April 4, 2026 • 23 mins
Feeling tired, gaining weight without explanation, or dealing with brain fog that just will not go away? Your thyroid could be part of the bigger picture. In this episode of Mindful Objective, we break down thyroid health in a way that is simple, practical, and easy to understand.
You will learn what the thyroid actually does, how it affects energy, metabolism, mood, and focus, and why so many people feel off even when they are told their labs look normal. We walk through common patterns people experience when thyroid function is not where it should be, and why those signs are often missed or dismissed.
We also talk about how the thyroid connects to stress, nutrition, sleep, and daily habits, along with key nutrients like iodine, selenium, zinc, and vitamin D. You will get a clear understanding of how to support your body without guessing or chasing quick fixes.
We break down the difference between standard testing and more comprehensive functional lab testing, and how looking at a full panel can help you better understand what your body is telling you.
Integrative Health Services: https://mindfulobjective.com
Self-Service Labs: https://discountrtlabs.com
Professional-Grade Supplements and Wellness Products: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mindfulobjective/store-start
Popular Self-Order Protocols: https://mindfulobjective.com/shop/protocols
Free Guides and Health Resources: https://mindfulobjective.com/resources
📍Have a question you’d like answered on a future episode? Submit it anytime at https://mindfulobjective.com/podcasts
📝 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or condition. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle. Listening to this podcast means you understand and agree to this disclaimer.
Stay well!
Listen
Watch
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Welcome back to Mindful Objective.
This is the show where we talk about health that is clear,
realistic, and easy to use in your daily life.
I'm your host, doctor Daniels Pro, integrative health
practitioner and professor. Today we're talking about the
thyroid. Here's what I want you to
understand right away. The thyroid is one of the most
important glands in the body andit's also one of the most that
(00:21):
is most understood. Millions of people are walking
around right now, feeling exhausted, gaining weight they
cannot explain, struggling with their mood, their sleep and even
their focus. And they have no idea the small
butterfly shaped gland in the front of their neck can be
playing a significant role in this issue.
The thyroid does not get enough attention until something goes
obviously wrong. But the truth is, thyroid
(00:43):
function can be off for a long time before it shows U clearly
on a standard lab test. That gap between how you feel
and what your numbers say is exactly what we're going to talk
about today. As always, this shows for
educational purposes only, we donot diagnose, treat or cure any
illness or disease. Always speak with a qualified
healthcare provider before making any changes to your
(01:04):
health routine. So now let's start from the
beginning. What exactly is a thyroid and
why does it matter so much? The thyroid is a small gland
located at the front of your neck, yet it plays a major role
in how your body functions day-to-day.
Even though it's physically small, it influence reaches
almost every system in the body.When you start to understand how
it works, a lot of things begin to make things a lot more sense,
(01:27):
especially when it comes to energy, focus, and your overall
well-being. One of the easiest ways to think
about the thyroid is as a regulator of pace.
It helps determine how quickly or slowly your body runs.
This includes how your body usesenergy from food, how your heart
responds, how your brain processes information, and how
stable your body temperature feels throughout the day.
(01:48):
The thyroid produces 2 primary hormones known as T4 and T3.
T4 is produced in larger amountsand can be thought of as a
reserve form. T3 is the active form that your
cells use to carry out daily functions.
What many people do not realize is that producing T4 alone is
not enough. The body must convert T4 into T3
(02:08):
to be useful. This conversion process happens
in multiple areas of the body, including the liver and the gut.
That means thyroid function is not just about the thyroid
itself. It depends on how well other
systems are working. If those systems are under
stress or not function efficiently, the conversion
process may not happen efficiently.
There's also another factor to be aware of and it's called
(02:30):
reverse T3 and many doctors do not test for this.
This is an inactive form that inthe body can produce certain
conditions such as ongoing stress or physical strain.
Instead of supporting energy production, Reverse T3 can take
up space where active hormone should normally work.
This does not mean something is wrong in a diagnostic sense.
It means the body may be adapting to stress in a way that
(02:52):
affects how energy is used. The thyroid is also closely
connected to the brain through asignaling system.
The brain releases a signal known as thyroid stimulating
hormone or better known as TSH. This feedback loop is designed
to keep things balanced. When everything is working
smoothly, the system adjusts automatically based on what the
body needs. Another important part is
(03:13):
conversion is nutrition. The thyroid relies on certain
nutrients to function properly. Iodine is one of the most that
people heard about, but it's notthe only one.
Selenium, zinc, iron, and certain B vitamins all play a
role in supporting hormone production and conversion.
If any of these nutrients are low, the system may not operate
efficiently. This does not mean
(03:34):
supplementation is always needed.
It means awareness is important,and that's where guided support
and proper testing can help provide clarity.
From a health coaching perspective, the goal is not to
diagnose or label what is happening.
The goal is to help you understand how these systems
connect so you can make informeddecisions about your health.
This is also why a single lab value rarely tells a full story.
(03:55):
The thyroid is part of a network.
When you look at it in isolation, you miss that bigger
picture. When you look at it as part of a
system, patterns start to stand out.
This is where functional lab testing can be useful.
It allows you to look at the broader range of markers and
understand how different pieces are interacting.
OA Mindful objective. We help clients guide through
that whole testing process in a structured, supported based on
(04:18):
what it's showing right. If you prefer to take a more
independent route, you can also run your own self-service labs
through Discount TRT Labs and review your results on your own
time. Again, the key is not guessing,
it's understanding O. When the thyroid function is not
operating in a balanced way, people tend to feel it, but not
ways that people always connect back to their thyroid.
