(NaturalHealth365) It may be small, but it’s mighty powerful. The thyroid, a 5-ounce, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, exerts a massive influence over our physical, mental and emotional well-being.

With thyroid hormones dictating tasks to every cell in the body – and specifying exactly how much energy to generate – it’s not surprising that natural health expert Dr. Moshe Dekel likens this tiny gland to a thermostat, and declares “there is no health without the thyroid.”

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The human body is truly a work of art – especially the interconnectedness of the endocrine system. The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system, which also includes the adrenal glands, ovaries, testicles, and the pituitary gland, which Dr. Dekel terms the “conductor.” In addition, the hypothalamus functions as a “supercomputer,” sending information to the pituitary gland, which sends out hormones in response.

Thyroid stimulating hormone fuels our energy level

The pituitary gland can sense the presence of too little thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), or too much, and automatically corrects it – something that occurs beyond our conscious control. As long as the thyroid is healthy, the system works flawlessly.

Dr. Dekel notes that a healthy thyroid produces roughly 80 percent T4 and 20 percent T3, two different thyroid hormones essential to proper functioning. However, only the T3 is “active” and ready to be used by the body. T4, a precursor, must be converted in the liver and kidneys to T3 before it can be utilized – a process that requires adequate amounts of the essential minerals zinc and selenium.

Environmental pollutants interfere with healthy thyroid function

Thyroid problems begin when conversion of T4 to T3 is impeded. Noting that we are exposed to 100,000 chemicals on a daily basis, Dr. Dekel adds that many are “thyroid toxic” – leading to blocked receptor sites, cell dysfunction and poor energy generation.

With pollutants impairing the conversion of T4 to T3, it is possible for patients to have “good” blood test results — showing adequate levels of thyroid hormones — yet still suffer from an underactive thyroid.

Thyroid dysfunction has reached epidemic proportions

Many health experts agree – the vast majority of the American population suffer with some degree of thyroid dysfunction. Symptoms of a poorly-functioning thyroid include fatigue, “brain fog” -memory loss, confusion and impaired concentration – constipation, and hair loss, particularly in the outer third of the eyebrows.

Sensitivity to cold and lowered morning body temperatures are also red flags; Dekel said morning temperatures as low as 95.5 degrees Fahrenheit can occur in thyroid patients – a situation which limits function, as body enzymes work most effectively at 98.6 degrees.

Can chronic stress cause thyroid dysfunction?

Yes! Living under a constant barrage of stress is a primary cause of thyroid and other health problems, declares Dr. Dekel, who estimates that 80 percent of our physical manifestations arise from negative emotions. Exercise, detoxification, proper diet, healthy lifestyle – if stress continues, all are in vain.

Therefore, the need to de-stress is paramount, says Dr. Dekel. “Take 45 minutes a day to do something just for you,” he advises. “Let go of things you can’t control…treat your body with respect.”

Homeopathy can be used to improve thyroid function

To address issues of fear, anxiety and guilt that affect the thyroid, Dr. Dekel uses homeopathy – which he says can achieve dramatic results within an hour. He stresses that the confidence of the doctor can transfer to the patient and “literally help heal,” and emphasizes the importance of finding a knowledgeable and trustworthy practitioner who can address the emotional issues behind thyroid dysfunction.

Rather than relying on blood test results and medications, doctors should instead look at what is wrong with the patient’s emotional foundations, Dr. Dekel asserts. Other techniques may be used for thyroid patients including emotional repolarization, kinesiology and muscle testing.

Supplements used to normalize thyroid and adrenal function

Adaptogenic herbs – which help the body deal with stress – can help improve thyroid function, says Dr. Dekel, who favors ashwagandha, ginseng and rhodiola (to name just a few). Iodine, obtained from sea vegetables, can also support healthy thyroid function.

Naturally, if it’s not possible to obtain high-quality seaweed salad or sea vegetables, iodine supplements are an acceptable alternative. Keep in mind, iodine can help combat the toxic effects of halogens such as fluoride, chlorine and bromide.

In terms of additional supplements, one must consider the value of vitamin C and A; plus essential trace minerals like, selenium and zinc.

Healthy thyroid function can reverse dis-ease

Don’t settle for less than optimal health and, by all means, don’t ignore the symptoms of thyroid dis-ease. Find out how to improve your energy, mental clarity and emotional well-being by watching our exclusive program ”Thyroid Health” with Moshe Dekel, M.D. – exclusively for NaturalHealth365 INNER CIRCLE subscribers.

Click here to subscribe to the NaturalHealth365 INNER CIRCLE today!

About the author: Jonathan Landsman is the host of NaturalHealth365.com, the NaturalNews Talk Hour – a free, weekly health show and the NaturalHeatlh365 INNER CIRCLE – a monthly subscription to the brightest minds in natural health and healing.

Reaching hundreds of thousands of people, worldwide, as a personal health consultant, writer and radio talk show host – Jonathan has been educating the public on the health benefits of an organic (non-GMO) diet along with high-quality supplementation and healthy lifestyle habits including exercise and meditation.