By naturopath Margaret Jasinska

Did you know a hormone produced by your thyroid gland stimulates progesterone production in your ovaries?

Your thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate your metabolic rate, energy level, body temperature and much more. The two main hormones produced by the thyroid are T4 and T3. T3 is the active hormone and research shows it is necessary for the production of progesterone.

Thyroid conditions are far more common in women than men. This is thought to be because autoimmune conditions are more prevalent in women, and the vast majority of thyroid problems are due to autoimmunity. Additionally, iodine insufficiency is very common in women, and thyroid hormones are actually comprised of iodine, and the amino acid tyrosine.

Pregnancy, giving birth, and also menopause are life events that can trigger the development of a thyroid condition in genetically susceptible women. The condition can remain undiagnosed for quite some time, as women are often quite exhausted and sleep deprived at these times and put their symptoms down to that.

The two main female sex hormones are oestrogen and progesterone. Oestrogen dominates in the first half of the menstrual cycle and progesterone is the main hormone produced in the second half. Many women do not produce enough progesterone, and this can have terrible side effects. A lack of progesterone is linked to heavier menstrual bleeding, painful menstrual cramps and premenstrual mood changes. Progesterone is also critically important for fertility. Correcting progesterone insufficiency is important, but magnesium can also help. Magnesium may reduce symptoms of premenstrual tension and may help to ease muscle cramps and spasms.

Another benefit of progesterone is improved hair quality and quantity. The nutrients in Collagen Food powder also help to support healthy hair, skin and nails and collagen production.

Interestingly, research also shows that thyroid antibodies can inhibit progesterone production. That’s why it’s so important to have complete and thorough blood tests. If you are concerned about the health of your thyroid gland, or you experience sex hormone imbalances or menstrual problems, please ask your doctor for a blood test that includes thyroid antibodies and free T3. If your doctor is not helping you, contact us.

For information about thyroid health, blood tests and how to interpret them, see our book Your Thyroid Problems Solved. To support your thyroid gland, you may benefit from Thyroid Health capsules. They are an easy and economical way to obtain vitamin D, selenium, iodine and zinc.

Reference