(04:39):
This is where a lot of confusioncomes in.
The symptoms can feel broad. They can overlap with other
areas like stress, sleep, and even your diet.
Some people feel like everythinghas slowed down.
They may feel tired even after getting enough rest.
They may notice changes in whitedespite not changing how they
eat. They may feel colder than usual
or have difficulty focusing throughout the day.
(05:02):
These are patterns people commonly report, but they're not
specific to 1 cause, which is why it's important to approach
this with awareness rather than assumption.
Other people experience the opposite.
They may feel more restless, have trouble sleeping, or feel
like their bodies running too fast.
They may feel more sensitive to heat or know that it's changes
in the energy or inconsistent that are hard to manage.
(05:25):
There are also situations where the immune system becomes
involved in how the thyroid functions.
These situations require proper medical evaluation are outside
the scope of health coaching. That is why it's always
important to stay connected witha licensed healthcare provider
when these kind of concerns comeup, right?
That's where we work hand in hand with your practitioner,
right? You have the, on the integrative
(05:46):
side, integrative health coach. What we do is we work with your
physician, right? We run certain labs.
They do not run. We look at different things they
do not look at. We work together.
Always remember that it's not one solution fits all right.
We work together and one of the biggest challenges people face
is being told on their normal labs that everything's normal,
(06:08):
yet they do not feel well. Many of us been there.
Many of us heard that. Many of us got frustrated by
that. It can be very frustrating and
it's also confusing. It can make people question
themselves or assume nothing. This is where education becomes
so important and the reason we're doing these podcasts.
Feeling off does not mean something is being diagnosed
(06:28):
right. It means there may be more to
understand. It may be worth looking at
patterns, lifestyle factors and possibly exploring more detailed
testing with guidance of a professional.
Another layer to consider is that symptoms often build over
time. They are not.
They do not always appear suddenly right.
People adjust, people push through.
They assume it's just part of life, right?
(06:50):
Over time, those parents become normal, even if they're not
optimal. Remember, from an integrative
health perspective, we look to get the body and your levels and
optimal ranges. Not just good ranges, not just
out of bad ranges, but optimal ranges.
That's very important on conventional labs where you may
show up in the green. Doesn't mean it's optimal.
(07:10):
It just means, yes, you're within this range, but you're
not optimal. You know, that's something we
have to take a look at. This is why awareness matters.
Paying attention to changes in energy, mood, sleep, and daily
function can't provide valuable insight.
You're not trying to selfdiagnose.
That's very easy to do. You go to doctor, Google, you
have every disease known to man.You're simply becoming more
(07:31):
aware of how your body's responding.
That's what you got to look into, and only you know your
body. Functional lab testing can play
a role here by providing additional data points.
It's always good to look beyond a single marker and see how
different systems may be interacting with each other.
Get a mindful objective. We work with clients to help
interpret these patterns and build a plan that supports their
(07:51):
overall health. For those who want more control
over the process, again, discount TRT labs.
Run your own labs and go from there.
So the goal is clarity, not confusion.
Now let's talk about the how thethyroid doesn't function in
isolation. It connects to many areas in
your daily health, which is why changes and how you feel
(08:11):
sometimes trace back to the system.
Yet it's not obvious at first. One of the main areas people
notice is energy or lack of energy.
When your body is using energy efficiently, you tend to feel
more stable throughout the day. When something's off, people
often describe as feeling drained even after rest.
This type of fatigue can feel different than just being tired.
(08:33):
After a long day, it can feel persistent and harder to shake.
Metabolism is another area that often comes up.
This is not just about weight, it's about how your body
processes and uses that food as energy.
When that process slows down, people may feel that their
efforts are not matching the results.
This is not about assigning blame, it's about understanding
how that body functions. Is your body function optimally?
(08:57):
Is your body barely functioning?Is your body not functioning at
all? These are all different
questions you have to ask and see.
That's where numbers play a big part in this.
Stress is another major factor in how the body regulates
itself. Ongoing stress can influence
multiple systems, including those involved in that energy
production and the hormone balance.
(09:17):
This is why stress management isnot just general recommendation,
it is a key part supporting youroverall health.
Blood sugar balance also plays arole.
When blood sugar levels fluctuate frequently, it creates
additional stress on the body. Supporting stable eating
patterns with balanced meals canreduce strain and support more
consistent energy levels. Hormones is another piece of the
(09:39):
puzzle. The body is constantly adjusting
and responding to internal and external signals.
These systems do not work independently.
They influence each other. That's why a broader approach
often leads to better understanding.
Sleep is one of the most overlooked areas.
Quality sleep allows the body torecover, regulate, reset.
Without it, many struggle to function.
(10:00):
You know, is it hard to wake U every day?
Is it hard to get through your day?
If sleep is inconsistent it can affect how you feel in multile
ways. Energy, focus, move.
We go back to the coaching perspective.
Nutrition, sleep, stress, movement and awareness.
These are all areas that are important an support in your
body as a whole, right? Then we look at those functional
(10:21):
labs again to connect those dotsand show patterns.
The goal is to help you understand your body better so
you could take practical, informed steps forward.
A lot of people guess, a lot of people go to Facebook groups,
right? They go into these forums to
understand what they're going through.
Everybody tries to compare theirbody to somebody else's body.
What works for one will not always work for another.
