Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits
As we observe Thyroid Awareness Month, it’s a timely opportunity to shine a light on the little-but‐mighty gland in your neck, the thyroid gland, and how its health touches nearly every system in your body.
Why Your Thyroid Matters
Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck. This tiny powerhouse produces hormones (T3 and T4) that control your metabolism, energy levels, heart rate, temperature, and even mood. When your thyroid is out of balance, your whole body feels it. Too little of the hormones (hypothyroidism) can slow everything down, while too much (hyperthyroidism) can make your body speed up.
Common Signs of Thyroid Issues
Possible signs of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism):
- Unexplained fatigue or sluggishness
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Feeling cold often
- Dry skin or hair loss
- Constipation or slowed digestion
- Depression or brain fog
Possible signs of an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism):
- Unexpected weight loss
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling hot or sweating excessively
- Anxiety or irritability
- Tremors or hand shaking
- Difficulty sleeping
Who’s at Risk
Thyroid disorders can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to develop them:
- Women (especially over age 40)
- People with a family history of thyroid disease
- Those with autoimmune conditions (like Type 1 diabetes or celiac disease)
- Pregnant or recently postpartum women
- People exposed to radiation to the neck or upper chest
Questions to Ask Your Health Care Provider
Bring these questions to your next visit to feel confident about your care:
- What do my thyroid lab results mean and what are my target levels?
- Should I have additional tests like free T4 or thyroid antibody screening?
- How often should my thyroid be monitored?
- If I start thyroid medication, how and when should I take it?
- Can my diet, supplements, or other medications interfere with treatment?
- Are there lifestyle changes that support thyroid health (sleep, stress, nutrition)?
Healthy Habits for a Happy Thyroid
- Take prescribed medication consistently: Levothyroxine works best on an empty stomach (30–60 minutes before breakfast or at bedtime).
- Eat a balanced diet: Get enough iodine, selenium, and zinc from whole foods (seafood, eggs, nuts, and legumes).
- Watch supplement timing: Avoid taking calcium or iron within 4 hours of thyroid medication.
- Manage stress and get enough sleep: Both can affect hormone balance.
- Stay consistent with checkups: Regular labs help keep your thyroid in balance.
Your thyroid may be small, but it plays an extensive role in how you feel every day. Ask your healthcare provider about thyroid testing if you experience the symptoms above or have risk factors. Early diagnosis can make a big difference. Thyroid issues are highly treatable once identified.
References:
American Thyroid Association www.thyroid.org/
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases www.niddk.nih.gov/
Mayo Clinic www.mayoclinic.org/
