What is Free T3 and what causes it to drop?

Free T3 (triiodothyronine) refers to the unbound or available form of the active thyroid hormone T3 in the bloodstream. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy production, body temperature regulation, growth, and development. Free T3 levels are important indicators of thyroid function and can help assess conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Measuring free T3 levels provides valuable information about the availability of active thyroid hormone in the body.

A decrease in free T3 (triiodothyronine) levels can be indicative of an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism. There are several potential reasons for decreased free T3, including:

1. Primary Hypothyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland itself fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones, including T3. The most common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

2. Secondary or Tertiary Hypothyroidism: In these cases, the problem lies in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, which control the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormone regulation. Reduced TSH production results in decreased stimulation of the thyroid gland to produce T3.

3. Medications and Treatments: Certain medications, such as lithium, amiodarone, and some anti-thyroid medications, can interfere with T3 production or conversion. Previous treatments like thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine therapy can also impact T3 levels.

4. Nutrient Deficiencies: Inadequate levels of iodine, selenium, zinc, and iron can affect thyroid hormone production and conversion, leading to decreased T3 availability.

To correct decreased free T3 levels, it's important to address the underlying cause.

Here are some potential treatment options:

1. Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: In cases of primary hypothyroidism, using thyroid hormone medications (levothyroxine or Liothyronine or Dessicated Thyroid) can be prescribed to restore hormone levels. The dosage is adjusted based on individual needs and regular monitoring of thyroid function.

2. Addressing Pituitary or Hypothalamic Issues: If secondary or tertiary hypothyroidism is the cause, treatment may involve identifying and addressing any underlying conditions affecting these glands. This may involve medications or interventions specific to the root cause.

3. Medication Adjustment: If medication-induced hypothyroidism is suspected, working with a healthcare professional to review and potentially adjust the medication regimen is important.

4. Nutritional Support: Ensuring adequate intake of nutrients required for thyroid function, such as iodine, selenium, zinc, and iron, through a balanced diet or supplementation, may be necessary. It's important to work with a healthcare professional such as Functional medicine practitioner to determine specific needs and to avoid excessive supplementation.

Too much thyroid can be just as detrimental to your health as too little,

5. Stress Management and Lifestyle Modifications: Chronic stress can impact thyroid function. Implementing stress management techniques, optimizing sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle overall can support thyroid health.

It's crucial to consult with a knowledge health care provider, who can assess your individual situation, order appropriate tests, and provide personalized guidance for correcting decreased free T3 levels. A thorough thyroid panel includes TSH, Free T4 , Free T3, Reverse T3 and Thyroid antibodies. A good provider will consider your medical history, your symptoms, and any other relevant factors to develop an appropriate treatment plan for you.

Angelica Clark PA-C, IFMCP is a certified functional medicine practitioner with 15 yrs of experience who can help you optimize your thyroid hormones.

www.clarkwellnesswaco.com

(254) 386-8149

References:

1. Brent, G. A. (2012). Hypothyroidism and thyroiditis. In J. D. Wilson, D. W. Foster, & H. M. Kronenberg (Eds.), Williams Textbook of Endocrinology (12th ed., pp. 379-406). Elsevier.

2. Biondi, B., & Cooper, D. S. (2008). The clinical significance of subclinical thyroid dysfunction. Endocrine Reviews, 29(1), 76-131.

3. Chaker, L., Bianco, A. C., Jonklaas, J., & Peeters, R. P. (2017). Hypothyroidism. The Lancet, 390(10101), 1550-1562.

4. Jonklaas, J., Bianco, A. C., Bauer, A. J., Burman, K. D., Cappola, A. R., Celi, F. S.,... & Sawka, A. M. (2014). Guidelines for the treatment of hypothyroidism: prepared by the American Thyroid Association Task Force on Thyroid Hormone Replacement. Thyroid, 24(12), 1670-1751.

5. Wiersinga, W. M. (2014). Paradigm shifts in thyroid hormone replacement therapies for hypothyroidism. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 10(3), 164-174.

Exploring Pregnenolone: The Mother of All Hormones

Pregnenolone is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the body's endocrine system. Often referred to as the "mother of all hormones," pregnenolone is a precursor to many other hormones, including cortisol, progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone.

1. Pregnenolone Synthesis and Function:

Pregnenolone is synthesized in the body from cholesterol, primarily in the adrenal glands, liver, skin, and brain. Its production occurs through a series of enzymatic reactions, with the help of enzymes such as cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1).

Pregnenolone acts as a precursor to various hormones involved in regulating a wide range of physiological functions, including stress response, reproductive health, cognitive function, mood regulation, and immune system modulation.

2. Pregnenolone Benefits:

- Cognitive Enhancement: Pregnenolone has been studied for its potential cognitive-enhancing properties. Research suggests that it may support memory, focus, and overall cognitive function by interacting with neurotransmitter systems and neuroprotective mechanisms.

- Stress Response and Mood Regulation: Pregnenolone has been investigated for its role in managing stress and mood disorders. It acts as a positive modulator of the GABA receptors, which are involved in regulating anxiety and stress responses.

- Hormone Balance: Pregnenolone plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance. It can serve as a precursor to other hormones, supporting their production and regulation.

3. Clinical Applications:

- Cognitive Decline and Neurodegenerative Disorders: Pregnenolone supplementation has shown promise in supporting cognitive function in individuals with age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. It may enhance memory, attention, and overall cognitive performance.

- Mood Disorders: Some studies suggest that pregnenolone supplementation may have a positive impact on mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It may help regulate mood, reduce symptoms, and improve overall well-being.

