The thyroid gland is shaped like a butterfly and located at the front of the neck. It’s a crucial component of the endocrine system, which functions to produce hormones that manage various bodily processes. Our physicians test comprehensively to find imbalances and correct them by checking TSH, T3, T4, FreeT3, FreeT4, Thyroid antibodies as well as Iodine. Other hormones may also be tested to get to the root cause.
Two of the hormones that the thyroid produces, known as T-3 and T-4, play key roles in managing your metabolism. Metabolism is the process through which your body converts food into energy. Every system in your body requires energy to function, which makes your metabolism (and the thyroid gland’s management of it) essential for your health.
Once produced by the thyroid, T-3 and T-4 inform the cells of how much energy to consume. When the thyroid is working optimally, it’ll keep the metabolism functioning at the ideal rate for your body.
The hormones T-3 and T-4 impact several other aspects of your health besides your metabolism, including:
- Heart rate
- Weight management
- Cholesterol levels
- Body temperature
- The depth of your breathing
- Menstrual cycles for women
Thyroid Disease
Thyroid disease occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t properly carry out its function. There are many different types of thyroid disease, including:
- Hyperthyroidism, occurs when the thyroid produces hormones in excess
- Hypothyroidism, occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones
- Goiter, which is an irregular enlargement of the thyroid
- Thyroid nodules, which are small lumps in the thyroid
- Thyroiditis, which is inflammation of the thyroid
- Graves’ disease, is an autoimmune condition that causes hyperthyroidism
Thyroid conditions are serious and require ongoing medical care. Left untreated, thyroid disease can impact the health of your heart, joints, nerves, eyes, mental health, and weight.
At The Center for Natural & Integrative Medicine, our certified physicians can help you manage hormonal imbalances and thyroid conditions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
