Subclinical hypothyroidism

Increasingly prevalent among women

SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM

Introduction

Subclinical hypothyroidism is an increasingly common condition, especially among women. It is characterised by normal or mildly elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels with thyroid hormone levels within reference ranges but not at ideal values.

Reference values are the ranges used by laboratories to determine whether a measurement is normal, based on the general population. However, the ideal values are those that optimise individual health and well-being.

The presence of signs and symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, intolerance to cold and dry skin, constipation, despite having thyroid hormone levels in reference ranges, may raise suspicion of subclinical hypothyroidism.

HYPOTYROIDISM (Source: Medica Sur)

Precision analytics, what and what for

• TSH to assess overall thyroid function
• Total thyroxine (T4) to measure the total amount of T4 produced by the thyroid Free thyroxine (T4), a measure of the amount of bioavailable T4 that does not bind to proteins
  transport
• Free Triiodothyronine (T3) to measure the amount of free T3 available
• T3 reverse to measure the non-functional form of T3
• Antibodies against thyroglobulin that can attack proteins involved in the
  thyroid hormone production
• Thyroid peroxidase antibodies that can attack an enzyme involved in thyroid peroxidation.
  thyroid hormone production.
• Genetics: DIO2

Recommendations

1. Food

• Avoid excessive consumption of bociogenic foods. These can interfere with thyroid function. Foods to moderate: cabbage, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, turnips, soya beans.
• Maintain a balanced, organic and varied diet.
• Avoid low-calorie diets
• In terms of macronutrients:
  • Carbohydrates
    • Prioritise complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates have a lower glycaemic index and provide sustained energy.
    • Avoid consumption of refined sugars and grains. These foods can cause blood sugar spikes and negatively affect thyroid function. Foods to avoid: white bread, cakes, sweets, sugary drinks…

• • Proteins
    • Include high quality, organic protein. Proteins are essential for hormone synthesis and tissue repair. Recommended foods: fish, chicken, eggs, pulses.
    • Avoid excess protein at dinner as it can interfere with the conversion of T4 to T3 (active form).
  • Fats
    • Opt for healthy fats and avoid trans fats. Healthy fats support cardiovascular health and hormone function. Recommended foods: extra virgin olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, extra virgin coconut oil, organic ghee butter, small oily fish, wild Alaskan salmon…
  • Avoid coffee, dairy products and alcohol which can interfere with the conversion of T4 to T3.

• In terms of micronutrients, maintain adequate levels of elements essential for the proper formation of thyroid hormones:
  • Iodine. Fish, shellfish, seaweed and iodised salt are rich in iodine.
  • Selenium. Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, fish, beef, chicken are rich in selenium.
  • Zinc. You can find it in thebeef and chicken, seafood, pumpkin seeds, nuts.

Regular exercise

• Moderate cardiovascular exercise. Helps improve metabolism and increase energy. Examples: walking, swimming, cycling, dancing.
• Strength training. It maintains and improves muscle mass, thereby helping to increase basal metabolism. Examples: weight lifting, resistance band exercises, Kaatsu.
• Regular and consistent exercise. And so see long-term improvements in thyroid and overall health. Recommendation: At least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, spread over several days.
• Avoid excessive and prolonged exercise

Healthy living habits

• Restorative sleep is crucial for hormonal function and general health. Recommendation: 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
• Managing stress. Chronic stress can negatively affect thyroid function. Recommended techniques: meditation, yoga, deep breathing, relaxing activities.
• Avoid environmental toxins Some chemicals can interfere with thyroid function. Recommendation: use natural cleaning products, avoid plastics and industrial chemicals.