Your thyroid works like your body’s engine. It helps regulate your metabolism, mood, energy levels, heart rate, digestion, and even your body temperature. When your thyroid struggles, you may feel tired, sluggish, or out of sorts without knowing why.
Around 4.3% of the population has subclinical hypothyroidism, where their thyroid hormone production is off kilter but not seriously enough to be considered thyroid disease. Boosting thyroid gland function could help manage this problem or prevent it from developing.
At Hopkins MD, we take an integrative approach to thyroid care, combining medical expertise with natural strategies that support your whole body.
Your thyroid sits at the front of your neck and makes hormones that communicate with every cell in your body. When your thyroid doesn’t make enough hormones, you can develop hypothyroidism. When it makes too much, you may experience hyperthyroidism.
While only a medical provider can diagnose and treat thyroid disorders, you can adopt daily habits that help keep your thyroid function at its best. Our behavioral health and wellness experts can help with any of the following lifestyle changes:
Food has a significant influence on how well your thyroid performs. You don’t need a special diet, but you should include key nutrients.
Your thyroid uses iodine to make hormones. Seafood, iodized salt, seaweed, and dairy products provide natural sources of iodine. Too much iodine can cause problems, so aim for a regular, moderate intake rather than supplements unless your provider recommends them.
This mineral protects the thyroid from damage and helps switch thyroid hormones over to their active forms. You can find selenium in Brazil nuts (just 1–2 per day is enough), sunflower seeds, turkey, eggs, and tuna.
Zinc helps your body use thyroid hormones properly. Good sources include beans, nuts, yogurt, and whole grains.
Berries, leafy greens, colorful vegetables, herbs, and other foods rich in antioxidants can reduce inflammation, which boosts thyroid health.
Your gut and your thyroid are closely connected. When your gut microbiome thrives, your body absorbs nutrients more effectively and supports hormone balance.
To strengthen your gut, eat high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains, and choose fermented foods such as miso, kefir, kimchi, yogurt, or sauerkraut. In addition, drink plenty of water to keep digestion moving smoothly
At Hopkins MD, we often evaluate gut health as part of thyroid care, especially for patients with autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Chronic stress affects your thyroid by disrupting hormonal signals. When your stress levels rise, your adrenal glands work overtime, which can slow thyroid hormone production. You can protect your thyroid by practicing simple stress-relief techniques:
You don’t need a long routine; short, regular breaks help your body stay balanced.
Your thyroid depends on quality sleep to regulate hormones. When you don’t sleep well, your body struggles to manage stress, metabolism, and energy. You can support better sleep by going to bed and waking up at consistent times and turning screens off at least an hour before bed. Create a calm sleep environment and avoid caffeine late in the day.
If you still struggle to sleep, we can identify whether hormones, stress, or lifestyle factors may be contributing.
Exercise supports thyroid function by improving metabolism, boosting energy levels, and reducing stress. Simple activities make a difference:
Aim for movement most days of the week. You don’t need intense workouts; even short sessions count.
Certain chemicals interfere with thyroid hormones. You can lower your exposure by choosing fragrance-free personal care products, avoiding plastics for food storage, and using natural cleaning products. You might also want to filter your drinking water.
These changes may seem small, but they help your thyroid work without unnecessary stress.
Sometimes thyroid problems stem from other health conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances. We use advanced testing to evaluate your thyroid levels, adrenal function, nutrient status, and inflammation markers.
Natural strategies can support your thyroid, but they don’t replace medical care when you need it. Visit us if you notice symptoms like:
Early testing helps you avoid complications and start the right treatment sooner.
At Hopkins MD, we combine primary care and integrative wellness to help you understand your thyroid, improve daily habits, and create a healthier, more balanced life. Call our office to schedule a consultation, or contact us via the online form.
