Individualizing Thyroid Therapy - Copy

Thyroid Replacement Therapy: Restoring Balance for Optimal Health 

Introduction

The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. When this gland fails to produce an adequate amount of thyroid hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism ensues. Fortunately, medical science has provided an effective solution in the form of thyroid replacement therapy. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of thyroid replacement therapy, its benefits, considerations, and how it helps individuals restore balance for optimal health.

 Understanding Thyroid Replacement 

Thyroid replacement therapy involves the administration of thyroid hormones to compensate for the insufficient production of these hormones by the thyroid gland. The most commonly prescribed synthetic hormone is levothyroxine, which is similar to the body's natural thyroid hormone, thyroxine (T4). Once ingested, levothyroxine is converted into triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of thyroid hormone, by the body

.Benefits of Thyroid Replacement Therapy

1. Restoring Hormonal Balance: The primary objective of thyroid replacement therapy is to restore hormonal balance in individuals with hypothyroidism. By providing the body with an appropriate amount of thyroid hormone, it helps alleviate the symptoms associated with an underactive thyroid, such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, and cognitive impairment.
2. Improved Metabolism: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism. When levels are low, the metabolism slows down, resulting in weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. Thyroid replacement therapy helps rev up the metabolism, aiding in weight management and boosting energy levels.
3. Enhanced Mental and Emotional Well-being: Hypothyroidism can impact mental health, leading to symptoms like depression, anxiety, and brain fog. By replenishing thyroid hormones, replacement therapy can improve cognitive function, lift mood, and enhance overall mental well-being.
4. Cardiovascular Health: Hypothyroidism is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Thyroid replacement therapy helps maintain optimal thyroid hormone levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

 Challenges with using only T4 Therapy

Most people will do poorly on levothyroxine therapy only. The major reason is that the body needs to convert the t4 to the active form of thyroid which is T3.  Stress, metabolic syndrome, poor diet, environmental toxins all negatively affect the ability to convert t4 to t3.  Standard thyroid labs that only look at TSH and free t4 levels in serum often miss treatment goals because they fail to look at free t3 and reverse t3 levels.  The ratio between free t3 and reverse T3 is a much greater indicator of overall thyroid function. Using t3 only therapy or a combination of t4 and t3 that is specifically compounded for the individual patient provides for an improved clinical response vs t4 only therapy. It is vitally important to check these levels to get a more comprehensive view of the clinical picture.  Often patients feel much better when they are at the high end of range of free t3 (3.6 and above) and a low normal range of reverse t3 (between 8-12)

Addressing antibodies (TgAB and TPOAb)

Initial thyroid labs should always include testing for thyroid antibodies, both Thyroglobulin Antibodies and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies.  If these are elevated, the thyroid condition could be classified as more of an auto-immune issue than a thyroid issue. Elevated antibodies indicate that the immune system is up-regulated and this needs to be addressed first.  Often necessary steps include: gluten free diet, elimination of dairy products, healing the lining of the gut, and calming the immune system.  This process can take upwards of 90-150 days to adequately address and fix. Thyroid therapy can be used during this time, but therapy will likely have to be modified as the immune system re-regulates.   Certain supplements such as Selenium, moducare, and Gut healing protocols are extremely beneficial as well as the compounded medication  Low dose Naltrexone (or LDN) 

Testing for Ferritin and Vitamin D

Both ferritin and vitamin D work at the thyroid receptor of each cell.  Vitamin D levels should be between 60-80 (optimal levels) and Ferritin levels should be 80-200. Ferritin levels below 40 is often associated with hair loss and ferritin levels below 80 are often associated with the inability to grow new hair.  Iron bis-glycinate as supplement works well to increase ferritin. The dose of iron bis-glycinate is dependent on how low the ferritin level is at testing.  It normally takes about 90 days to adequately raise levels so retesting at the 90 day mark is crucial.  Vitamin D supplementation is recommended at 5000-1000 IU daily depending on levels at testing.  Vitamin D should be taken in combination with Vitamin K to maintain proper calcium regulation.

Considerations and Precautions

While thyroid replacement therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Individualized Treatment: Each person's thyroid hormone requirements may vary. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the correct dosage and monitor hormone levels regularly.
2. Medication Timing: Thyroid medication is typically taken on an empty stomach, as certain foods (foods containing calcium or iron)  and medications can interfere with its absorption. It is best to consult a healthcare provider for specific instructions on when and how to take the medication.
3. Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is essential to ensure optimal dosage and effectiveness. Adjustments in medication dosage may be required based on changes in the individual's health, lifestyle, and hormonal levels.
4. Potential Side Effects: While side effects are uncommon, some individuals may experience symptoms such as palpitations, irritability, or excessive sweating. Consulting a healthcare professional can help address these concerns promptly.

Conclusion

Thyroid replacement therapy has revolutionized the management of hypothyroidism, enabling individuals to regain their vitality and overall well-being. By restoring hormonal balance and addressing the underlying deficiencies, it helps alleviate symptoms and reduces the risk of complications associated with an underactive thyroid. Remember, proper medical guidance and regular monitoring are essential for optimizing the benefits of thyroid replacement therapy. If you suspect you may have hypothyroidism, consult your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.