(10:43):
We see a lot of people that go on hormone replacement therapy
thinking there it's because their hormone levels are low,
when in fact it's an issue with the thyroid.
They have the same overlapping symptoms.
So hormone replacement therapy or those with hormone issues and
those with thyroid issues, they a lot of times it's the same
(11:03):
symptoms. Something to think about.
One of the biggest reasons people feel stuck is because the
information they received does not always match how they feel.
You're going based off what other people are saying in
Facebook forums that everybody'san expert, everybody's a doctor,
everybody's a health coach, everybody knows everything.
Yet they try to sell your product or they're trying to,
(11:24):
you know, guide you in a misdirection.
And sometimes it's not because of their doing on purpose, but
because the lack of knowledge, they think they know it or it's
individualized. Maybe that works for them, but
it could damage your body. And people don't always get
that. They just said, hey, this person
in this Facebook group said, take this, I'm going to try
this. And then they're coming to us
because they damage their liver,their kidneys, they're having
(11:46):
more health issues. Now they have M cast.
Now they have all these thyroid issues.
Now they have this going on because they're following blind
advice from somebody else in some Facebook group.
Again, people feel stuck. We get it, people are
frustrated, we get it. But it creates confusion.
It leads people to believe that nothing's wrong or, you know,
it's impossible to deal with. And that's not always true.
(12:09):
Remember, standard lab testing often focuses on limited set of
markers. While these tests are useful,
they do not always provide a full picture of how the body is
functioning. A single number can't only tell
you so much. From a broader perspective, it
can be helpful to look at additional markers and those
trends overtime. This allows you to see patterns
(12:29):
rather than isolated data. Point patterns provide context,
and context leads to better understanding.
Another reason symptoms are often missed is because they're
common. Fatigue, brain fog, weight
changes, moon shifts can all link to many different factors.
Because they are so common, they're often dismissed or
attributed to lifestyle without a deeper look.
(12:50):
That's where a more structured approach can help.
Instead of guessing, we gather information.
We look at how different systemsinteract.
You're building a clearer picture over time, and that's
where functional lab testing again comes in.
I kind of harp on this because people do not know what
functional lab testing is. It's very different than
conventional lab testing. It's not a typical blood test
you run from your doctor. Maybe a urine test, maybe a
(13:11):
saliva test, maybe a still a blood sample, but it's different
labs that we're running versus in family practitioner.
So something to keep in mind. You have any questions when I
see samples, anything like that?Feel free to reach out at
Mindful Objective. And remember, we guide clients
through functional lab testing and help them understand what
their results are and how to develop a Wellness perspective
(13:33):
that fits them, right, specific to them, not specific based on,
you know, other lab markers and for other people in a group, we
focus on education, lifestyle support, and structured
planning. Now that you have a clear
understanding, I hope, of how the thyroid works, how it feels
when things are off, and what's often missed.
The next step is understanding how to support your body in a
(13:53):
practical and realistic way. First thing to Kee in mind is
this. Supporting thyroid health is not
about focusing on one single solution.
It's about supporting the systems that the thyroid deends
on. You may see in these Facebook
groups around a TikTok video, take this one pill and it's
going to help with your thyroid.That's the thyroid doesn't work
like that and this is where a lot of people get stuck.
(14:14):
They look for one supplement, 1 diet, one quick fix.
The body does not work that way.It works as a system.
As we talked again, the support is that foundation.
Focus on that foundation first. This includes nutrition, include
your sleep, include stress management, includes movement,
and includes awareness. These are not complicated
concepts, but they are often overlooked or applied
(14:37):
inconsistently. So let's start with nutrition.
The thyroid relies on certain nutrients to function properly.
Iodine is one that people often hear about, but balance matters.
Too much or too little can create challenges.
That's why it's important not toguess when it comes to
supplementation, and iodine is one of those ones.
You could really damage your thyroid, so remember that.
(14:58):
Don't just blindly take iodine or high amounts iodine.
It could cause a lot of many health issues in your body,
especially with your thyroid. O Selenium is another key
nutrient that supports conversion of thyroid hormones.
It also plays a role in protecting the thyroid from
oxidative stress. Foods like Brazil nuts, seafood,
eggs, these are common sources. Iron also contribute to how the
(15:20):
body produces and uses those thyroid hormones.
Something else to remember. Another key nutrient that's
often overlooked is vitamin D Vitamin D plays a critical role
in your immune system balance, your hormone signaling, and your
overall metabolic health. Many people have low levels
without even realizing it, especially if they spend a lot
of time indoors or live in areaswith limited sun exposure.
(15:40):
During parts of the year, it's still important to supplement
with D3K2. Again, you don't want to take D3
without K2, but, and a lot of times too, you want to get in a
healthy range of say, 50 to 70. You know, you may show up on
your test at 30 and your physician may say that's OK.
But to be optimal, you know, we go for that 5070 range.
(16:01):
From a broader health perspective, vitamin D status
can influence how the body regulates different systems,
including those connected to thethyroid.
That does not mean vitamin D is a treatment for thyroid issues.
It means it's one piece of the larger puzzle.
Zinc is another important nutrient to keep in mind.
It supports how the body produces and utilizes hormones
(16:21):
and also plays a key role in immune function.
Low zinc levels are very common,more common than people think,
especially in individuals with limited dietary variety or
digestive concerns. We focus on that awareness
first. We want to make sure you're
doing the right thing and you understand what you're getting
yourself into and understand your issues.
So instead of jumping straight into supplements, it often makes
(16:43):
sense to look at your current eating patterns first.
