Nurturing Thyroid Health: Insights from Danielle Layton, MSN, FNP-C
As we delve into Thyroid Awareness Month, we bring you a heartfelt conversation with Danielle Layton, a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner at OnePeak Medical, for over three years. Danielle wears multiple hats, caring for primary care and post-COVID patients, women’s health, and hormone balancing, with a special focus on thyroid health. Join us as we unravel the importance of thyroid awareness through Danielle’s insights and experiences.
The Significance of Thyroid Health
Why should we pay attention to our thyroid health? Danielle paints a vivid picture, describing the thyroid as the driving force behind our metabolism and energy levels. “If the thyroid is over-functioning or under-functioning, patients’ quality of life can be negatively affected,” she says, underlining the profound impact of this often-overlooked gland.
Identifying Thyroid Disorders
With a compassionate tone, Danielle guides us through the common signs and symptoms of thyroid disorders. “Hypothyroidism is the most common (thyroid disorder),” she notes, listing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair and nails, and constipation. On the flip side, hyperthyroidism, characterized by an overstimulated thyroid, can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, and weight loss.
Understanding the Thyroid Gland’s Role
Moving deeper into the intricacies of the thyroid gland, Danielle explains its role in the body. “The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system,” she says, illustrating its interconnectedness with other organs. “It creates hormones that are sent out to every cell of your body, helping to regulate your metabolism.” Beyond metabolism, it plays a crucial role in heart, muscle, and digestive function, brain development, and bone maintenance.
Preventive Measures for Optimal Thyroid Health
Danielle offers practical advice on maintaining optimal thyroid health. “The thyroid needs certain minerals – iodine, zinc, and selenium,” she advises. Ensuring an adequate intake of these minerals through diet is key. Furthermore, she advocates for a holistic approach, incorporating a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition, exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management.
Lifestyle Factors and Prevention
Delving into lifestyle factors, Danielle advocates for the removal of endocrine disruptors. “Remove BPA in plastics, sulfates, parabens, and pesticides from your life,” she urges. Clean eating with organic foods, eliminating harsh chemical cleaners, and opting for clean personal care products all contribute to a thyroid-friendly lifestyle.
Dispelling Misconceptions
Addressing misconceptions, Danielle tackles the belief that hypothyroidism is solely responsible for significant weight gain. “In reality, hypothyroidism can cause only approximately 10 lbs of weight gain,” she clarifies. Education, she suggests, is crucial to dispel such myths surrounding thyroid health.
Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers
Danielle shares invaluable tips for effective communication with healthcare providers. “Always be clear about your concerns and the reasoning behind it,” she advises. Discussing a family history of thyroid disorders and requesting a full thyroid panel, including TSH, FT4, FT3, and thyroid antibodies when applicable, ensures a comprehensive assessment.
Key Messages for Thyroid Health Awareness Month
In closing, Danielle leaves us with an essential takeaway. “A healthy lifestyle is key to the prevention of thyroid decline. Feed your body the vitamins and minerals it needs,” she emphasizes, encapsulating the essence of Thyroid Health Awareness Month.
Conclusion
Thyroid health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, influencing various aspects of our lives. Danielle Layton’s insights provide valuable guidance for individuals to be proactive in maintaining thyroid health and fostering a balanced and vibrant life.
If any of the symptoms or thyroid disorders that we shared feel all too familiar, we encourage you to get your thyroid checked sooner rather than later. OnePeak Medical, located throughout Oregon, is accepting new patients.