas hyperthyroidism arises when the thyroid gland overproduces T3 and T4 hormones.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to mood and mental health disorders. Hypothyroidism is often associated with symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and brain fog. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, is often associated with symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

In addition to hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, there are other thyroid disorders that can affect mental health, including thyroiditis and thyroid cancer. Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that can cause temporary or permanent damage to the gland. Thyroid cancer is a rare type of cancer that can also affect the thyroid gland.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders Affecting Mood and Mental Health

Thyroid disorders can cause a wide range of symptoms, including those that affect mood and mental health. Some common symptoms of thyroid disorders affecting mood and mental health include:

– Anxiety

– Depression

– Irritability

– Nervousness

– Brain fog

– Difficulty concentrating

– Memory problems

– Sleep disturbances

– Fatigue

– Mood swings

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if your symptoms are related to a thyroid disorder or another underlying condition.

The Role of Thyroid Hormones in the Brain

Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in brain function and emotional well-being. T3 and T4 are essential for the development and maintenance of the brain. They help regulate the growth and development of brain cells and are crucial for the formation of new neural connections.

In addition to their role in brain development, thyroid hormones also play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotions. They help regulate the production and use of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain. When the levels of thyroid hormones are imbalanced, it can lead to imbalances in neurotransmitters, which can affect mood and emotional well-being.

Treating Thyroid Disorders to Improve Mental Health

Ensuring the appropriate treatment for thyroid disorders is essential in enhancing mental health and mood. The treatment approach is determined by the specific type and severity of the thyroid disorder. In the case of hypothyroidism, hormone replacement therapy is typically employed, involving the administration of synthetic thyroid hormones to compensate for the insufficient hormone production by the thyroid gland. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is commonly treated with medications aimed at reducing the production of thyroid hormones or through surgical intervention to remove a portion or the entire thyroid gland.

In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes can also help improve thyroid function and mental health. Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep are essential for maintaining optimal thyroid function and emotional well-being.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Thyroid Health and Mental Well-being

Making lifestyle changes can help support thyroid health and improve mood and mental well-being. Here are some tips for optimizing thyroid health and emotional balance:

– Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can help provide the nutrients your thyroid gland needs to function correctly. Foods rich in iodine, zinc, and selenium are especially important for thyroid health.

– Get regular exercise: Regular exercise can help improve thyroid function and mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

– Manage stress: Chronic stress can affect thyroid function and mood. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga, can help improve emotional well-being.

– Getting adequate sleep: Sufficient sleep is crucial for preserving optimal thyroid function and promoting emotional well-being. It is recommended to strive for a minimum of 7-8 hours of sleep per night to ensure an adequate amount of rest.

Thyroid Health and Mood-Boosting Foods

Certain foods can help support thyroid health and improve mood and emotional well-being. Here are some foods to include in your diet:

– Seaweed: Seaweed is a rich source of iodine, a mineral that is essential for thyroid function.

– Brazil nuts: Brazil nuts are a rich source of selenium, a mineral that is essential for thyroid health.

– Berries: Berries are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

– Leafy greens: Leafy greens are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, which is essential for thyroid health.

– Fatty fish: Fatty fish, such as salmon, are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to support brain function and emotional well-being.

Importance of Regular Thyroid Function Testing

Regular thyroid function testing is essential for maintaining optimal thyroid health and emotional well-being. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a thyroid disorder, such as anxiety, depression, or brain fog, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested.

Thyroid function tests measure the levels of TSH, T3, and T4 in the blood. If your levels are imbalanced, your healthcare provider may recommend further testing or treatment.

Thyroid Support Groups and Resources

Living with a thyroid disorder can be challenging, but there are resources available to help. Thyroid support groups and online communities can provide information, support, and advice for managing a thyroid disorder.

The American Thyroid Association and the All Thyroid are excellent resources for information and support for thyroid disorders.

Regular thyroid function testing is essential for maintaining optimal thyroid health and emotional well-being. If you’re living with a thyroid disorder, there are resources available to help, including support groups and online communities. With the right treatment and support, it’s possible to manage a thyroid disorder and achieve optimal mental and physical health.

May 23, 2023

Surgery Group LA
Hypothyroidism vs Hyperthyroidism

Thyroid glands are a crucial part of your body’s system of organs and hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism and growth. They produce:

  • Thyroxine
  • Triiodothyronine
  • Calcitonin

The thyroid gland problems could be called the endocrine gland, Hashimoto’s, thyroid fog, or a neck bulge, but having too much or too little of any of these critical hormones can lead to serious problems that can affect your daily life.

