Thyroid Tests

Many people don't really know where their thyroid is let alone how it works. In fact most health care professionals don't really understand thyroid function. This page is here to help break down the steps required for proper thyroid function. The video below helps to shed some light on this complex subject.

There are a few different thyroid markers that we will talk about on this page, but the thyroid hormone that your body actually uses is called T3. T3 is the only active form of thyroid hormone. There are essentially ten steps in the cycle of thyroid function. Each step is critical and each needs to be evaluated to see if your system is working correctly.

Step 1: The activity of serotonin and dopamine in the hypothalamus triggers the release of TRH (thyroid releasing hormone) which stimulates the pituitary gland.

Step 2: The pituitary gland is stimulated by TRH to release TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) which stimulates TPO (thyroid peroxidase enzyme) in the thyroid.

Step 3: Proper TPO enzyme activity

Step 4: Proper iodine uptake to the thyroid

Step 5: The thyroid produces approximately 93% T4 and 7% T3 which is then bound to a protein for transport.

Step 6: Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) must be able to bind to their transport proteins and also must be properly released from their transport proteins.

Step 7: 5'-deiodinase enzyme must be available to help convert T4 into T3, Reverse T3, T3S, and T3AC. Most of this happens in the liver and converts around 40% of the T4 into active T3.

Step 8: Healthy intestinal activity helps convert T3S and T3AC into active T3.

Step 9: Receptor sites on your cells must be sensitive to binding thyroid hormone (T3).

Step 10: Cells must respond to thyroid hormone activity.

If you're feeling a little confused it's ok. Most trained health care professionals don't understand thyroid function or the ten steps listed above very well either. The reality is that you don't really need to understand thyroid function, but your doctor does. If they are not well versed in the steps of thyroid hormone production, it's unlikely that all that can be done for you is being done.

The Orlando Thyroid Project

The health professionals at the Orlando Thyroid Project are fully trained in thyroid function at every level. Each client of the Orlando Thyroid Project at Integrative Health of Orlando is tested thoroughly to get to the source of the problem. This type of in depth work is the reason our clients get the outstanding results that they do.

If you are struggling with thyroid problems and you are frustrated with the standard of care, the Orlando Thyroid Project is here to help you take control of your health again. Call today to attend one of our complimentary thyroid classes. You deserve the very best!