Illustration of the thyroid gland, highlighting its location in front of the trachea with a glowing effect.

Thyroid Resistance

Most conventional physicians primarily diagnose low thyroid by measuring the TSH level. While this test is useful for detecting a weak thyroid gland, it does not assess how efficiently the body utilizes or activates thyroid hormone. This inefficiency is known as "thyroid resistance."

Symptoms of Low Thyroid / Thyroid Resistance

  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • PMS
  • Fluid retention
  • Depression
  • Hair loss
  • Impaired memory/concentration
  • Constipation
  • Irritable bowel
  • Weight gain
  • Dry skin/hair
  • Allergies
  • Muscle and joint aches
  • Elevated cholesterol
  • Increased nicotine/caffeine use
  • Heat and/or cold intolerance
  • Frequent colds/sore throat
  • Cold hands/feet
  • Infertility
  • Easy bruising
  • Slow wound healing

Understanding Thyroid Function and Treatment

The thyroid gland primarily produces the T4 hormone, which the body activates into T3 (the active hormone) and reverse T3 (which slows down metabolism). The balance between T3 and reverse T3 is essential for determining your metabolism's stimulation from the thyroid. Measuring these levels is crucial for developing an appropriate treatment plan, which may include herbal supplements.

Further Insights on Thyroid Health

For more information on thyroid health, consider these insightful resources: 

  • Overcoming Thyroid Disorders by David Brownstein, M.D.
  • Hypothyroidism, The Unsuspected Illness by Broda Barnes, M.D.
  • The Patients Guide to Nutritional Healing by Jonathan V. Wright, M.D.