4. Safety and Considerations:

While pregnenolone is considered safe for most individuals when used appropriately, it's important to note that individual responses may vary. As with any hormone, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting pregnenolone supplementation, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. It can readily convert to estrogen and cortisol, therefore should not be used by people with history of hormone receptive cancer. It can also cause jitteriness in the presence of poor glucose regulation. This is normally taken in the morning and dosing varies from 5mg to 25mg.

Angeluca Clark PA-C, IFMCP is a certified functional medicine practitioner in Texas who can help assess if you could benefit from this hormone supplementation.

www.clarkwellnesswaco.com

(254) 386-8149

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2018). Hormone Health Network: Pregnenolone. Retrieved from https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/pregnenolone

2. Vallée, M., Mayo, W., Le Moal, M., & Piazza, P. V. (2001). Pregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and their sulfate esters modulate learning and memory in rodents. Brain Research Reviews, 37(1-3), 301-312.

3. Marx, C. E., Bradford, D. W., Hamer, R. M., Naylor, J. C., Allen, T. B., Lieberman, J. A., & Sullivan, K. L. (2011). Pregnenolone as a novel therapeutic candidate in schizophrenia: emerging preclinical and clinical evidence. Neuroscience, 191, 78-90.

4. Ritsner, M. S., & Strous, R. D. (2010). Neurocognitive deficits in schizophrenia are associated with alterations in

Reversing Insulin Resistance, Type 3 Diabetes and Supporting Brain Health

Insulin resistance is a metabolic condition that can lead to various health issues, including type 2 diabetes and potential implications for brain health.

By addressing lifestyle factors, incorporating a functional medicine approach, and making targeted dietary and supplementation choices, we can work towards optimal metabolic and cognitive well-being.

Types of Diabetes:

1. Type 1 Diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Lifelong insulin replacement therapy is required for management.

2. Type 2 Diabetes:

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance, where cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, obesity, and genetic predisposition contribute to its development.

3. Gestational Diabetes:

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, affecting insulin sensitivity. It typically resolves after childbirth but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

4. Type 3 diabetes, also known as "brain diabetes" or "diabetes of the brain," is a term that has been used to describe the link between insulin resistance and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. Research suggests that insulin resistance in the brain may contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease. While the exact mechanisms are still being investigated, it is believed that impaired insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in the brain play a role in the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, characteristic markers of Alzheimer's disease.

Root Causes of Insulin Resistance and Brain Health:

1. Insulin Resistance:

Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, excess weight, and chronic inflammation contribute to insulin resistance. These factors lead to cellular dysfunction and impaired insulin signaling.

2. Cognitive Implications:

Research suggests a link between insulin resistance and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (termed type 3 diabetes). Impaired insulin signaling and glucose metabolism in the brain may contribute to the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles.

Comprehensive Approach to Reversing Insulin Resistance and Supporting Brain Health:

1. Adopt a Healthy Diet:

Focus on a whole-food, nutrient-dense diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Limit processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. Prioritize anti-inflammatory foods to support both metabolic and brain health.

2. Engage in Regular Physical Activity:

Regular aerobic exercise and strength training improve insulin sensitivity and support brain health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, along with strength training exercises.

3. Blood Sugar Regulation:

Maintain stable blood sugar levels by consuming regular, balanced meals and snacks throughout the day. Be mindful of carbohydrate intake, balance your macros, eat more of good fats such as avocados, olives, olive oil, seeds, nuts etc.

4. Intermittent Fasting:

Consider incorporating intermittent fasting into your routine, as it has shown promise in improving insulin sensitivity and supporting brain health. Start with a 12-hour overnight fast and gradually increase the fasting window under professional guidance.

5. Supplementation and Hormone balance:

under professional guidance, supplements and peptides can support insulin sensitivity and brain health. Examples include omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants (such as vitamins C and E), curcumin, resveratrol, and coenzyme Q10 and many peptides such as dihexa and Semax have shown benefits. By optimizing thyroid function, adrenal hormones and pregnenolone, your health and insulin sensitivity can improve greatly.

6. Stress Management:

Chronic stress contributes to insulin resistance and cognitive decline. Studies show that the impact of high cortisol on the brain impacts us twice as worse as D.W.I. Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation, stretching, deep breathing exercises, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation.

7. Sleep Quality:

Prioritize restful sleep to support brain health and insulin regulation. Establish a consistent sleep routine, create a sleep-friendly environment, and practice good sleep hygiene habits. Sleep is important. If you do not sleep or have a good quality of sleep, your brain can not reset, clear off metabolites and this could lead to dementia.

Reversing insulin resistance and supporting brain health require an individualized approach that takes into account your unique metabolic and cognitive factors. Angelica Clark PA-C is a certified Functional Medicine Practitioner who can help you address this condition. www.clarkwellnesswaco.com

(254) 386-8149

References:

- American Diabetes Association. (2021). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes – 2021. Diabetes Care, 44(Supplement 1), S1-S232.

- Ley, S. H., Hamdy, O., Mohan, V., & Hu, F. B. (2014). Prevention and management of type 2 diabetes: dietary components and nutritional strategies. The Lancet, 383(9933), 1999-2007.

- Reutrakul, S., & Van Cauter, E. (2018). Interactions between sleep, circadian function, and glucose metabolism: implications for risk and severity of diabetes. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1434(1), 4-33.

- Goyal, A., Terry, P. D., Superak, H. M., & Gallagher, C. M. (2018). Hormone replacement therapy and risk of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Diabetes Care, 41(3), 754-766.