Thyroid Conditions
Understanding Thyroid Health
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck, but its influence on health is significant. It produces hormones that help regulate metabolism, energy production, body temperature, digestion, heart function, mood, cognition, and reproductive health.
The thyroid primarily produces thyroxine (T4), which serves as a precursor hormone. T4 is converted throughout the body into triiodothyronine (T3), the active thyroid hormone that supports healthy cellular function and metabolism. This process is carefully regulated by communication between the brain and thyroid through the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the pituitary gland releases more thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to encourage the thyroid to produce additional hormones.
Hypothyroidism & Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in Canada. It is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly targets and damages thyroid tissue over time, reducing the thyroid's ability to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone. The condition is typically identified through elevated thyroid antibodies, most commonly anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies and, in some cases, anti-thyroglobulin antibodies.
The development of Hashimoto's is thought to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Factors such as chronic stress, infections, nutrient deficiencies, gut health imbalances, environmental toxins, and excess iodine exposure may all contribute to the onset or progression of the condition.
When thyroid function becomes suboptimal, it can affect many aspects of daily life. Common symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, brain fog, low mood, hair thinning, dry skin, constipation, elevated cholesterol, muscle aches, and menstrual irregularities. Because these symptoms can overlap with many other health conditions, comprehensive testing is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Interestingly, the severity of symptoms does not always correspond to the degree of abnormality seen on laboratory testing (ranging from subclinical to overt hypothyroidism), which is why an individualized assessment is so important.
At WNHN, we take a thorough and personalized approach to thyroid health. In addition to assessing thyroid markers such as TSH, free T4, free T3, reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies, we may also evaluate factors that influence thyroid function, including iron status, selenium, zinc, iodine, vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, blood sugar regulation, and stress hormone balance. These factors can affect both thyroid hormone production and the body's ability to convert T4 into active T3.
We focus on identifying and addressing the underlying factors that may be contributing to thyroid dysfunction. Through evidence-informed nutrition, lifestyle medicine, targeted supplementation, and botanical therapies when appropriate, we work to support healthy thyroid function, reduce inflammation, improve metabolic health, and optimize the body's ability to utilize thyroid hormones effectively. The goal is not simply to improve laboratory values, but to help you restore energy, improve wellbeing, and feel your best.
Learn more about Metabolic Health Here.
Learn more about Lab Testing Here and Advanced Hormone Testing Here.
WNHN’s Approach to Care
We recognize that making changes to your health can feel overwhelming when too many recommendations are introduced at once. Rather than attempting to address every possible factor immediately, we focus on the areas most likely to have the greatest impact on your health right now. Together, we create a clear, manageable plan that fits your lifestyle, allowing you to make meaningful progress with confidence and support every step of the way.
Working with Dr. Burke ND, Dr. Flanagan ND, or Dr. Graham ND involves a full work-up and assessment to determine the best steps forward for you.