Are you getting consistent meals?
Are you including protein, healthy fats, fiber?
Are you eating in a way that supports stable energy
throughout the day? This is where food tracking is
very important. You want to understand what
you're getting or nutrients you're getting.
Start food tracking. It's very important.
It's a pain, right? A lot of people don't like to do
(17:05):
it, especially long term. But if you're able to do it and
you really want to paint a picture, that's the way to do
it. That's the first place to start.
I always say, rather than comingto a health coach and getting
all this advice, start food tracking first.
Try that the first like 15 days,see you know how you're doing,
see where your nutrients lack, see what more you need for you,
(17:26):
specifically for you. So again, blood sugar, this
plays a bigger role than people realize too.
When blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day can
create additional stress on the body over time.
That stress can influence how your body regulates energy and
hormones. Eating balanced meals that are
consistent and at consistent times can help support more
stable energy, and it'll help reduce unnecessary strain on the
(17:49):
body. Next we always talk about this
is stress. This is the one of the most
important, often underestimated factors.
Chronic stress effects how the body prioritizes energy.
When stress is ongoing, the bodyshifts into a state where it's
focused on managing that stress rather than being optimal.
That does not mean you need to reduce all stress.
That's not realistic. It means you need to createspace
(18:11):
for recovery. This can include simple things,
walking, spending time outside, especially since it's getting
nice out, breathing exercises, or just having time during the
day when you're not constantly stimulated.
Maybe just lay in bed for 10 minutes, stay off the phone,
just sit there, think, relax. Sleep is another major piece.
We always talk about this, whereyour body resets and recovers.
(18:33):
If sleep is inconsistent and poor, it becomes much harder for
your body to regulate itself. Many people try to fix energy
issues without addressing sleep,which makes progress difficult.
Movement also plays a role, but it's not always better.
Consistent moderate movement tends to support the body more
efficiently and effectively thanpushing too hard Without
(18:54):
recovery. Walking, strength training and
low moderate intensity exercise can't be helpful.
When done consistently can. Don't overdo it.
Maybe you just need to get out and walk.
Maybe you don't need to do high intensity training.
Maybe you just need to walk a little bit.
You know, start slow. Another area that often gets
overlooked is environmental exposure.
Everyday products like plastic, personal care items, household
(19:16):
cleaners, these all compound in the body over time.
This is not about creating fair.It's about creating that
awareness and making gradual changes whenever possible.
Again, do what's best for you. Start slow or like they say, you
know, don't always like for people that need to eliminate
grains and stuff. Well, initially start off by
switching just to organic, right?
(19:38):
See how that affects the body and slowly reduce that and
increase other natural and healthy, you know, Whole Foods
that we suggest that Mediterranean diet, look more
into that. And like we said before, gut
health has another connection point here.
The digestive system plays a role in how nutrients are
absorbed and how certain processes affect and body
(19:59):
function, right? Supporting digestion through
balanced meals, fiber intake, and overall lifestyle habits can
have a broad impact on your bodyand how you feel.
Again, you know, instead of trying to change everything at
once, focus on being consistent and having manageable steps.
Small changes done consistently tend to lead to better outcomes
than large changes that are hardto maintain.
(20:20):
So many people just dive full force in and then quit.
So don't do that. Start small, make consistent
changes and you know, focus on that long term goal.
This is also where testing can provide direction.
Functional lab testing can help identify those patterns related
to nutrient levels to your stress markers and other systems
connected to your thyroid. This is not about diagnosing,
(20:42):
it's about gathering informationso you can make better informed,
healthy decisions based on your numbers, not based on somebody
else's symptoms. O what we do, we work with
clients on that. We help review lab data, we help
identify those patterns, an we build structured Wellness plans
that focus on changes. Everything is done within a
(21:04):
coaching framework with the understanding that medical
concerns should always be handled by a licensed provider.
For those who prefer a more independent approach, again, run
your own labs, kind of look at your markers, understand what
you're looking at and you know, knowing how they're changing
over time. And then when you need help, you
can always reach out for help. O no matter what path you take,
(21:25):
the goal is the same. You're trying to better
understand your body, again, your body, so you can support it
in a practical way. One of the most important
mindset shifts is moving away from quick fixes and towards
those long term consistency. The body responds best to steady
supportive habits over time. When you focus on the
foundation, everything else becomes easier to understand.
(21:47):
You're not trying to control every variable, you're trying to
learn how to support your body and a function to make it more
efficiently as you move forward.Start simle.
Pay attention to your energy. Notice how you feel after meals.
Look at your sleep patterns, build awareness first, then take
action. And if something has felt off
for a while, that is worth ayingattention to.
(22:07):
Not jumping to conclusions, but asking better questions and
looking a little deeper. That's where real progress
starts as we wra things. UI want to leave you with this.
If you've been feeling tired, struggling with your weight,
dealing with brain fog, or just feeling like something's off and
you cannot quite put your fingeron it, don't brush it off.
And don't just say it's stress or getting older.
(22:28):
Your body is communicating with you.
The question is whether you're asking the right questions to
understand what it's saying. The thyroid is one of the most
powerful and underappreciated regulators in the body.
When it's working well, you may not even notice it.
When it's not, you feel it's almost everything right.
The good news is that you're under getting the right
information. You have the ability to get the
(22:50):
right testing and the right support.
Thyroid function can improve. People who have felt stuck for
years often find that when a thyroid piece is finally
addressed, everything else starts to move forward.
