Hypothyroidism Protocol: Assessment & Addressing Root Causes Effectively

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Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to insufficient production of thyroid hormones. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and various bodily functions. Contrary to hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's is rooted in an issue with the immune system rather than being solely a thyroid-related problem. Understanding how to assess hypothyroidism, identify its root causes, and address them in order is very important in order to reverse and prevent hypothyroidism. 

Assessment of Hypothyroidism:

1. Symptoms:

   1. Tired of sluggish
   2. Feeling cold (hands, feet, or the whole body)
   3. Needing an excessive amount of sleep to function properly
   4. Gaining weight easily
   5. Difficult, infrequent bowel movements
   6. Depression or lack of motivation
   7. Thinning of outer third of eyebrows
   8. Thinning of hair on scalp, face, or genitals, or excessive hair loss
   9. Dry skin and/or scalp
   10. Slow brain processing, brain fog
   11. Lack of or diminished sex drive
   12. Infertility or impotency
   13. Heavy or profuse menstrual bleeding (in women)
2. Physical Examination (some possible signs):
   1. Hoarseness: Hypothyroidism can affect the vocal cords, leading to a hoarse or husky voice. This may be noted during conversation.
   2. Brittle Nails: Hypothyroidism can contribute to the development of brittle and ridged nails. Changes in the texture and strength of nails may be noticeable during a physical examination.
   3. Puffiness: Some individuals with hypothyroidism may exhibit facial puffiness, particularly around the eyes and cheeks. This is often due to the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the connective tissues.
   4. Dry Skin: Hypothyroidism can lead to dry, rough skin. The lack of thyroid hormones may affect the skin's ability to retain moisture.
   5. Goiter: A larger thyroid gland

3. Thyroid Functional Values that Reflect Hypothyroidism: 

   1. TSH: > 4.4 uIU/mL
   2. free T4: < 1 ng/dL
   3. free T3: < 3 pg/mL
   4. Total T4: < 6 mcg/dL
   5. Total T3: < 90 ng/dL
   6. T-3 Uptake: < 27%

Order a Comprehensive Thyroid Test to assess all these markers.

Root Causes of Hypothyroidism:

1. Circadian Dysfunction

2. Chronic stress 

3. Nutrient Deficiencies

4. Poor fatty acids metabolism
5. Liver dysfunction or stagnation
6. Gallbladder stagnation
7. Hidden infections, stealth pathogens
8. Environmental toxins such as endocrine disruptors

Addressing Root Causes in Order of Importance:

1. Circadian Health: Your hormonal balance is intricately tied to your circadian health which emphasizes the importance of a robust circadian rhythm in addressing any type of hormone imbalance. Learn how to optimize your circadian health here. 

2. Clean up your environment 

   1. Filter your water: With reverse osmosis such as AquaTru or distillation machine (code PAOLA)  
   2. Filter your air: I use AirDoctor in all of my rooms
   3. Non-toxic products: Use EWG's website and Think Dirty App to scan products before buying them

3. Nutrient Optimization: Check your levels of Iodine, Selenium, Zinc, Iron, Copper, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Vitamin B12. All of these nutrients are needed for proper thyroid function. The Nutreval test is a comprehensive way to assess your nutrient status. If you are struggling with multiple nutrient deficiencies it is safe to assume that your digestion is not optimal in which case you'd benefit from addressing your digestion and gut health. 

4. Stress Management: Incorporating stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises, helps support adrenal health and reduce the impact of chronic stress and cortisol on thyroid function. Increased levels of cortisol result in the production of an active form of T-3 also known as reverse T-3. Learn more about the fight-flight-freeze response in chronic illness.

5. Drainage Support: Support your liver and gallbladder. Bile deficiency or sluggish bile is a common phenomenon in hypothyroidism.
6. Stealth Pathogens: Work with your practitioner to address potential stealth pathogens such as parasites, Lyme coinfections, and candida based on individual assessment. If these pathogens are present, it is important to open up drainage pathways and tackle underlying toxicities specifically heavy metals, mold and pesticides. Persistent high toxic burden will continue to support stealth pathogens. 

Effectively managing, preventing and reversing hypothyroidism involves a comprehensive approach that includes assessing symptoms, identifying root causes, and addressing them in a strategic order. Collaborating with your health practitioner, making lifestyle changes, and prioritizing interventions based on individual needs are key steps toward achieving optimal thyroid health.