Symptoms of hypothyroidism
- Extreme fatigue: you sleep for 10 hours and wake up exhausted. The extremely slow metabolism prevents real recovery.
- Unexplained weight gain: You eat the same amount but your metabolism burns up to 30% fewer calories.
- Hair loss: Low thyroid hormone slows down the hair growth cycle. More hair in the shower.
- Constant cold: Your body doesn’t generate enough heat. You need a sweater when others are wearing short sleeves.
- Cloudy mind and memory problems: thyroid hormone directly affects brain function.
- Dry skin and constipation: the whole system slows down, including skin and digestion.
- Depression: thyroid hormone affects neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.
- Irregular menstrual cycle: in women, the cycle becomes unpredictable or stops.
The causes of hypothyroidism
- Hashimoto’s disease (autoimmune): . More common in women over 40.
- Iodine or selenium deficiency: the thyroid needs both minerals to function.
- Previous thyroid surgery or radiation.
- Medications: amiodarone, lithium, some antidepressants.
- Chronic stress: depletes the thyroid axis over time.
Hyperthyroidism: The Rapid Thyroid (Less Common But Serious)
Hyperthyroidism accounts for 20% of thyroid problems. It is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 50.
The most common cause is Graves’ disease (an autoimmune disorder), followed by autonomous thyroid nodules and thyroiditis. If you suspect hyperthyroidism, see a doctor without delay —persistent palpitations can lead to arrhythmia.
How to Diagnose It (The Test That Solves Everything)
You don’t need to understand all the biochemistry. Your doctor will do a blood test to measure your TSH — the hormone that tells your thyroid to produce more or less.
High TSH → hypothyroidism (your body is trying to stimulate a slow thyroid).
Low TSH → hyperthyroidism (your body is trying to slow down an overactive thyroid).
If you have symptoms, ask for a TSH test . It’s simple, inexpensive, and definitive.
Natural Remedies for Hypothyroidism with Scientific Backing
Remedy 1: Selenium (The Most Evidenced)
. Selenium is an essential component of the enzyme that converts T4 to T3, the active form of the hormone.
Sources: 2-3 Brazil nuts daily (the most concentrated source), tuna, chicken, eggs. Or supplement: 200 mcg/day of selenomethionine.
Remedy 2: Adequate Iodine (With Caution)
The thyroid needs iodine to produce hormones. Without it, it cannot. But too much iodine is also harmful , especially in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Safe sources: iodized salt (it must say “iodized”), fish, shellfish, dairy products. The recommended daily intake is 150 mcg. Do not supplement with iodine without prior testing if you have thyroid autoimmunity.