You do not have to figure this out alone.
You do not have to keep pushing through symptoms and hoping they
eventually go away. There is a path forward that
starts with looking deeper, understanding your body's
(23:11):
patterns, and giving that support to help your body
function better as you move forward.
Again, start where you are. Pay attention to how you feel.
Notice patterns, ask questions, and if something has been
bothering you for a while without clear explanation,
that's worth investigating further.
So thank you for spending time with me on Mindful Objective.
Keep learning, keep listening toyour body, and keep taking
(23:33):
small, steady steps forward. As always, this shows for
education purposes only speak with a qualified healthcare
provider before making any changes to your health routine,
especially if symptoms are severe or changing quickly.
I'll see you next time, stay well.
Welcome back to Mindful Objective.
This is the show where we talk about health that is clear,
realistic, and easy to use in your daily life.
I'm your host, doctor Daniels Pro, integrative health
practitioner and professor. Today we're talking about the
thyroid. Here's what I want you to
understand right away. The thyroid is one of the most
important glands in the body andit's also one of the most that
(00:21):
is most understood. Millions of people are walking
around right now, feeling exhausted, gaining weight they
cannot explain, struggling with their mood, their sleep and even
their focus. And they have no idea the small
butterfly shaped gland in the front of their neck can be
playing a significant role in this issue.
The thyroid does not get enough attention until something goes
obviously wrong. But the truth is, thyroid
(00:43):
function can be off for a long time before it shows U clearly
on a standard lab test. That gap between how you feel
and what your numbers say is exactly what we're going to talk
about today. As always, this shows for
educational purposes only, we donot diagnose, treat or cure any
illness or disease. Always speak with a qualified
healthcare provider before making any changes to your
(01:04):
health routine. So now let's start from the
beginning. What exactly is a thyroid and
why does it matter so much? The thyroid is a small gland
located at the front of your neck, yet it plays a major role
in how your body functions day-to-day.
Even though it's physically small, it influence reaches
almost every system in the body.When you start to understand how
it works, a lot of things begin to make things a lot more sense,
(01:27):
especially when it comes to energy, focus, and your overall
well-being. One of the easiest ways to think
about the thyroid is as a regulator of pace.
It helps determine how quickly or slowly your body runs.
This includes how your body usesenergy from food, how your heart
responds, how your brain processes information, and how
stable your body temperature feels throughout the day.
(01:48):
The thyroid produces 2 primary hormones known as T4 and T3.
T4 is produced in larger amountsand can be thought of as a
reserve form. T3 is the active form that your
cells use to carry out daily functions.
What many people do not realize is that producing T4 alone is
not enough. The body must convert T4 into T3
(02:08):
to be useful. This conversion process happens
in multiple areas of the body, including the liver and the gut.
That means thyroid function is not just about the thyroid
itself. It depends on how well other
systems are working. If those systems are under
stress or not function efficiently, the conversion
process may not happen efficiently.
There's also another factor to be aware of and it's called
(02:30):
reverse T3 and many doctors do not test for this.
This is an inactive form that inthe body can produce certain
conditions such as ongoing stress or physical strain.
Instead of supporting energy production, Reverse T3 can take
up space where active hormone should normally work.
This does not mean something is wrong in a diagnostic sense.
It means the body may be adapting to stress in a way that
(02:52):
affects how energy is used. The thyroid is also closely
connected to the brain through asignaling system.
The brain releases a signal known as thyroid stimulating
hormone or better known as TSH. This feedback loop is designed
to keep things balanced. When everything is working
smoothly, the system adjusts automatically based on what the
body needs. Another important part is
(03:13):
conversion is nutrition. The thyroid relies on certain
nutrients to function properly. Iodine is one of the most that
people heard about, but it's notthe only one.
Selenium, zinc, iron, and certain B vitamins all play a
role in supporting hormone production and conversion.
If any of these nutrients are low, the system may not operate
efficiently. This does not mean
(03:34):
supplementation is always needed.
It means awareness is important,and that's where guided support
and proper testing can help provide clarity.
From a health coaching perspective, the goal is not to
diagnose or label what is happening.
The goal is to help you understand how these systems
connect so you can make informeddecisions about your health.
This is also why a single lab value rarely tells a full story.
(03:55):
The thyroid is part of a network.
When you look at it in isolation, you miss that bigger
picture. When you look at it as part of a
system, patterns start to stand out.
This is where functional lab testing can be useful.
It allows you to look at the broader range of markers and
understand how different pieces are interacting.
OA Mindful objective. We help clients guide through
that whole testing process in a structured, supported based on
(04:18):
what it's showing right. If you prefer to take a more
independent route, you can also run your own self-service labs
through Discount TRT Labs and review your results on your own
time. Again, the key is not guessing,
it's understanding O. When the thyroid function is not
operating in a balanced way, people tend to feel it, but not
ways that people always connect back to their thyroid.
(04:39):
This is where a lot of confusioncomes in.
The symptoms can feel broad. They can overlap with other
areas like stress, sleep, and even your diet.
Some people feel like everythinghas slowed down.
They may feel tired even after getting enough rest.
They may notice changes in whitedespite not changing how they
eat. They may feel colder than usual
or have difficulty focusing throughout the day.
(05:02):
These are patterns people commonly report, but they're not
specific to 1 cause, which is why it's important to approach
this with awareness rather than assumption.
Other people experience the opposite.
They may feel more restless, have trouble sleeping, or feel
like their bodies running too fast.
