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Our thyroid gland is responsible for regulating almost all of the metabolic processes that take place in the body. It mainly influences energy level, hormone regulation, body weight and temperature, metabolism, and even mental health. When thyroid hormone levels change, every organ and system in the body is affected, including the brain, heart, the gut, and the muscles. Thyroid disorders stem from either an overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones.
With hyperthyroidism, one might experience:
· Weight loss
· Increased heart rate and palpitations
· Hypertension
· Anxiety
· Muscle weakness
· Insomnia
· Diarrhea
· Lighter and shorter menstrual periods
With Hypothyroidism:
· Weight gain
· Lethargy
· Slower mental processes and depression
· Sensitivity to cold
· Dry skin and hair
· Hair loss
· Constipation
· Heavy menstrual periods
According to statistics taken by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), an estimated 27 million Americans are suffering with a thyroid disorder. It is the most common endocrine disorder in the U.S., prevailing even over diabetes. Approximately 80% of thyroid disease is experienced by women, hypothyroidism being far more prevalent, in 8 out of 10 cases.
Acupuncture used as part of an integrative treatment plan, or as a stand-alone treatment, can be very effective at addressing the cause and symptoms of thyroid disease. In fact, acupuncture is recommended by the World Health Organization for thyroid disorders along with over 40 other conditions.
The goal of acupuncture is to assist the body in creating a state of homeostasis or balance in the system. In this state, the body can self-regulate and counteract the adverse effects of various stressors that are acting on the body daily, and can detrimentally inhibit or overstimulate our physiological functions. These stressors take our body out of balance and inhibit our ability to heal properly and make us vulnerable to disease. Studies show that acupuncture stimulates the brain and nervous system to help bring us back to this natural state of balance in the body. This includes triggering the release of various hormones, including thyroid hormone, in response to changing demands and conditions to be sure our body is functioning at it's best and getting what it needs when it needs it.
At IHC, your practitioner will tailor a treatment plan to fit your individual needs including: acupuncture, nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, and lifestyle and diet recommendations to support optimal thyroid health. Our goal is to encourage an overall state of health and balance in mind and body so that you can live life more fully. We look forward to working with you!
-Jessica Ellerman, L.Ac. (IHC Towson)
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