Everyone has a thyroid gland. Proper thyroid function is essential for metabolic function. Low thyroid function levels indicate inadequate amounts of thyroid hormones in the body. Treatment is available for this condition, though there is no cure.

The Thyroid

The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in your neck. It secretes thyroid hormones T3 and T4. The hormones help regulate your body's metabolism.

Hypothyroidism--Low Thyroid Function

If you receive blood test results that indicate low thyroid function, that means that your thyroid gland isn't producing enough T3 or T4 or both. Generally, this is called hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include depression, fatigue, dry skin and brittle hair and nails.

Traditional Treatment for Hypothyroidism

There is no cure for hypothyroidism, but treatment is available to help your body maintain normal thyroid hormone levels. Generally, you doctor will prescribe a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement in pill form. The dose will depend on the severity of your hypothyroidism.

Alternative Treatment for Hypothyroidism

In addition to or instead of the synthetic hormone pill, you may want to try an alternative treatment for your hypothyroidism. Diet is one way to increase thyroid function. Eat foods rich in selenium, folic acid and iodine to aid thyroid function, according to womentotwomen.com. Lowering your stress levels and getting adequate amounts of exposure to sunlight could also help thyroid function, according to the website.

Source:

Medline Plus

American Thyroid Association

Women to Women