Thyroid Hypofunction - Primary
What Does It Mean?
Primary thyroid hypofunction occurs when the thyroid gland itself fails to produce adequate levels of thyroid hormones, leading to metabolic slowdown and systemic dysfunction. Unlike secondary hypothyroidism, which originates from pituitary dysfunction, primary hypothyroidism is caused by intrinsic thyroid gland impairment.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Autoimmune Thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s Disease) – The immune system attacks thyroid tissue, reducing hormone output.
- Iodine Deficiency – Insufficient iodine levels impair thyroid hormone synthesis.
- Chronic Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – Can lead to thyroid gland damage.
- Hormonal Imbalances – Excess estrogen can inhibit thyroid function.
- Nutrient Deficiencies – Selenium, magnesium, and zinc are essential for thyroid hormone production.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Cold intolerance and dry skin
- Unexplained weight gain
- Hair thinning and brittle nails
- Depression and cognitive impairment (“brain fog”)
- Slow heart rate and constipation
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Basophil Abs | Increased | 0.00-0.07 10(3)/uL |
| Calcium : Phosphorus Ratio | Altered | 2.30-3.20 Ratio |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Free Thyroxine Index | Decreased | 1.70-4.60 Index |
| Iodine Serum / Plasma | Decreased | 52.00-80.00 ug/L |
| Magnesium, Serum | Decreased | 2.20-2.50 mg/dL |
| T3-Uptake | Decreased | 27.00-35.00 % |
| T3, Free (Triiodothyronine) | Decreased | 3.00-3.50 pg/mL |
| T3, Total | Decreased | 90.00-168.00 ng/dL |
| T4, Free (Thyroxine) | Decreased | 1.00-1.50 ng/dL |
| T4, Total (Thyroxine) | Decreased | 6.00-11.90 µg/dL |
| Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) | Increased | 1.00-2.00 µU/mL |
| Triglycerides, Serum | Increased | 70.00-80.00 mg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Restoring thyroid function requires reducing inflammation, replenishing nutrient deficiencies, and supporting thyroid hormone synthesis.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita-Thyro | Provides essential thyroid-supportive nutrients and hormone precursors | 2 capsules with or without food, twice daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation that may impair thyroid function | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports estrogen metabolism, reducing thyroid hormone interference | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Optimize Iodine Intake: Consume iodine-rich foods (seaweed, fish, eggs) and avoid excessive goitrogens (raw cruciferous vegetables).
- Reduce Inflammation: Implement an anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3s.
- Support Gut Health: Enhance digestion and nutrient absorption with probiotics and digestive enzymes.
- Manage Stress & Cortisol Levels: Chronic stress can impair thyroid hormone conversion; practice mindfulness, yoga, and adequate sleep hygiene.
- Minimize Toxin Exposure: Avoid endocrine disruptors found in plastics, pesticides, and heavy metals that can suppress thyroid function.