The Thyroid: Your Body’s Master Control Panel – A Functional Medicine Approach by Dr. Beth Bartlett

The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ at the base of your neck, plays a critical role in your overall health. It produces hormones that act like a master control panel, influencing nearly every process in your body. At Dr. Beth Bartlett’s Holistic Health, we take a functional medicine approach to understanding thyroid function and optimizing its health.

Why is a Functional Medicine Approach to Thyroid Function Important?

Traditional medicine often relies solely on Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels to diagnose thyroid dysfunction. However, TSH can be within the “normal” range while you still experience symptoms. A more comprehensive evaluation provides a clearer picture of your thyroid health.

Complete Thyroid Function Assessment: Going Beyond TSH

At Dr. Beth Bartlett’s Holistic Health, we utilize a complete thyroid function assessment that includes:

  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Measures how well the pituitary gland is stimulating the thyroid to produce hormones.
  • Free & Total T4 (Thyroxine): The main thyroid hormone, responsible for regulating metabolism.
  • Free & Total T3 (Triiodothyronine): The most active form of thyroid hormone.
  • TPO Ab (Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies): Indicates the presence of autoimmune antibodies attacking the thyroid gland (Hashimoto’s disease).
  • TBG Ab (Thyroid Binding Globulin Antibodies): Identifies antibodies affecting protein that carries thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.
  • Reverse T3 (rT3): An inactive form of T3 that can sometimes rise when the body is under stress, competing with active T3 for receptor sites.
  • T3 Uptake: Assesses the availability of binding sites for T3 on transport proteins.
  • Anti-thyroglobulin Ab: Another marker for autoimmune thyroid issues.

By evaluating all of these levels, we can pinpoint the exact source of any thyroid dysfunction and develop a personalized treatment plan to address the root cause.

The Far-Reaching Impact of Thyroid Hormones

Healthy thyroid function is crucial for maintaining a healthy body. Here’s a glimpse into the many processes influenced by thyroid hormones:

  • Bone Metabolism: Supports strong bones and prevents osteoporosis.
  • GI Function: Regulates digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Body Composition: Impacts weight management and muscle mass.
  • Insulin and Glucose Metabolism: Plays a role in blood sugar control.
  • Lipid Metabolism and Cholesterol: Affects cholesterol levels.
  • Neurotransmitters: Influences mood, energy levels, and cognitive function.
  • Estrogen Metabolism: Can impact menstrual health and hormone balance.
  • Cortisol Metabolism: Helps regulate stress response.
  • Liver Detoxification: Supports the body’s natural detoxification processes.
  • Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Production: Essential for proper digestion.
  • Thermoregulation: Maintains core body temperature.
  • Protein Metabolism: Contributes to building and repairing tissues.
  • Anemia: May contribute to low red blood cell production.
  • Progesterone: Can affect progesterone levels, impacting menstrual health.
  • Homocysteine and Methylation: Plays a role in these important biochemical processes.

Taking Charge of Your Thyroid Health

If you’re experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, or difficulty concentrating, it’s important to get your thyroid function checked. At Dr. Beth Bartlett’s Holistic Health, we offer a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment options to help you achieve optimal thyroid health and overall well-being.

Schedule an appointment today and take control of your health!

Initial post version Sept 2017

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with Dr. Beth Bartlett or another qualified healthcare professional to discuss your individual health needs.