The thyroid gland, a wonder of natural bioengineering, influences a host of body functions that can create imbalances in the metabolism of every cell in the body with tiny changes in thyroid and hormone function. Without thyroid regulation, cells will not have the strength to nourish themselves or do their work, such as making energy and repairing other cells.

Medical statistics suggest that 30 to 50 percent of the U.S. population lacks healthy thyroid function, yet many cases remain undiagnosed and untreated, while some are treated without significant results.

The Mayo Clinic provides these common signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism: fatigue and sluggishness; increased sensitivity to cold; constipation; unexplained weight gain; muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness; and depression. Other indicators of possible thyroid issues include high cholesterol, hormone imbalances, slow healing of minor injuries and hair loss or thinning.

Lab tests can help diagnose a thyroid issue. However, if only thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and the T4 hormone are tested, the results could look normal without identifying Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition of the thyroid, or other thyroid-related issues. Many of the symptoms labeled thyroid are more accurately characterized as pituitary-hormone-thyroid-adrenal-immune-detoxification issues, which is why thyroid medications do not always alleviate the symptoms.

One of the most comprehensive books available on thyroid factors is Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms When My Lab Tests are Normal? by Dr. Datis Kharrazian. Written partly for patients, partly for physicians, it helps prepare patients to ask their physicians better questions regarding testing and about alternatives for treatment.

Sherron Marquina, DC, PAK, is a board-certified Professional Applied Kinesiologist and owner of Health InSyncs, located at 9210 Forest Hill Ave., Ste. B-3. For additional information, call 804-377-222 or visit HealthInSyncs.com.