The thyroid, a small butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, plays a crucial role in regulating many of the body’s functions. Unfortunately, thyroid disorders affect around 30 million Americans, with an estimated one in three women over 35 suffering from thyroid issues.
This gland produces hormones that help regulate heartbeat, body temperature, metabolism, and more. Whether it’s underactive or overactive, problems with your thyroid can start to show up in various ways.
Numerous factors, including genetics, stress, pregnancy, toxins, and nutritional deficiencies, can cause the thyroid to become unbalanced. Diagnosing thyroid issues isn’t always easy because thyroid hormones impact nearly every part of your body.
Here are five signs that your thyroid may be out of balance:
1. Constant Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time, even after getting a full night’s sleep, is a common symptom of low thyroid hormone levels. While fatigue can be linked to many different health issues, insufficient thyroid hormone can leave your muscles without the necessary signal to keep active, making you feel drained.
2. Brain Fog
Struggling to concentrate, feeling forgetful, or feeling like you’re walking through a fog can be signs that your thyroid is off. Both too much and too little thyroid hormone can disrupt cognitive function—too much can cause hyperactivity, while too little can impair memory and focus.
3. Digestive Problems
Hypothyroidism can slow down the digestive process, often leading to constipation. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid may speed up digestion, causing diarrhea or more frequent bowel movements.
4. Mood Changes
Thyroid issues are often linked to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Hyperthyroidism, in particular, can make you feel anxious or nervous because your body is constantly being pushed into a “go” mode.
5. Unexpected Weight Changes
Weight gain or loss that happens without changes in diet or exercise routines can be a sign of thyroid imbalance. If you’re gaining weight despite maintaining your usual habits, your thyroid may be underactive. On the flip side, unexplained weight loss could be a sign of hyperthyroidism.
What You Can Do
If you suspect thyroid issues, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for proper testing and diagnosis. In the meantime, there are several lifestyle changes that can help support thyroid health:
- Switch to sea salt: Sea salt contains more minerals that can help balance thyroid function.
- Try a gluten-free diet: Some studies suggest a connection between gluten sensitivities and thyroid problems.
- Reduce stress: Chronic stress is a known trigger for hypothyroidism, so try relaxation techniques like deep-breathing exercises or meditation.
- Avoid harmful chemicals: Stay away from products containing Triclosan, which is found in items like antibacterial soap, lotions, and deodorants.
- Take probiotics: A healthy gut is essential for thyroid function, so consider supplementing with probiotics.
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: Focus on whole, organic foods while cutting back on processed options.
- Consider a multivitamin: Ensure you’re getting enough essential nutrients like iodine, B vitamins, vitamin D, and selenium.
If you suspect your thyroid may be out of balance, don’t ignore it—getting the right treatment could improve your quality of life significantly.