They may feel more sensitive to heat or know that it's changes
in the energy or inconsistent that are hard to manage.
(05:25):
There are also situations where the immune system becomes
involved in how the thyroid functions.
These situations require proper medical evaluation are outside
the scope of health coaching. That is why it's always
important to stay connected witha licensed healthcare provider
when these kind of concerns comeup, right?
That's where we work hand in hand with your practitioner,
right? You have the, on the integrative
(05:46):
side, integrative health coach. What we do is we work with your
physician, right? We run certain labs.
They do not run. We look at different things they
do not look at. We work together.
Always remember that it's not one solution fits all right.
We work together and one of the biggest challenges people face
is being told on their normal labs that everything's normal,
(06:08):
yet they do not feel well. Many of us been there.
Many of us heard that. Many of us got frustrated by
that. It can be very frustrating and
it's also confusing. It can make people question
themselves or assume nothing. This is where education becomes
so important and the reason we're doing these podcasts.
Feeling off does not mean something is being diagnosed
(06:28):
right. It means there may be more to
understand. It may be worth looking at
patterns, lifestyle factors and possibly exploring more detailed
testing with guidance of a professional.
Another layer to consider is that symptoms often build over
time. They are not.
They do not always appear suddenly right.
People adjust, people push through.
They assume it's just part of life, right?
(06:50):
Over time, those parents become normal, even if they're not
optimal. Remember, from an integrative
health perspective, we look to get the body and your levels and
optimal ranges. Not just good ranges, not just
out of bad ranges, but optimal ranges.
That's very important on conventional labs where you may
show up in the green. Doesn't mean it's optimal.
(07:10):
It just means, yes, you're within this range, but you're
not optimal. You know, that's something we
have to take a look at. This is why awareness matters.
Paying attention to changes in energy, mood, sleep, and daily
function can't provide valuable insight.
You're not trying to selfdiagnose.
That's very easy to do. You go to doctor, Google, you
have every disease known to man.You're simply becoming more
(07:31):
aware of how your body's responding.
That's what you got to look into, and only you know your
body. Functional lab testing can play
a role here by providing additional data points.
It's always good to look beyond a single marker and see how
different systems may be interacting with each other.
Get a mindful objective. We work with clients to help
interpret these patterns and build a plan that supports their
(07:51):
overall health. For those who want more control
over the process, again, discount TRT labs.
Run your own labs and go from there.
So the goal is clarity, not confusion.
Now let's talk about the how thethyroid doesn't function in
isolation. It connects to many areas in
your daily health, which is why changes and how you feel
(08:11):
sometimes trace back to the system.
Yet it's not obvious at first. One of the main areas people
notice is energy or lack of energy.
When your body is using energy efficiently, you tend to feel
more stable throughout the day. When something's off, people
often describe as feeling drained even after rest.
This type of fatigue can feel different than just being tired.
(08:33):
After a long day, it can feel persistent and harder to shake.
Metabolism is another area that often comes up.
This is not just about weight, it's about how your body
processes and uses that food as energy.
When that process slows down, people may feel that their
efforts are not matching the results.
This is not about assigning blame, it's about understanding
how that body functions. Is your body function optimally?
(08:57):
Is your body barely functioning?Is your body not functioning at
all? These are all different
questions you have to ask and see.
That's where numbers play a big part in this.
Stress is another major factor in how the body regulates
itself. Ongoing stress can influence
multiple systems, including those involved in that energy
production and the hormone balance.
(09:17):
This is why stress management isnot just general recommendation,
it is a key part supporting youroverall health.
Blood sugar balance also plays arole.
When blood sugar levels fluctuate frequently, it creates
additional stress on the body. Supporting stable eating
patterns with balanced meals canreduce strain and support more
consistent energy levels. Hormones is another piece of the
(09:39):
puzzle. The body is constantly adjusting
and responding to internal and external signals.
These systems do not work independently.
They influence each other. That's why a broader approach
often leads to better understanding.
Sleep is one of the most overlooked areas.
Quality sleep allows the body torecover, regulate, reset.
Without it, many struggle to function.
(10:00):
You know, is it hard to wake U every day?
Is it hard to get through your day?
If sleep is inconsistent it can affect how you feel in multile
ways. Energy, focus, move.
We go back to the coaching perspective.
Nutrition, sleep, stress, movement and awareness.
These are all areas that are important an support in your
body as a whole, right? Then we look at those functional
(10:21):
labs again to connect those dotsand show patterns.
The goal is to help you understand your body better so
you could take practical, informed steps forward.
A lot of people guess, a lot of people go to Facebook groups,
right? They go into these forums to
understand what they're going through.
Everybody tries to compare theirbody to somebody else's body.
What works for one will not always work for another.
(10:43):
We see a lot of people that go on hormone replacement therapy
thinking there it's because their hormone levels are low,
when in fact it's an issue with the thyroid.
They have the same overlapping symptoms.
So hormone replacement therapy or those with hormone issues and
those with thyroid issues, they a lot of times it's the same
(11:03):
symptoms. Something to think about.
One of the biggest reasons people feel stuck is because the
information they received does not always match how they feel.
You're going based off what other people are saying in
Facebook forums that everybody'san expert, everybody's a doctor,
everybody's a health coach, everybody knows everything.
Yet they try to sell your product or they're trying to,
(11:24):
you know, guide you in a misdirection.
