We all recognise that as a population, there are more overweight and obese people now then there was 10, 20 or 30 years ago.
Today I want to show you some alarming stats, describe the causative factors, and highlight what we believe is the most undervalued aspect behind weight gain – a sub-optimal thyroid.
The above graph shows the percentage of US citizens that fall into the obese category over the last 60 years.
This information comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site. You can rest assured that Australia is also following this trend.
Interestingly, when you dig, you can find all sorts of correlating data that parallels with this trend, such as consumption of farmed salmon, introduction of glyphosate use in grain farming, and consumption of sugar in the diet.
There are many factors that contribute, and it is the total burden that needs to be considered – and treated – to help someone lose weight when normal calorie restriction and exercise do not work, or rebound weight gain persists.
Some substances that disrupt our metabolism and hormones:
- Pesticides – sprays used on our fruit and vegetables.
- Heavy metals – eg Mercury, Aluminum, Cadmium, Lead.
- Toxic Halides – Bromide, Flouride, Chlorine.
- Phthalates – used to make plastic soft and pliable – bottles, packaging, etc.
- Drugs – many prescription drugs.
The Thyroid
The thyroid controls our metabolism, our internal thermostat, our energy, and our weight.
Medical reference ranges are designed to pick up a thyroid disease. Sub-optimal thyroid concerns are not tested for, treated, nor is the patient educated in sub-optimal thyroid function.
Due to the thyroid being a sponge like gland, it is very susceptible to damage and toxin accumulation. Silver fillings in the teeth leach mercury vapors into the gums and bloodstream with every hot drink or meal. Aluminum from cooking also can enter the body in this way. The thyroid and the brain are the first major tissues to come into contact with toxins absorbed this way, and normal routes for detoxification can be skipped – such as conjugation with a lipid in the liver, or elimination via the bowel or kidney.
The delicate thyroid is also very susceptible to radiation, other medications, sleep deprivation, stress hormones, extreme dieting, extreme exercise, and even some high dose supplements may affect its optimal function.
Functional Medicine – Optimal health
At The Lucy Rose Clinic, we understand the many factors that could be affecting your weight, vitality, and speed of aging. Our drive is to get you thorough testing that picks up where in the body the imbalances lie, screens for early signs of disease progression, and allows us to treat you right so you get results fast.
Start a journey to better health with people who understand how to uncover the root causes of health imbalances, and works with you to meet your health and weight goals.