Overview
This episode features Dr. Elizabeth Bright, an osteopath and naturopath, discussing the thyroid's pivotal role in health, common thyroid dysfunction symptoms, and her dietary protocol for thyroid healing, with a strong emphasis on a high-fat carnivore diet and iodine supplementation.
Thyroid Function and Importance
- The thyroid acts as the conductor for multiple bodily functions, affecting metabolism, energy, brain function, heart, and liver.
- Thyroid dysfunctions (hypo and hyper) are increasingly common and not limited by gender or age.
- Thyroid hormone affects gene expression, especially during fetal development.
Common Thyroid Conditions
- Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism share root causes—primarily nutrient deficiencies and inflammation.
- Hashimoto’s and Graves’ diseases are autoimmune thyroid conditions; both stem from immune system dysregulation rather than genetics.
- Traditional testing may overlook symptoms due to narrow diagnostic criteria.
Symptoms of Thyroid Issues
- Unexplained weight changes, high cholesterol, heart rate abnormalities, memory issues, brain fog, hair/eyebrow thinning, dry skin, puffy face, bowel changes, and temperature irregularities.
- Many symptoms, including migraines or reproductive disorders, may be linked to undiagnosed thyroid issues.
Dietary Protocols and Foods Affecting Thyroid
- Plants like broccoli, kale, cabbage, soy, flax seeds, yams, and oats impair iodine absorption and may inflame the thyroid.
- Dairy and gluten are also considered inflammatory for the thyroid.
- Stimulants (tea, coffee, spices, nuts, artificial sweeteners) and environmental toxins (fluoride, PFAS) negatively impact thyroid health.
- High-fat animal products are promoted; plant-based sources and most nuts are discouraged.
Solutions and Recommendations
- Advocates for a high-fat carnivore diet (80% fat/20% protein for inflamed women; slightly less fat for men).
- Fat is anti-inflammatory and supports adrenal function, essential for hormone regulation.
- Iodine supplementation (e.g., Lugol’s solution) is recommended for nearly everyone due to environmental iodine antagonists.
- Salt loading is advised alongside iodine to aid detoxification.
- Natural desiccated thyroid (from pig thyroid) preferred over synthetic levothyroxine for supplementation.
Thyroid Testing and Medications
- TSH alone is not a reliable indicator; recommend testing free T3, free T4, and both thyroid antibodies.
- Blood pressure medications, cannabis, and stress affect the conversion of T4 to active T3.
- Natural desiccated thyroid is preferred; synthetic T4 medications may not sufficiently address tissue needs.
Fasting, Stress, and Lifestyle
- Fasting and high-stress activities raise cortisol and may worsen thyroid/adrenal health.
- Patterns of regular, high-fat meals are suggested over restrictive eating or extreme fasting.
Decisions
- Advocate High-Fat Carnivore Diet as the central dietary recommendation for thyroid health.
- Recommend Iodine Supplementation for most people due to widespread environmental inhibitors.
- Prefer Natural Desiccated Thyroid over synthetic options for hormone replacement.
Action Items
- TBD – Patients: Request comprehensive thyroid testing (free T3, free T4, thyroid antibodies) from healthcare provider.
- TBD – Individuals: Evaluate and consider reducing consumption of goitrogenic plants, stimulants, and processed foods.
- TBD – Individuals: Consult with a thyroid specialist for personalized iodine dosing if currently experiencing thyroid issues.
- TBD – Podcast Audience: Access Dr. Bright’s resources and research via her website or the Primal Labs link.
Recommendations / Advice
- Prioritize fat intake, especially for women or individuals with high stress or inflammation.
- Avoid daily intake of foods that inhibit iodine absorption or promote inflammation.
- If on thyroid medication, discuss with provider the potential benefits of natural desiccated thyroid.
- Do not rely solely on TSH for thyroid assessment; ensure comprehensive testing is performed.