Pathophysiologic changes that occur in hypothyroidism are caused by either damage to the thyroid, pituitary gland dysfunction, or problems with the hypothalamus. The thyroid regulates the body’s metabolism and produces two hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) through the extraction of iodine in the blood. T3 and T4 production is regulated by the thyroid through a feedback loop with the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary gland, also known as the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. Any disruption to the feedback loop causes dysregulation of the T3 and T4 hormones, resulting in altered metabolic processes, since every cell in the body relies on thyroid hormones for metabolism (Moore, 2018).
There are many herbs and supplements that can promote a healthy thyroid, such as iodine, selenium, vitamin D, glutathione, zinc, ashwaganda, and myrrh. These supplements affect the thyroid gland directly and supply key nutrients for proper thyroid function. For instance, iodine’s only role in the body is to be used in the creation of thyroid hormones. Both too little and too much iodine can impair the function of the thyroid. Before recommending supplementation with various supplements, it is prudent to order blood levels to check for deficiencies as a first step. This way, there will be no overdosing of supplements, since even though they are over-the-counter, they are still potent and may cause adverse effects. Getting a baseline of blood levels will allow the practitioner to know which supplements should be recommended and which should not, thus circumventing the any possible legal repercussions (Murray, 2003).
Moore, D. (2018). Hypothyroidism and nursing care. American Nurse Today, 13(2), 44–46. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.csusm.edu/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ccm&AN=128142428&site=ehost-live
Murray MT. (2003). The thyroid gland -- could be your key to managing your moods, energy and stress levels. Total Health, 25(4), 16–17. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.csusm.edu/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ccm&AN=106720068&site=ehost-live