The Complexity of the Thyroid - What You Need to Know

What do we mean when we refer to the thyroid as complex?

Most of you are already aware that the butterfly-shaped thyroid gland is vital in regulating various bodily functions and processes. However, the vast majority of us don’t really pay much attention to this essential organ as long as it’s functioning the way it’s supposed to.

It’s only when we suffer from poor thyroid health in one way or another that we might find ourselves in a situation where we’re motivated to learn more about how the thyroid actually operates. 

In short, most treatments in the traditional model are focused on the thyroid itself and by treating diseases and symptoms with antithyroid drugs, levothyroxine, radioiodine or in some cases even surgery. 

What I mean when I refer to the complexity of the thyroid is that most action is happening beyond the thyroid itself as a matter of fact!

What are the main processes at play in terms of thyroid issues?

Once we take a closer look into the specifics of the thyroid, we are able to ascertain that four main processes are at play when the thyroid does its thing if you may. 

It all starts in the head

• The initial process starts in the brain which sends a message to the thyroid to produce so-called TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone).

TSH stimulated production of hormones

• Step two implies the TSH stimulating the production of two main hormones, T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). With regard to the latter hormones, it’s important to point out that we have a higher percentage of T4 in comparison to T3 which leads us to the next step (conversion). 

Conversion of T4 to T3

• Your body converts the main thyroid hormone, i.e. T4 (which we have more of) to the active thyroid hormone T3. T3 returns the favor by turning on our DNA, metabolism, brain function… pretty much every single cell in your body. This conversion mainly takes place in three organs, the liver, the kidney as well as the GI. 

T3 transportation 

• Last but not least, after conversion, T3 is transported across tissue barriers to different areas of your body so as to support its various functions and ensure optimal thyroid health. 

What can possibly go wrong?

After this simplified 101 in basic thyroid functions, it is fair to say that a sophisticated and intricate web of different organs and processes are involved in ensuring that the thyroid functions properly.

The fact that so many steps, processes and areas are involved conversely implies that many things can also go wrong!

• What if the communication between the brain and thyroid is compromised?
• What if your body fails to produce enough T3 or T4?
• What if your liver, kidney or GI fail to function the way they’re supposed to?

The above points are all key and need to be addressed by your physician when assessing your overall thyroid health. It’s only when you’re working with someone who is genuinely dedicated to looking out for and evaluating multiple, different markers that you can actually embark on the journey of healing your thyroid gland!

Concluding remarks

Due to the complexity of the thyroid, many issues arising as a result of it not functioning properly may be dismissed, overlooked or poorly diagnosed by conventional medical practitioners on the account of thyroid tests coming out “perfectly fine”.

There are many reasons, beyond the thyroid itself, that can cause thyroid illness such as elevated cholesterol levels, digestion problems or kidney failure to mention a few examples. 

Your thyroid can be fine according to all studies, but what if any of the other processes at play is messing with its optimal functionality?

Nobody knows your body better than you! If you’ve experienced any symptoms such as…

• Anxiety, irritability and nervousness.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Weight loss
• An enlarged thyroid gland or a goiter
• Muscle weakness and tremor
• Irregular menstrual periods or having your menstrual cycle stop

… you’re welcome to reach out to us for help in removing the obstacles standing in the way of you living your best life!

There are limitations to traditional medicine, in particular when it comes to thyroid related problems and diseases.

Don’t let another day pass by in vain. 

Call us today to start the process of achieving overall health - Schedule an appointment now!