Thyroid disorders can affect any gender and age group. When the gland is overactive (hyperthyroid)  or underactive (hypothyroidism) this can cause serious complications.

Area of anatomyHyperthyroidismHypothyroidism
Obvious Physical SymptomsFast heart rate
Unexpected Weight loss
Hand tremors		Constipation
Weight gain
SleepTrouble SleepingExcessive fatigue
Skin and EyesBrittle skin
Skin cuts easily		Dry skin
Periods and MenstruationHeavy menstruationLight menstruation or absent period
ReproductionDecreased fertilityMissed Ovulation
Decreased fertility
Bone healthBones may leak calcium OsteoporosisBone growth slows
Emotional and Mental healthUnexpected NervousnessAnxiety and Depression
Hyperactivity		Mild or severe fatigue
Depression and Hopelessness
Forgetfulness

Thyroid problems can be a burden on your mental and physical health and without the right information, it may have you feeling confused as to what is going on with your body.

For most thyroid conditions, a simple prescription of hormone supplement or anti-thyroid supplement is all you need to get back on the right track and get your body feeling normal again. 

If you or a loved one has any questions regarding symptoms synonymous with thyroid situations then let us help you understand how we can help.

October 5, 2022

Surgery Group LA
What are the symptoms of thyroid problems in Women?

Thyroid glands are a crucial part of your body’s system of organs and hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism and growth. They produce:

  • Thyroxine
  • Triiodothyronine
  • Calcitonin

Having too much or too little of any of these critical hormones can lead to serious problems that can affect your daily life because of the large and often dramatic effect these hormones have in regulating your daily life.

Thyroid disorders can affect any gender and age group, but thyroid problems show themselves differently in the anatomies of women and girls. 

Because women and girls are more likely to develop thyroid issues, it’s important to know the signs, and know what to do about them.

Area of anatomyHyperthyroidismHypothyroidism
Puberty and MenstruationHeavy menstruationLight menstruation or absent period
ReproductionDecreased fertilityMissed Ovulation
Decreased fertility
Pregnancy and PostpartumMiscarriage risk increaseMiscarriage risk increase
Pregnancy complications
MenopauseEarly Onset of MenopauseAbsent Menstrual cycle
Bone healthBones may leak calcium Osteoporosis
Emotional and Mental healthUnexpected NervousnessAnxiety and DepressionHyperactivityMild or severe fatigue
Depression and Hopelessness

1 in 8 American women will develop a thyroid condition in their life, this is because of a woman’s increased chance of autoimmune disorders and the rollercoaster of hormone levels that a woman goes through compared to men.

The thyroid gland has a huge bond with the female reproductive system. When the gland is overactive (hyperthyroid)  or underactive (hypothyroidism) this can cause serious complications.

Thyroid problems can be a burden on your mental and physical health and without the right information, it may have you feeling confused as to what is going on with your body.

With most thyroid conditions, a simple prescription of hormone supplement or anti-thyroid supplement is all you need to get back on the right track. 

If you or a loved one has any questions regarding symptoms synonymous with thyroid situations then let us help you understand how we can help.

October 5, 2022

Surgery Group LA
Do thyroid cancer patients still need radioactive iodine treatment? New research casts doubts

Radioactive Iodine treatment has long been a key component of treatment for patients suffering from minor to moderate cases of thyroid cancer. Usually performed after the thyroid has been removed, the treatment was designed to pump in radioactive isotopes of iodine killing any remaining cancerous cells left in the thyroid after surgery, decreasing the chances of relapse.

The problem with the procedure is that while the treatment itself is quite safe and free of major side effects, the procedure can be quite expensive and time extensive for patients.

Newer studies have already indicated that the time for radioactive iodine may have passed. With advances in ct scans and ultrasound testing, many thyroid tumors are found while they are still small and have relatively low risks. For these tumors, it had long been speculated that radiation was not necessary and unreasonably costly to add to treatment. In 2012, researchers found that even smaller than normal doses of radiation were just as effective at preventing relapse compared to normal doses of radioactive iodine.

These same researchers then performed a larger study of 730 patients with low-risk thyroid cancer and tumors less than 2 centimeters in width, treating half with no radioactive iodine at all, and half with the microdose similar to amounts of the previous study,

These researchers found after 3 years there was no difference in relapses, needed treatments, and irregular biological findings, between the groups who were treated and not treated with radioactive iodine.

