In the News
The symptoms of menopause and thyroid dysfunction overlap! A recent position paper from the European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) highlights that many of the symptoms can be the same, such as menstrual irregularities, mood changes, increased sweating, sleep disturbances, and hair loss.
One other key overlap is the change in lipid metabolism, which can lead to fatty liver. The position paper states that menopausal hormone replacement therapy and thyroid hormone replacement may both improve lipid metabolism when given based on individual assessments.
I take this report as an excellent reminder that all of our body systems interact—particularly when it comes to hormones and metabolism.
Lagniappe Health Tip
Trace minerals are essential for thyroid function—which relates to your metabolism, mood, and more (see below for more on what the thyroid does!) Here are 4 nutrients the thyroid needs:
🔸Iodine (in seaweed, seafood, and iodized salt)
🔸Magnesium (in nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables)
🔸Selenium (in Brazil nuts, organ meats, and seafood)
🔸Zinc (in pumpkin seeds, oysters, and meat)
Whether or not you have thyroid concerns, eating nutrient-dense foods can help to optimize your thyroid function.
Did You Know?
Your thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your neck that regulates metabolism (how your body uses energy) but also influences….
…metabolic rate, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, gut motility, mental function, mood, menstruation, fertility, and more!
Signs of an overactive thyroid include feeling anxious or irritable, difficulty sleeping, racing heart, shaking hands, clammy skin, sensitivity to heat, unexplained weight loss (or gain), or irregular periods.
Signs of an underactive thyroid include feeling tired all the time, mood swings, brain fog, dry skin, hair loss, brittle nails, constipation, sensitivity to cold, unexplained weight gain, or heavy periods.
The only way to know is to test. Take control of your health!
➡️Have a conversation with your primary care provider about these nagging signs and symptoms.
➡️Schedule a nutrition therapy session to learn how to optimize your nutrition to support your thyroid.
A Lagniappe Lifestyle offers nutrition therapy covered by insurance. Book a visit with Robin or Mindy and get the ball rolling!
