Hypothyroidism: Symptoms, Causes, and Functional Medicine Treatments

Hypothyroidism is one of the most common thyroid conditions worldwide. It occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to keep your body running efficiently. This slows down metabolism and can affect nearly every system in the body.

At Integrative Wellness Centers, we approach hypothyroidism holistically, combining conventional diagnostics with functional medicine strategies to address the root cause of thyroid imbalance. Explore this article for a deeper understanding of hypothyroidism

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What Is Hypothyroidism?

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. It produces hormones—primarily T4 and T3—that regulate metabolism, energy production, temperature, and even mood.

When the thyroid becomes underactive, hormone levels drop and you may experience fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, or depression. The most common cause of hypothyroidism in the U.S. is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Common Hypothyroidism Symptoms

Recognizing the signs early is crucial for effective treatment. Hypothyroidism symptoms may include:

• Persistent fatigue or sluggishness
  
  
• Weight gain despite no major dietary changes
  
  
• Feeling cold even in warm temperatures
  
  
• Dry skin, brittle nails, and thinning hair
  
  
• Hoarseness or swelling in the neck
  
  
• Slow heart rate
  
  
• Constipation
  
  
• Brain fog, memory issues, or low mood

Because symptoms develop gradually, they are often overlooked or attributed to stress or aging. Our blog on functional medicine signs dives deeper into early warning signs to watch for. Read more about top 4 Signs Your Thyroid Might Be the Problem

Root Causes of Hypothyroidism

Functional medicine focuses on why the thyroid is underactive. Common underlying causes include:

• Autoimmunity: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
  
  
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Iodine, selenium, zinc, or iron
  
  
• Chronic Stress: Elevated cortisol can disrupt thyroid hormone conversion
  
  
• Gut Health Imbalances: Leaky gut or dysbiosis triggering immune responses
  
  
• Toxin Exposure: Heavy metals, pesticides, or endocrine disruptors
  
  
• Medications: Lithium or amiodarone can suppress thyroid function
  
  

Exploring these root causes allows us to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique biology.

Hypothyroidism Treatments

Conventional treatment usually involves levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement. While effective, many patients still report symptoms despite “normal” lab results.

At Integrative Wellness Centers, we combine prescription options with lifestyle and nutrition strategies:

• Personalized Thyroid Hormone Therapy – T4 or combination T4/T3 therapy based on labs and symptoms
  
  
• Nutritional Support – Selenium, iodine, vitamin D, and other key nutrients
  
  
• Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Reducing gluten, processed foods, and inflammatory triggers
  
  
• Stress Management – Mind-body practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques
  
  
• Gut Health Restoration – Probiotics and functional stool testing to reduce autoimmunity triggers
  
  

Learn more about our integrative approach to thyroid health.

Lifestyle Tips for Supporting Thyroid Health

1. Eat a nutrient-dense diet with plenty of vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats
   
   
2. Avoid excessive goitrogens (raw cruciferous vegetables) if you have iodine deficiency
   
   
3. Prioritize sleep – aim for 7–9 hours per night
   
   
4. Manage stress through daily relaxation practices
   
   
5. Get regular movement – gentle exercise can improve hormone balance
   
   
6. Work with a functional medicine provider to monitor labs and symptoms

When to See a Specialist

Consider seeing a thyroid or functional medicine specialist if you:

• Have ongoing fatigue despite normal thyroid labs
  
  
• Experience difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain
  
  
• Notice swelling in your neck or suspect a goiter
  
  
• Have multiple autoimmune conditions
  
  
• Experience infertility, irregular cycles, or recurrent pregnancy loss
  
  

📅 Schedule a consultation today to get a personalized thyroid health plan.

Ready to Take Control of Your Thyroid Health?

Don’t settle for “normal” labs when you still feel unwell. A comprehensive, integrative approach can make all the difference. ➡ Schedule your appointment at Integrative Wellness Centers and take the first step toward balanced energy, better mood, and a healthier metabolism.

Dr. Josh Shields, D.C., C.F.M.P. Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner Supporting natural healing since 2003

Frequently Asked Questions About Hypothyroidism

1. What is the difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid; hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid.

2. Can hypothyroidism be reversed naturally?
Some root causes—like nutrient deficiencies or stress—can be improved, but lifelong monitoring is recommended.

3. What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
It’s an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid gland and is the leading cause of hypothyroidism.

4. How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
Through blood tests measuring TSH, Free T4, Free T3, and thyroid antibodies.

5. Can diet help hypothyroidism?
Yes, anti-inflammatory and nutrient-rich diets can support thyroid function.

6. Is hypothyroidism common after pregnancy?
Yes, postpartum thyroiditis can occur within the first year after giving birth.

7. Should I see a functional medicine doctor or endocrinologist?
Both are helpful—functional medicine focuses on root causes, while endocrinologists manage hormone therapy.

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