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The Thyroid Gland, Understanding How It Works.

16 August 2016
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What’s all the hype about?

Until recently, most people had never heard of the thyroid, but in recent years there seems to be a plethora of information about it.

So what is it?

The thyroid gland is considered the master gland within the body. It’s located in the front of the throat and it’s primary function is to produce thyroid hormones which regulate metabolism, which is your body’s ability to break down food and convert it to energy. It also effects breathing, heart rate, central and peripheral nervous systems, muscle tone, muscle control, menstrual cycles, body temperature, cholesterol levels, bone growth, body growth rate, nervous system development, brain, and reproductive function.
So, an imbalance in thyroid hormone production can cause a myriad of symptoms, and as each and every cell within the body has receptors for thyroid hormones, it can effect the overall functioning of our body.

Are you experiencing?

  • Fatigue – after sleeping 8-10 hours
  • Restlessness
  • Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
  • Mood issues such as anxiety, depression or mood swings
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Increased sensitivity to cold including cold hands and feet all the time or heat
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Dry skin, brittle nails and excessive hair loss
  • Cognitive issues including brain fog, difficulty concentrating or impaired memory
  • Swelling of the neck or a sensation of a lump in the throat

Your thyroid may not be functioning optimally and you may have either hypo or hyper thyroid function.

Where to from here?

Standard pathology testing is often inadequate in uncovering an underlying thyroid issue. Thyroid issues often require thorough investigation, testing and clinical history taking to clarify overall thyroid function.

At Melbourne Wellness we can assist you in clarifying if a thyroid issue is present. Lina Capovilla, our clinical naturopath and nutritionist, specializes in thyroid and adrenal health and can support you in healing from these health challenges. To make an appointment call 98940014 or email us for more information at info@melbournewellness.com.au