And sometimes it's not because of their doing on purpose, but
because the lack of knowledge, they think they know it or it's
individualized. Maybe that works for them, but
it could damage your body. And people don't always get
that. They just said, hey, this person
in this Facebook group said, take this, I'm going to try
this. And then they're coming to us
because they damage their liver,their kidneys, they're having
(11:46):
more health issues. Now they have M cast.
Now they have all these thyroid issues.
Now they have this going on because they're following blind
advice from somebody else in some Facebook group.
Again, people feel stuck. We get it, people are
frustrated, we get it. But it creates confusion.
It leads people to believe that nothing's wrong or, you know,
it's impossible to deal with. And that's not always true.
(12:09):
Remember, standard lab testing often focuses on limited set of
markers. While these tests are useful,
they do not always provide a full picture of how the body is
functioning. A single number can't only tell
you so much. From a broader perspective, it
can be helpful to look at additional markers and those
trends overtime. This allows you to see patterns
(12:29):
rather than isolated data. Point patterns provide context,
and context leads to better understanding.
Another reason symptoms are often missed is because they're
common. Fatigue, brain fog, weight
changes, moon shifts can all link to many different factors.
Because they are so common, they're often dismissed or
attributed to lifestyle without a deeper look.
(12:50):
That's where a more structured approach can help.
Instead of guessing, we gather information.
We look at how different systemsinteract.
You're building a clearer picture over time, and that's
where functional lab testing again comes in.
I kind of harp on this because people do not know what
functional lab testing is. It's very different than
conventional lab testing. It's not a typical blood test
you run from your doctor. Maybe a urine test, maybe a
(13:11):
saliva test, maybe a still a blood sample, but it's different
labs that we're running versus in family practitioner.
So something to keep in mind. You have any questions when I
see samples, anything like that?Feel free to reach out at
Mindful Objective. And remember, we guide clients
through functional lab testing and help them understand what
their results are and how to develop a Wellness perspective
(13:33):
that fits them, right, specific to them, not specific based on,
you know, other lab markers and for other people in a group, we
focus on education, lifestyle support, and structured
planning. Now that you have a clear
understanding, I hope, of how the thyroid works, how it feels
when things are off, and what's often missed.
The next step is understanding how to support your body in a
(13:53):
practical and realistic way. First thing to Kee in mind is
this. Supporting thyroid health is not
about focusing on one single solution.
It's about supporting the systems that the thyroid deends
on. You may see in these Facebook
groups around a TikTok video, take this one pill and it's
going to help with your thyroid.That's the thyroid doesn't work
like that and this is where a lot of people get stuck.
(14:14):
They look for one supplement, 1 diet, one quick fix.
The body does not work that way.It works as a system.
As we talked again, the support is that foundation.
Focus on that foundation first. This includes nutrition, include
your sleep, include stress management, includes movement,
and includes awareness. These are not complicated
concepts, but they are often overlooked or applied
(14:37):
inconsistently. So let's start with nutrition.
The thyroid relies on certain nutrients to function properly.
Iodine is one that people often hear about, but balance matters.
Too much or too little can create challenges.
That's why it's important not toguess when it comes to
supplementation, and iodine is one of those ones.
You could really damage your thyroid, so remember that.
(14:58):
Don't just blindly take iodine or high amounts iodine.
It could cause a lot of many health issues in your body,
especially with your thyroid. O Selenium is another key
nutrient that supports conversion of thyroid hormones.
It also plays a role in protecting the thyroid from
oxidative stress. Foods like Brazil nuts, seafood,
eggs, these are common sources. Iron also contribute to how the
(15:20):
body produces and uses those thyroid hormones.
Something else to remember. Another key nutrient that's
often overlooked is vitamin D Vitamin D plays a critical role
in your immune system balance, your hormone signaling, and your
overall metabolic health. Many people have low levels
without even realizing it, especially if they spend a lot
of time indoors or live in areaswith limited sun exposure.
(15:40):
During parts of the year, it's still important to supplement
with D3K2. Again, you don't want to take D3
without K2, but, and a lot of times too, you want to get in a
healthy range of say, 50 to 70. You know, you may show up on
your test at 30 and your physician may say that's OK.
But to be optimal, you know, we go for that 5070 range.
(16:01):
From a broader health perspective, vitamin D status
can influence how the body regulates different systems,
including those connected to thethyroid.
That does not mean vitamin D is a treatment for thyroid issues.
It means it's one piece of the larger puzzle.
Zinc is another important nutrient to keep in mind.
It supports how the body produces and utilizes hormones
(16:21):
and also plays a key role in immune function.
Low zinc levels are very common,more common than people think,
especially in individuals with limited dietary variety or
digestive concerns. We focus on that awareness
first. We want to make sure you're
doing the right thing and you understand what you're getting
yourself into and understand your issues.
So instead of jumping straight into supplements, it often makes
(16:43):
sense to look at your current eating patterns first.
Are you getting consistent meals?
Are you including protein, healthy fats, fiber?
Are you eating in a way that supports stable energy
throughout the day? This is where food tracking is
very important. You want to understand what
you're getting or nutrients you're getting.
Start food tracking. It's very important.
It's a pain, right? A lot of people don't like to do
(17:05):
it, especially long term. But if you're able to do it and
you really want to paint a picture, that's the way to do
it. That's the first place to start.
I always say, rather than comingto a health coach and getting
all this advice, start food tracking first.
Try that the first like 15 days,see you know how you're doing,
see where your nutrients lack, see what more you need for you,
(17:26):
specifically for you. So again, blood sugar, this
plays a bigger role than people realize too.
When blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day can
create additional stress on the body over time.
That stress can influence how your body regulates energy and
hormones. Eating balanced meals that are
consistent and at consistent times can help support more
stable energy, and it'll help reduce unnecessary strain on the
(17:49):
body. Next we always talk about this
is stress. This is the one of the most
important, often underestimated factors.
Chronic stress effects how the body prioritizes energy.
When stress is ongoing, the bodyshifts into a state where it's
focused on managing that stress rather than being optimal.
That does not mean you need to reduce all stress.
That's not realistic. It means you need to createspace
(18:11):
for recovery. This can include simple things,
walking, spending time outside, especially since it's getting
nice out, breathing exercises, or just having time during the
day when you're not constantly stimulated.
Maybe just lay in bed for 10 minutes, stay off the phone,
just sit there, think, relax. Sleep is another major piece.
We always talk about this, whereyour body resets and recovers.
(18:33):
If sleep is inconsistent and poor, it becomes much harder for
your body to regulate itself. Many people try to fix energy
issues without addressing sleep,which makes progress difficult.
Movement also plays a role, but it's not always better.
Consistent moderate movement tends to support the body more
efficiently and effectively thanpushing too hard Without
(18:54):
recovery. Walking, strength training and
low moderate intensity exercise can't be helpful.
When done consistently can. Don't overdo it.
Maybe you just need to get out and walk.
Maybe you don't need to do high intensity training.
Maybe you just need to walk a little bit.
You know, start slow. Another area that often gets
overlooked is environmental exposure.
Everyday products like plastic, personal care items, household
(19:16):
cleaners, these all compound in the body over time.
This is not about creating fair.It's about creating that
awareness and making gradual changes whenever possible.
Again, do what's best for you. Start slow or like they say, you
know, don't always like for people that need to eliminate
grains and stuff. Well, initially start off by
switching just to organic, right?
(19:38):
See how that affects the body and slowly reduce that and
increase other natural and healthy, you know, Whole Foods
that we suggest that Mediterranean diet, look more
into that. And like we said before, gut
health has another connection point here.
The digestive system plays a role in how nutrients are
absorbed and how certain processes affect and body
(19:59):
function, right? Supporting digestion through
balanced meals, fiber intake, and overall lifestyle habits can
have a broad impact on your bodyand how you feel.
Again, you know, instead of trying to change everything at
once, focus on being consistent and having manageable steps.
Small changes done consistently tend to lead to better outcomes
than large changes that are hardto maintain.
(20:20):
So many people just dive full force in and then quit.
So don't do that. Start small, make consistent
changes and you know, focus on that long term goal.
This is also where testing can provide direction.
Functional lab testing can help identify those patterns related
to nutrient levels to your stress markers and other systems
connected to your thyroid. This is not about diagnosing,
(20:42):
it's about gathering informationso you can make better informed,
healthy decisions based on your numbers, not based on somebody
else's symptoms. O what we do, we work with
clients on that. We help review lab data, we help
identify those patterns, an we build structured Wellness plans
that focus on changes. Everything is done within a
(21:04):
coaching framework with the understanding that medical
concerns should always be handled by a licensed provider.
For those who prefer a more independent approach, again, run
your own labs, kind of look at your markers, understand what
you're looking at and you know, knowing how they're changing
over time. And then when you need help, you
can always reach out for help. O no matter what path you take,
(21:25):
the goal is the same. You're trying to better
understand your body, again, your body, so you can support it
in a practical way. One of the most important
mindset shifts is moving away from quick fixes and towards
those long term consistency. The body responds best to steady
supportive habits over time. When you focus on the
foundation, everything else becomes easier to understand.
(21:47):
You're not trying to control every variable, you're trying to
learn how to support your body and a function to make it more
efficiently as you move forward.Start simle.
Pay attention to your energy. Notice how you feel after meals.
Look at your sleep patterns, build awareness first, then take
action. And if something has felt off
for a while, that is worth ayingattention to.
(22:07):
Not jumping to conclusions, but asking better questions and
looking a little deeper. That's where real progress
starts as we wra things. UI want to leave you with this.
If you've been feeling tired, struggling with your weight,
dealing with brain fog, or just feeling like something's off and
you cannot quite put your fingeron it, don't brush it off.
And don't just say it's stress or getting older.
(22:28):
Your body is communicating with you.
The question is whether you're asking the right questions to
understand what it's saying. The thyroid is one of the most
powerful and underappreciated regulators in the body.
When it's working well, you may not even notice it.
When it's not, you feel it's almost everything right.
The good news is that you're under getting the right
information. You have the ability to get the
(22:50):
right testing and the right support.
Thyroid function can improve. People who have felt stuck for
years often find that when a thyroid piece is finally
addressed, everything else starts to move forward.
You do not have to figure this out alone.
You do not have to keep pushing through symptoms and hoping they
eventually go away. There is a path forward that
starts with looking deeper, understanding your body's
(23:11):
patterns, and giving that support to help your body
function better as you move forward.
Again, start where you are. Pay attention to how you feel.
Notice patterns, ask questions, and if something has been
bothering you for a while without clear explanation,
that's worth investigating further.
So thank you for spending time with me on Mindful Objective.
Keep learning, keep listening toyour body, and keep taking
(23:33):
small, steady steps forward. As always, this shows for
education purposes only speak with a qualified healthcare
provider before making any changes to your health routine,
especially if symptoms are severe or changing quickly.
I'll see you next time, stay well.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show
The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.