What Does The Thyroid Do?

What is your Thyroid Gland?

Your thyroid gland plays an essential role in your body, acting as the master control switch for general metabolism and energy use in the body. The thyroid makes up one part of the endocrine system. 

The endocrine system consists of glands located throughout the body that control almost all aspects of our metabolism and our body’s responses to stress. Imbalance in any part of this system can cause symptoms. A naturopathic doctor will work to bring these systems back into balance.

What Does Your Thyroid Do?

The hormones produced by the thyroid gland control the body’s basal metabolic rate, the rate at which it produces and burns energy. This can affect everything from growth and development to weight, neurological functioning, and energy levels. 

The thyroid produces hormones that travel throughout the body. They affect metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, energy production, and many other body systems. 

What Conditions Affect Your Thyroid?

Thyroid problems can be caused by an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) or an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Symptoms of hypothyroidism often slip by many doctors, which is why Dr. Cutler will explain how your lifestyle may influence your Thyroid health. These factors include but are not limited to:

• Lack of a balanced diet
• Lack of exercise
• Imbalanced hormones
• High-stress levels
• Insomnia/lack of sleep
• Auto-immune disorders
• Surgery
• Medications
• Iodine deficiency
• Pregnancy

How Do Naturopathic Doctors Treat Thyroid Problems?

Dr. Cutler looks at the whole person to determine what may be impacting your Thyroid. Treatments may include lifestyle changes and, if necessary, natural thyroid hormone replacement.