Thyroid dysfunction

Overview

Thyroid dysfunction encompasses conditions where the thyroid gland produces too much (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) hormone, affecting metabolism, energy production, and numerous bodily functions^[1,2,3]. This complex endocrine disorder impacts millions globally, with causes ranging from genetic predisposition and autoimmune responses to environmental toxins, chronic stress, and nutritional deficiencies. While conventional medicine provides essential diagnostic testing and pharmaceutical interventions, many individuals benefit from complementary approaches that address root causes and support overall thyroid health. Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Health (TCIH) modalities offer valuable support for thyroid function through personalised nutrition, stress management, herbal medicine, and mind-body practices^[4].

Common Causes and Contributing Factors

• Autoimmune conditions - Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease account for the majority of thyroid dysfunction cases^[5,6]
• Iodine deficiency or excess - Both insufficient and excessive iodine intake can disrupt normal thyroid hormone production
• Chronic stress - Prolonged elevation of cortisol interferes with thyroid hormone conversion and cellular uptake^[7]
• Environmental toxins - Heavy metals, pesticides, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals can impair thyroid function^[8]
• Nutritional deficiencies - Inadequate selenium, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins affect thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism^[9]
• Genetic predisposition - Family history significantly increases the risk of developing thyroid disorders
• Hormonal changes - Pregnancy, menopause, and other hormonal fluctuations can trigger thyroid dysfunction^[7]
• Certain medications - Lithium, amiodarone, and some cancer treatments can affect thyroid function.
• Gut health imbalances - Intestinal permeability and dysbiosis may contribute to autoimmune thyroid conditions^[10]
• Sleep disorders - Chronic sleep deprivation disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis^[7]

Signs and Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness - Persistent exhaustion despite adequate rest, particularly common in hypothyroidism^[8,9]
• Weight changes - Unexplained weight gain (hypothyroidism) or loss (hyperthyroidism) despite stable eating habits^[8]
• Temperature intolerance - Feeling constantly cold (hypo) or experiencing heat intolerance and excessive sweating (hyper)^[9]
• Mood alterations - Depression, anxiety, irritability, or mood swings affecting daily functioning^[8]
• Cognitive symptoms - Brain fog, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mental sluggishness^[9]
• Hair and skin changes - Hair loss, dry skin, brittle nails, or changes in hair texture
• Digestive issues - Constipation (hypothyroidism) or diarrhea (hyperthyroidism), bloating, and appetite changes^[9]
• Cardiovascular symptoms - Heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or changes in blood pressure^[8]
• Menstrual irregularities - Changes in cycle length, flow, or fertility issues in women
• Sleep disturbances - Insomnia, restless sleep, or feeling unrefreshed upon waking^[8]

Holistic and TCIH Approaches

Holistic and Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (TCIH) care supports the physiological, emotional and whole system of the person experiencing Thyroid Dysfunction, alongside appropriate clinical care. 

• Naturopathy focuses on identifying and treating root causes of thyroid dysfunction through comprehensive testing, personalised nutrition protocols, and natural therapies that support the body's innate healing capacity while addressing underlying imbalances^[10].
• Herbal Medicine offers time-tested botanicals like ashwagandha for stress management, bladderwrack and seamoss for iodine support, and bugleweed for hyperthyroid symptoms, working to gently restore thyroid balance and support overall endocrine function^[2,6,11].
• Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine address thyroid dysfunction by regulating qi (energy flow), supporting kidney and spleen function, and reducing stress-related inflammation through targeted point selection and herbal formulations tailored to individual constitutional patterns^[12].
• Ayurveda views thyroid disorders as imbalances in doshas (biological energies), utilising specific herbs like guggul and brahmi, panchakarma detoxification, and lifestyle modifications to restore metabolic equilibrium and support optimal thyroid function^[11].
• Mind Body Therapies, including meditation, yoga, and tai chi, help regulate the stress response, reduce cortisol levels, and improve thyroid hormone sensitivity while promoting overall nervous system balance and emotional well-being.
• Nutritional Therapy emphasises therapeutic foods, targeted supplementation with nutrients like selenium and zinc, elimination of inflammatory foods, and personalised dietary protocols that support thyroid hormone production and cellular uptake^[10,12].
• Energy Healing modalities such as Reiki and therapeutic touch work to balance the energy centres associated with the throat and metabolism, potentially supporting thyroid function through biofield regulation and stress reduction.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Practices

• Optimise sleep hygiene - Maintain consistent sleep schedules and aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest to support hormonal balance
• Practice stress management - Incorporate daily mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation to reduce cortisol's impact on thyroid function
• Follow an anti-inflammatory diet - Emphasise whole foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant-rich vegetables while limiting processed foods
• Support gut health - Include fermented foods, prebiotic fibres, and consider digestive support to optimise nutrient absorption
• Exercise appropriately - Engage in moderate, consistent physical activity while avoiding excessive high-intensity training that may stress the system
• Minimise environmental toxins - Choose organic foods when possible, filter drinking water, and use natural cleaning and personal care products
• Ensure adequate selenium intake - Include Brazil nuts, sardines, and organic meats in your diet to support thyroid hormone conversion
• Monitor iodine consumption - Balance iodine intake through sea vegetables and iodised salt while avoiding excess supplementation
• Create a supportive morning routine - Establish consistent wake times, gentle movement, and nourishing breakfast habits
• Prioritise emotional wellness - Seek counselling or support groups when needed to address the psychological impact of chronic health conditions

When to Seek Professional Support

Conventional medical practitioners should be consulted for proper thyroid function testing (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies), prescription medication management, and monitoring of treatment progress. Immediate medical attention is essential for symptoms of thyroid storm (severe hyperthyroidism), including rapid heartbeat, high fever, confusion, or severe agitation, as well as myxedema coma (severe hypothyroidism), characterised by extreme fatigue, confusion, low body temperature, and difficulty breathing.

A verified SoulAdvisor practitioner can work collaboratively with conventional providers to address underlying causes, optimise nutrition, manage stress, and support overall wellness while conventional treatments stabilise thyroid hormone levels. This integrative approach recognises that healing occurs on multiple levels - physical, emotional, and energetic - and empowers individuals to take an active role in their thyroid health journey through personalised, comprehensive care that honours both traditional wisdom and modern medical advances.