While these groups will be monitored for years to come, and recommendations on radioactive iodine will not change right away, this could be the first piece of hard evidence that a laborious and expensive part of thyroid cancer treatment may be a thing of the past.

Have any questions in regards to thyroid cancer, or thyroid health in general? Consult a medical professional today.

March 31, 2022

Surgery Group LA
Thyroid Nodules: Diagnosis and Treatment

Thyroid Nodules

A Thyroid Nodule is a solid or fluid-filled lump that forms within the thyroid gland, a hormone gland that is wrapped around your neck under the Adam’s apple.

Symptoms

While most thyroid nodules are small and go away with time if you have any of these symptoms it may be time to speak with a doctor for testing.

For cases of an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism  you may suffer from: 

  • Feeling cold all the time
  • Memory problems or trouble concentrating
  • Depression and fatigue

For cases of an overactive thyroid  or hyperthyroidism you may suffer from: 

  • Sudden weight loss, even if your appetite has increased or is normal
  • Pounding heartbeat, tremors
  • Muscle weakness

Diagnosis and Treatment

Thyroid nodules are often discovered during a routine physical exam. Your doctor might discover a growth or swelling around your neck and perform further imaging tests. These are performed in order to get a better idea of the size of nodules, assess whether you are suffering from hypo or hyperthyroidism, as well as determine if the growth may be cancerous.

These tests include:

  • Hormone Test – Your doctor will perform a blood test in order to test your thyroid hormone levels and see if your thyroid is performing properly
  • Antibody Test – Depending on your blood work,  your doctor may perform an antibody test in order to rule out Hashimoto’s or Graves disease, a thyroid condition linked to an autoimmune disorder
  • Ultrasound of the thyroid – A ultrasound uses sound waves in order to create an image of your thyroid, which helps your doctor reveal the size of the thyroid and nodules affecting the thyroid
  • Radioactive iodine uptake test – Your doctor may prescribe this test in order to understand your thyroid function. They will inject you with a small amount of radioactive iodine and scan your thyroid gland in order to see how your thyroid absorbs it 
  • Biopsy – Your doctor may perform a microscopic biopsy of your neck tissue cells in order to rule out the possibility of a cancerous growth causing your condition

Treatment

Depending on the size of the nodules, severity of symptoms, and causes of the thyroid nodules, your doctor may perform any of these treatment options. 

  • Watchful waiting – In most cases, thyroid nodules are small, noncancerous, and have little chance of growing. In these cases, your doctor may advise no treatment but will prescribe a careful observation schedule with regularly timed testing intervals. If the thyroid has caused new growth or causing new symptoms report it to your doctor immediately
  • Medications – Underactive thyroids (Hypothyroidism) will often be treated with hormone supplements like levothyroxine (Levoxyl), while overactive thyroids (Hyperthyroidism) will be treated with drugs like methimazole (Tapazole) which may reduce the size of the goiter.
  • Surgery – If your thyroid is affecting your ability to breath or swallow, or is connected with thyroid cancer, you may need surgery in the form of a total or partial thyroidectomy. If surgery is performed, you will often need to take regular hormone supplements in order to replace the hormones your thyroid would usually produce

However, in most cases, thyroid nodules do not need treatments and can be managed with aspirin, and a diet that focuses on increasing supplies of iodine in the form of:

  • Seaweed
  • Saltwater fish such as salmon and tuna
  • Soy and dairy products

If you have any concerns regarding your thyroid, speak to a medical professional today.

December 15, 2021

Surgery Group LA
Goiters: Diagnosis and Treatment

Goiter

A Goiter is an irregular growth of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a gland located under the Adam’s apple in a winged-like wrapping around your neck.

Symptoms 

Most people with Goiters won’t develop any symptoms outside of swelling around the neck. However, Goiters can cause specific symptoms depending on if it causes a decrease or increase in thyroid function.

Hypothyroidism – Decrease in Thyroid function

  • Fatigue
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Sleepiness
  • Dry skin
  • Muscle weakness
  • Problems with attention or concentration

Hyperthyroidism – Increase in Thyroid function

  • Weight loss
  • Rabid Heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Increased sensitivity to heat
  • Excess sweating
  • Tremors
  • Twitchiness or Irritability
  • High blood pressure

Diagnosis and Treatment

Goiters are often discovered during a routine physical exam. Your doctor might discover a growth or swelling around your neck and perform further imaging tests. These are performed in order to get a better idea of the size of nodules, assess whether you are suffering from hypo or hyperthyroidism, and determine the cause of the goiter. 

