Thyroid

Our approach to thyroid health

From hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, and more, here at the London Clinic of Nutrition our practitioners take a functional medicine approach to improve thyroid health. 

By uncovering root causes through coordinated testing and in-depth consultations, we can improve the health of your thyroid gland, and in turn improve your health and well-being.

Hormones produced by the thyroid

At our clinic we take a system wide approach to identify the root cause of thyroid disease and will run a more comprehensive panel to get a better picture of the function of your thyroid. Find out more on how we test for thyroid disease here. 

Causes of thyroid problems

In order to successfully treat conditions that are directly linked to the thyroid, we need to understand what triggers the cascade of dysfunction. Only then can we begin to mitigate these triggers to start a path to healing.

Stress

Stress has a significant impact on your thyroid hormone function. This may be due to the effect of cortisol, which can block the conversion of T4 to the active thyroid hormone T3 and can also increase the unusable reverse T3 (rT3), further confusing the delicate balance of thyroid hormones that are so essential for optimal health.

Food intolerances

If you are predisposed to an autoimmune condition, certain foods can cause your immune system to overreact. Specific foods such as grains, gluten, soy, and dairy can contribute [1] to inflammation which can further perpetuate symptoms and autoimmune flare-ups.

Nutrient deficiencies

Your body relies on a certain amount of specific nutrients for your immune system to function optimally. Deficiencies in selenium [2] and vitamin D [3] have been linked to poor immune function in people with autoimmune thyroid conditions.

At the London Clinic of Nutrition, we can investigate if nutrient deficiencies could be part of your underlying health problems.

Gut problems

Close to 80% of your immune system is located in your gut microbiome. Research suggests that poor gut health such as leaky gut syndrome and dysbiosis will contribute [4] to poor immune health. Also, 20 percent of your T4 is converted to the active thyroid hormone T3 in the gut, and an imbalanced, unhealthy microbiome can inhibit this process. 

Gut health testing can determine your level of gut dysfunction to see if this is a factor in your case. In almost all cases, we will investigate our patients’ gut health during their appointment.

Toxin exposure

This is becoming more and more prevalent as our world has become increasingly toxic. Studies have shown that chemicals and heavy metals can cause an autoimmune response [5] against the thyroid. 

At our specialist clinic, we use a range of tests to measure your toxicity levels through labs such as a urine heavy metal panel.

Infection 

Bacterial and viral infections are associated [6] with just about every autoimmune condition. This could be due to the fact that the majority of our immune system is produced from the gut microbiome, so when infections enter the gut, they can alter immune activity.

Iodine levels

While iodine is necessary to make thyroid hormones, excess amounts can actually exacerbate a thyroid condition called Hashimoto’s [7].

Other possible causes may include oestrogen imbalances, blood sugar dysregulation, insulin resistance and diabetes, use of artificial sweeteners, smoking, too much goitrogens and low levels of vitamin A, iron, copper.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary from person to person. The severity of the condition also affects which signs and symptoms appear and when. Because many of the symptoms are so common and linked with other diseases, they can be difficult to identify.

The most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include: 

• Poor circulation and numbness in the hands and feet
• Feeling cold
• Chronic digestive problems 
• Dry/brittle hair and skin 
• Morning headaches
• Muscle stiffness, aches and tenderness 
• Fertility difficulties and menstrual changes
• Hoarseness 
• Decreased sweating

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is most commonly caused by Graves Disease and occurs when the thyroid makes too much T4, T3, or both.

The most common signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: 

• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Difficulty sleeping
• Inability to concentrate.
• Hair loss
• Restlessness and anxiety
• Increased sweating
• Intolerance to heat

Treatments

Here at the London Clinic of Nutrition, our functional medicine approach aims to help patients to address the root cause of thyroid disease.

A comprehensive panel including free T3, free T4, TSH, total T4, total T3, thyroid antibodies and T3 uptake will be required , alongside adrenal hormone testing and iodine loading. 

When we look at thyroid function, with functional medicine in mind, we would consider the following key factors:

• Factors that inhibit proper production of thyroid hormones: stress, infection, trauma, radiation, medication, fluoride (antagonist to iodine), toxins such as pesticides, mercury, cadmium, lead; autoimmune disease (celiac).

• Factors that increase conversion of T4 to RT3: stress, trauma, low calorie diet, inflammation, toxins, infections, liver and kidney dysfunction and medications.

• Factors that contribute to proper production of thyroid hormones.

• Factors that can increase the conversion of T4 (non-active) to T3 (active thyroid hormone).

• Factors that improve cellular sensitivity to thyroid hormones. 

Once the tests have been processed, you will receive a personalised treatment plan tailored to you, your lifestyle and your body’s needs.

Our top priority is to address the root cause of your health challenges. By focusing on the foundation of your imbalance, we’ll be able to ease your symptoms and support the healing process, which will steadily bring your body into balance.

Get in touch 

We offer a range of consultations and packages for clients depending on the level of support required. Get in touch with a member of the team today or schedule a discovery call to discuss your health concerns and be best matched with a thyroid specialist practitioner.

Our thyroid reviews

You can read a selection of reviews from our thyroid clients below.

TESTIMONIALS