Hashimoto’s and Thyroid Health Treatment in Chicago

The thyroid’s main responsibility and function is to produce 2 hormones: T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). These hormones are responsible for a multitude of bodily processes and functions, including:

• Stable metabolic activity
• Natural human growth and development
• Heart rate and blood pressure regulation
• Body temperature maintenance
• Nervous system stability

There are many possible culprits to thyroid problems. To understand your individual thyroid-specific issue, please consult with Dr. Rajka or your primary care physician. Some underlying causes of thyroid issues include:

• Thyroid gland inflammation
• Genetic predisposition
• A deficiency/lack of nutrients like:  iodine, zinc, selenium and iron
• Medication complications
• Exposures to everyday toxins

Thyroid disease is an umbrella term used to describe three primary diseases that affect the thyroid, a small gland in the human neck. The 3 primary types of thyroid disease include:

• Hyperthyroidism: Caused by the thyroid producing too much of the thyroid hormone, conditions may include anxiety, rapid weight loss, heart rate spikes, and overactive sweating.
• Hypothyroidism: Caused by the thyroid producing too LITTLE of the thyroid hormone, conditions can include weight gain, lethargy, and muscle pain.
• Thyroid Cancer: A rare cancer that begins in the thyroid gland.

If diagnosed with either hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s Disease, one’s diet is an essential way to control its impacts. Specifically, consider lowering your processed food intake, increasing your intake of foods that reduce inflammation, limiting gluten and red meat, and consuming lots of lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, and whole foods.