These tests include:

  • Hormone Test – Your doctor will perform a blood test in order to test your thyroid hormone levels and see if your thyroid is performing properly
  • Antibody Test – Depending on your blood work,  your doctor may perform an antibody test in order to rule out Hashimoto’s or Graves disease, a thyroid condition linked to an autoimmune disorder
  • Ultrasound of the thyroid – A ultrasound uses sound waves in order to create an image of your thyroid, which helps your doctor reveal the size of the thyroid and nodules affecting the thyroid
  • Radioactive iodine uptake test – Your doctor may prescribe this test in order to understand your thyroid function. They will inject you with a small amount of radioactive iodine and scan your thyroid gland in order to see how your thyroid absorbs it 
  • Biopsy – Your doctor may perform a microscopic biopsy of your neck tissue cells in order to rule out the possibility of a cancerous growth causing your condition

Treatment

Depending on the size of the goiter, severity of symptoms, and causes of the goiter, your doctor may perform any of these treatment options. 

  • Watchful waiting – In most cases, goiters are small, noncancerous, and have little chance of growing. In these cases, your doctor may advise no treatment but will prescribe a careful observation schedule with regularly timed testing intervals. If the thyroid has caused new growth or causing new symptoms report it to your doctor immediately
  • Medications – Underactive thyroids (Hypothyroidism) will often be treated with hormone supplements like levothyroxine (Levoxyl), while overactive thyroids (Hyperthyroidism) will be treated with drugs like methimazole (Tapazole) which may reduce the size of the goiter.
  • Surgery – If a goiter is affecting your ability to breath or swallow, or is connected with thyroid cancer, you may need surgery in the form of a total or partial thyroidectomy. If surgery is performed, you will often need to take regular hormone supplements in order to replace the hormones your thyroid would usually produce

However, in most cases, goiters do not need treatments and can be managed with aspirin and a healthy diet that rich in iodine which includes:

  • Seaweed
  • Saltwater fish such as salmon and tuna
  • Soy and dairy products

If you have any concerns regarding your thyroid, speak to a medical professional today.

December 15, 2021

Surgery Group LA
3 Natural Ways to Improve Your Thyroid Health

While there are many reasons for poor thyroid health, most thyroid problems begin with: 

  • Poor diet
  • Lack of sleep/Stress
  • Missing Nutrients 

To help protect your thyroid before it gets to the point where you might need medication, here are 3 natural ways to improve your thyroid health.

Vitamin B

People with poor thyroid health, often suffer from low Vitamin B 1 and Vitamin B 12 levels, you can improve your Vitman B levels naturally by eating foods like:

  • Peas, beans, and asparagus
  • Sesame seeds, 
  • Milk and cheese
  • Eggs
  • Tuna

Tuna filet on a bed of asparagus, and toasted sesame seeds anyone? Not only a great meal but a great meal for your thyroid health!

Low Sugar or Sugar-Free Diet

The dangers of high sugar and processed food diets have been documented in numerous studies. Food high in added sugar can cause inflammation, which can slow down the conversion of T3 or T4 thyroid hormones, causing your thyroid-related symptoms to worsen.

Consider cutting out sugar from your diet, especially added sugar, and replacing what you can’t live without with a natural sweetener such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Selenium

In a study performed by the National Institute of Health (NIH), selenium plays a huge part in thyroid hormone metabolism. 

Thankfully, foods high in Selenium are numerous and delicious and include:

  • Tuna
  • Grass-fed beef
  • Turkey
  • Brazil Nuts

Probiotics and Gluten-Free Diet

While there has been some evidence that probiotics and gluten-free diets manage symptoms of patients who suffer from hypothyroidism, and Hashimoto’s Disease, there has been no FDA-recognized study that has concluded that introducing probiotics or gluten-free foods into your diet will promote thyroid health. 

Conclusion

Lean meats high in Selenium and Vitamin B like Tuna, Turkey, and Grass-fed beef, nuts like sesame seeds and brazil nuts, and greens like asparagus and peas are already delicious and nutritious additions to any diet. They just happen to also be great ways to boost your thyroid health without medication.

So give them a try, your thyroid will thank you!

October 7, 2021



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