Is Low Thyroid The Root Cause of Your Digestive Symptoms?
The thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, plays an important role in regulating metabolism and energy utilisation by producing and distributing thyroid hormones. However, when the gland malfunctions, it can cause various problems, including digestive issues. Many individuals with chronic gastrointestinal problems struggle to find relief due to undiagnosed thyroid conditions.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the body doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, which can slow down the body's processes. This can lead to several symptoms such as fatigue, dry skin, depression, forgetfulness, constipation and weight gain. If you have an underactive thyroid, you may also experience digestive symptoms like bloating, chest pain, low stomach acid, poor absorption, food sensitivities, constipation, gallstones, anaemia and bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
T3, which is the active thyroid hormone, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and repair of the intestines. Unfortunately, most conventional medicine only supports T4, which is the inactive thyroid hormone. This results in people continuing to suffer from inflammation, gut issues, and common low thyroid symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, and hair loss. This is why many clients who come to us start feeling better when we support T3. Chronic inflammation can hinder the conversion of T4 to T3, along with poor liver health and nutrient deficiencies. We can support all of this through dietary changes and supplements.
The thyroid gland can significantly impact the gastrointestinal system. It is a common misconception that chronic digestive trouble and weight changes are solely caused by diet.
TESting for Thyroid and Gut Health
If you notice weight gain, constipation, dehydrated skin, and brittle hair, there is a chance you might have Hypothyroidism. Given the importance of thyroid function, it is essential to properly test the function of the thyroid. Our Thyroid Package includes an at-home finger prick test. This Thyroid and Vitamin D Test includes many markers not available on the NHS ( TSH, Free T4 & T3, Thyroid antibodies, Active B12, Vitamin D, high sensitivity CRP, Ferritin).
We also offer a Gut Health package for new clients available on our website, which includes comprehensive testing specifically designed for individuals struggling with gut health issues. We use stool tests to assess gut health factors such as infections, enzyme status, fat digestion, colon inflammation, intestinal permeability, and pre/probiotics needs.