Supporting Your Thyroid: A Closer Look at Hyper and Hypothyroidism

What causes poor thyroid function? Many factors could contribute to this, including genetics, an autoimmune attack, pregnancy, stress, nutritional deficiencies, or toxins in the environment.

What Are Some Signs of Poor Thyroid Health?

Signs you may have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroid) include:Fatigue and lack of energy, dry skin and hair, low mood, constipation, low libido, unexplained weight gain, cold hands and feet

Signs you may have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroid) include: Feeling jittery or anxious, increased appetite without weight gain, difficulty concentrating, feeling too warm

Nurturing Foods for Restoring Thyroid Function

A healthy nutrition lifestyle encompasses some key principles:

• Opt for nutrient dense whole foods that are highly absorbable (Juiced vegetables, raw extra virgin oils, flaxseed or olive oil).
• Eat regular meals that include complex carbohydrates and proteins.
• Ensure adequate intake of protein (especially vegetable and fish protein), healthy fats/oils, complex carbohydrates, anti-oxidant rich foods and dietary fiber (especially soluble).
• Consume a diet that focuses on whole unprocessed foods (whole grains, legumes, vegetables (ideally 5-7 types/day), fruits (ideally 3-4 types/day); nuts and seeds).
• Avoid trans fats (found mainly in processed foods, takeaways and dripping), as well as highly refined foods and foods high in sugar and salt.

Hyperthyroid? I would suggest that you consume soy, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, peaches, pears, radishes, spinach, turnips - these foods contain natural components that can support healthy thyroid function. It is best to avoid iodized salt and caffeine which may speed up metabolism.

Hypothyroid? I would suggest you try to eat plenty of seafood, seaweed, apricots, dates, egg yolks, molasses, parsley, potatoes, prunes, raw seeds, whole grains, fish, and chicken. Seafood and seaweed in particular are high in iodine which help to support the thyroid gland. 

Xtend-Life Supplement Protocol

We have paired our Total Balance with Omega-3. These supplements can offer support for thyroid health and function. It is important to remember to also pay attention to other organs and glands that are functioning well to maintain them before problems arise, and the great thing about these two products is they do just that.

So how do those two products support thyroid function specifically?

Total Balance contains ingredients helpful to support healthy glandular inflammation, such as vitamins A, E, C, B complex, selenium and zinc which are needed in the conversion of T4 to T3 hormone, as well as amino acids (essential for balanced function), enzymes and other essential digestive ingredients (can be upset by reduced thyroid function).

Essential fatty acids are also necessary for proper functioning of the thyroid gland, so an initial boost of these may help. We recommend our Omega 3 / QH Premium CoQ10 for maintenance with our two capsule per day dose. This product also features Kaneka QH Ubiquinol (CoQ10), which is an important nutrient for energy production that can be affected by thyroid disruption.

Proper sleep and moderate exercise may help regulate thyroid function, and so does controlling the stress you experience. If you feel you may need support in these areas, you may also wish to have a look at our Serene Saffron.

While supplementation is an important part of overall health and well-being, it should be taken in conjunction with regular appropriate exercise, plenty of filtered water (1.5L-2L per day), quality sleep, stress management, healthy weight management, a positive mental attitude, and a varied and healthy nutrition lifestyle.

In good health.