What purpose do the adrenal glands serve?
The adrenal glands produce several important hormones that influence various aspects of human physiology. They produce glucocorticoids that help modulate inflammatory responses. They produce aldosterone, which helps regulate sodium excretion in the kidneys and maintain proper blood volume. The adrenal glands also produce epinephrine, which helps you respond to surprising or threatening situations. The adrenal glands also produce the androgen dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
What does the thyroid do for the human body?
The thyroid is crucial to regulating metabolic rate throughout the body. It produces thyroid hormones, which influence nearly all cells. The thyroid also helps regulate calcium levels in the body. The thyroid is, in turn, regulated through a feedback system with the pituitary gland in the brain.
What are some integrative approaches to hypothyroidism?
Thyroid hormones contain iodine, so maintaining adequate iodine intake is important for thyroid function. Ensuring adequate intake of selenium and zinc is also important to support thyroid health. Herbal preparations that have been shown to support healthy thyroid function include extracts of ashwagandha and Korean ginseng. If you suspect you have low thyroid function, you should speak with your doctor because there are very effective medications available that can help balance thyroid function.
