Hmm, what makes me single out one organ and devote a whole article to it? Why the thyroid, of all things? As a kinesiologist, I regularly assess physical and emotional imbalances, and certain patterns emerge: An increased need for iodine or a compromised thyroid is found in a surprisingly large number of women. A study by the Papillon Initiative confirms this impression: almost one in two women over the age of 45 has abnormal thyroid test results.
Every second woman over 45 is affected
The figures are alarming: 48.7 % of women over 45 are affected. Experts even estimate that one in three adults suffers from thyroid disorders.
Problems despite normal blood values
The tricky thing is that symptoms are often non-specific, and blood tests frequently show nothing, as the reference ranges often merely reflect the average for a population that may already be partially affected by the condition. When doctors rely solely on laboratory results, they often fail to spot the symptoms. Fatigue, weight gain, a lack of energy or hair problems can have a massive impact on your life, even if the lab results give the „all-clear“.
The butterfly-shaped control centre
The thyroid gland regulates all metabolic processes via hormones. A malfunction puts the heart and blood vessels at risk. In the case of an underactive thyroid, fat is deposited more quickly in the blood vessels, which increases the risk of a heart attack. In the case of an overactive thyroid, the heart is constantly under strain.
Image source: pixabay.com/JanBaby
Hyperthyroidism
This is when your body is working at full speed. Typical signs include:
- Irritability, restlessness, nervousness
- Sleep disorders and hair loss
- Excessive sweating and weight loss despite eating normally
- Persistently elevated heart rate
Hypothyroidism
Metabolism slows down, which particularly affects women in the second half of their lives. Look out for these symptoms (which occur in 70 % of those affected):
- Lack of energy, lethargy and extreme tiredness
- Dry, rough skin and sensitivity to the cold
- A puffy face and bags under the eyes
Further symptoms in 50 % of those affected:
- Brittle hair and a low pulse
- Forgetfulness and problems with losing weight
- Depressive moods and joint pain
Image source: pixabay.com/JerzyGorecki
Recognising hypofunction
According to experts, if two or more of these points apply, this often indicates an underactive thyroid:
- Morning temperature (basal body temperature) below 36.6°
- Slowed muscle reflexes (e.g. Achilles tendon)
- A swollen face and sluggish movements
The thyroid gland and the desire to have children
Undiagnosed disorders have a massive impact on fertility. Around 25 % of women with fertility problems have a thyroid disorder. It is therefore worth taking a closer look at this.
Why, why, why - and what can be done?
Don’t just rely on standard tests. If your body is sending you signals, see a specialist. Next week, you’ll find out here how you can actively boost your thyroid function.
