When it comes to quality of life, the thyroid is an important gland for energy, hormonal control, immunity and overall wellbeing....yet we constantly see in our community people suffering from thyroid issues. In this article, I explore what the role of the thyroid is in the body and how to balance its function holistically.
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck that plays a big role in our overall health. It produces hormones—primarily T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine)—which regulate metabolism, energy levels, mood, body temperature, and cognitive function. T3 is the more biologically active hormone, and much of it is converted from T4 in the liver, gut, and other peripheral tissues.
When thyroid function is compromised, symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, brain fog, depression, and increased sensitivity to cold. This condition is called hypothyroidism. In contrast, hyperthyroidism causes symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and restlessness.
Naturopathic Testing for the Thyroid
Many standard thyroid tests only measure TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). While this can provide some insight, it’s often not enough. Naturopaths take a more comprehensive view, testing for:
- Free T3: the active thyroid hormone, crucial for energy and metabolism
- Free T4: the storage hormone that converts into T3
- Reverse T3: a metabolically inactive hormone that can block T3’s action
- Thyroid antibodies (TPO and TgAb): to detect autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease
This broader approach helps detect thyroid dysfunction earlier and offers a more accurate picture of what's really going on.
Check out my quick 5 tips to improve THYROID function.
Toxins and the Thyroid
Our modern environment exposes us to a variety of chemicals that can disrupt thyroid function. Halides like fluoride, chlorine, and bromine compete with iodine (which the thyroid needs to make hormones). Heavy metals such as mercury and lead, along with BPA and pesticides, can interfere with thyroid hormone production and receptor function.
Supporting detoxification—especially through the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system—is a critical part of restoring thyroid balance. This includes dietary support, hydration, herbal detoxification, and minimizing toxin exposure.
Food Sensitivities and the Thyroid
Gluten sensitivity is commonly linked to autoimmune thyroid conditions, particularly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In some individuals, the body mistakes thyroid tissue for gluten due to molecular mimicry, leading to inflammation and gradual damage to the gland.
Other common food sensitivities that may trigger thyroid dysfunction include dairy, soy, corn, and processed foods. An elimination diet or food intolerance testing may be helpful in identifying problematic foods.
Hormonal Imbalance, Stress, and Sleep
The thyroid works in concert with the adrenal and reproductive glands. Chronic stress leads to high cortisol levels, which can suppress the conversion of T4 to T3. Estrogen dominance may increase thyroid-binding globulin (TBG), which binds thyroid hormones and makes them less available. Low progesterone can also disrupt this delicate hormonal dance.
Poor sleep further stresses the system, disrupting pituitary signaling to the thyroid and impairing overall hormonal regulation. Getting quality, restorative sleep is essential for thyroid and whole-body health.
Super Mushrooms and Greens: A Naturopathic Ally
One exceptional supplement for thyroid support is Super Mushrooms and Greens. This formula includes:
- Bladderwrack: a natural source of iodine, which is vital for thyroid hormone production
- Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, chaga, cordyceps, and lion’s mane: these support immunity, stress resilience, and cellular detox
- Alkalizing greens like spirulina, chlorella, and barley grass: rich in antioxidants and micronutrients that aid in detoxification and tissue repair
Super Mushrooms and Greens supports thyroid function by replenishing iodine, supporting liver detoxification, and reducing oxidative stress. It’s an ideal daily support formula, especially for individuals dealing with thyroid fatigue or immune dysregulation.
Other Key Supplements for Thyroid Support
In addition to Super Mushrooms and Greens, these nutrients may be beneficial:
- L-Tyrosine: an amino acid building block for thyroid hormones
- Selenium: essential for converting T4 to T3 and reducing antibodies
- Zinc: needed for hormone production and immune function
- Omega-3 fatty acids: help reduce inflammation and improve receptor sensitivity
- Vitamin D: supports immune modulation and reduces risk of autoimmune thyroid conditions
- Iodine (in controlled doses): fundamental for thyroid hormone synthesis
- Happy Hormones: a plant-based supplement from Happy Healthy You that supports hormonal balance, which indirectly supports thyroid health
Diet and Lifestyle Tips
- Eat a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats
- Avoid processed foods and refined sugars
- Include selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts and mushrooms
- Stay hydrated with clean, fluoride-free water
- Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as yoga, meditation, and nature walks
- Prioritize quality sleep and consistent routines
Try our Nitric oxide practice for thyroid health.
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Vagal nerve stimulation: Humming activates the vagus nerve, which is a major part of the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) nervous system. The vagus nerve runs very close to the thyroid gland. By stimulating the vagus nerve through humming, chanting, singing, or gargling, you may improve overall autonomic balance, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing processes — including thyroid function indirectly.
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Improved blood flow: Humming creates gentle vibrations in the throat, which could enhance circulation and lymphatic drainage around the thyroid area. This may help deliver more nutrients and oxygen to the gland and assist detoxification.
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Stress reduction: Chronic stress (high cortisol) negatively impacts the thyroid by suppressing T4 to T3 conversion and promoting thyroid resistance. Humming, as a calming practice, helps lower cortisol and shift the nervous system into a healing state, which is crucial for thyroid health.
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Nitric oxide production: Studies suggest that humming increases nitric oxide production in the sinuses and airways. Nitric oxide has anti-inflammatory effects and improves oxygen delivery, which can indirectly benefit metabolic health — including thyroid function.
Final Thoughts
Thyroid health is not just about one gland; it’s about the entire hormonal and detoxification ecosystem. A holistic naturopathic approach looks at the root causes—whether environmental, nutritional, emotional, or hormonal—and offers a personalized path back to balance.
By detoxifying, supporting the right nutrients, eliminating dietary triggers, and enhancing rest and recovery, we can help the thyroid return to optimal function and restore overall vitality.
