Tackling Menopause and thyroid health

It’s easy when you are perimenopausal and menopausal to think that every symptom you are experiencing is simply down to the changing levels of oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, however, it may be worth considering the impact of other hormone fluctuations on our bodies, especially when the symptoms can overlap and mic each other.

Low thyroid function

Let’s consider this month, thyroid function, it has a crucial part to play in bone health and metabolism. Low thyroid function is associated with fatigue, weight gain, dry skin and hair, low mood poor concentration and memory and constipation and high cholesterol.

Overactive thyroid function

Overactive thyroid function is associated with fatigue, sweating, heat intolerance, weight loss, difficulty sleeping, heart palpitations and anxiety. It’s easy to see the overlap with symptoms of the menopause.

It is common for menopausal women to have an underactive thyroid gland, in 12-20% of women over the age of 60 will have an underactive thyroid function. Iodine is needed for Healthy thyroid function, natural sources include eggs, milk, cheese and fish.

Poor thyroid function affects our levels of Vit B12, Vit D, Folate and Ferritin. If you think you may have a thyroid imbalance, then you will need to see your doctor who will undertake the most appropriate blood tests.