Do You Have A Thyroid Problem Aggravating Your PCOS?

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I’m often asked questions about thyroid function because for many women with PCOS, there is a thyroid problem. It’s not surprising really, given that hypothyroidism and thyroid autoimmune dis-ease are more commonly found in women with PCOS.

And according to Evanthia Diamanti-Kandarakis co-author of Insulin Resistance and Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome: Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Treatment, p325, “decreased SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globule) and increased free testosterone levels and altered estradiol (an estrogen) metabolism have been described in hypothyroid patients, whereas PCO (Polycystic Ovaries) has been detected in 36.5% of hypothyroid patients”.

The authors of this study believe that when you have poor thyroid function, this changes how your genes are expressed. That the genes which get expressed bring about the changes seen in a woman with PCOS.

How Do You Know If You Have A Thyroid Problem?

Some Signs & Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (an under-active thyroid) include:

• Fatigue, lethargy
• Muscle weakness, pain & cramps
• Cold intolerance, cold hands/feet
• Goiter (swelling over the thyroid)
• Weight gain
• Frequent infections
• Depression
• Puffiness around the eyes
• Menstrual irregularities and infertility
• High cholesterol
• ’Brain fog’ and indecisiveness
• Dry skin and hair
• Hair loss from scalp and eyebrows
• Slowed heartbeat / pulse
• Hoarse voice
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Poor memory, poor concentration
• Chronic constipation
• Irritability
• Throat pain, or a tender feeling
• Slow reflexes
• Fluid retention

What tests should you have?

I recommend a full panel of TSH, T4, T3, reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies, but most practitioners only refer for TSH – at least to start. The problem is, the range usually given on the path lab results are FAR to broad. Take a look at your own results, your TSH should ideally sit between 1 to 2-2.5IU/L.

What Can You Do To Help Your Thyroid Function Better?

The leading cause of hypothyroidism worldwide is insufficient iodine intake. How can you increase your intake of this important nutrient? Iodine: sushi, oysters, scallops, kelp, fish paste, and if you’re feeling adventurous sea vegetables, along with foods such as radishes, onions, cocoa powder and watercress

You also need sufficient levels of other nutrients like zinc, selenium, omega 3 fatty acids.

Natural PCOS treatments and natural thyroid treatments are very effective.

As always, feel free to share or forward on this post.

Until next time…

From PCOS to perfect health, with love,

Dr. Rebecca Harwin
The PCOS Expert
Chiropractor & Bestselling Author of
Conquer Your PCOS Naturally
www.ConquerYourPCOSNaturally.com

P.S. For more success strategies and scientific secrets, head to our Facebook page and hit ‘like’. There is so much more I have to share with you to balance your PCOS hormones!

 

 

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