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Encinitas, CA

Managing Thyroid Disorders in Encinitas

A picture of Dr. Mark Stengler

Managing Thyroid Disorders in Encinitas

Comprehensive, Natural Solutions for Thyroid Health

Thyroid disorders are common yet often overlooked conditions that can significantly affect overall health. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, mood, and hormone balance. When thyroid function is impaired, it can lead to persistent fatigue, weight fluctuations, mood disturbances, and other disruptive symptoms.

At the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine, we specialize in personalized, integrative approaches to managing thyroid disorders. Led by Dr. Mark Stengler, a nationally recognized expert in natural and functional medicine, our clinic offers comprehensive testing, targeted treatments, and holistic support to help patients in Encinitas and surrounding areas restore thyroid function and achieve optimal health.

Why Is Thyroid Function So Important?

The thyroid produces essential hormones (T3 and T4) that regulate:

✔️ Metabolism & Weight Management – A well-functioning thyroid helps maintain a healthy metabolism.
✔️ Energy Levels – Low thyroid hormone levels can cause chronic fatigue and sluggishness.
✔️ Mood & Brain Function – Thyroid imbalances are linked to anxiety, depression, and brain fog.
✔️ Hormonal Balance – Thyroid hormones influence reproductive, adrenal, and stress hormones.
✔️ Heart & Digestive Health – The thyroid affects heart rate, digestion, and overall organ function.

When thyroid hormones are too low (hypothyroidism) or too high (hyperthyroidism), the body's systems become dysregulated, leading to a range of health issues that require targeted treatment.

Expert Thyroid Disorder Management in Encinitas

If you’re experiencing unexplained fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, or mood swings, thyroid dysfunction could be the cause. At the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine, we take an individualized, science-based approach to diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders.

Our comprehensive thyroid treatment plans include:

✔️ Advanced thyroid testing (TSH, T3, T4, reverse T3, thyroid antibodies)
✔️ Personalized nutrition and supplement recommendations for thyroid support
✔️ Lifestyle modifications to optimize thyroid function
✔️ Holistic, integrative treatments to address root causes rather than just symptoms

Whether you’re dealing with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or Graves’ disease, we offer expert care tailored to your unique needs.

Common Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, mood, and overall health. When it underproduces or overproduces hormones, it can lead to various thyroid disorders that disrupt normal bodily functions. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward proper management and treatment.

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), leading to a slow metabolism and a variety of symptoms.

Causes of Hypothyroidism:

  • Autoimmune disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis)
  • Iodine deficiency
  • Chronic stress and adrenal dysfunction
  • Certain medications (e.g., lithium, radiation therapy)

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

✔️ Fatigue and sluggishness
✔️ Unexplained weight gain
✔️ Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
✔️ Depression or mood changes
✔️ Dry skin, brittle hair, and hair thinning
✔️ Sensitivity to cold

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, leading to an overactive metabolism and increased bodily functions.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:

  • Graves’ disease (an autoimmune disorder)
  • Thyroid nodules that overstimulate hormone production
  • Excessive iodine intake

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

✔️ Rapid heart rate or palpitations
✔️ Unintentional weight loss
✔️ Anxiety, nervousness, and irritability
✔️ Insomnia and difficulty sleeping
✔️ Increased sweating and heat intolerance
✔️ Tremors or shakiness

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (Autoimmune Hypothyroidism)

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and reduced hormone production. Over time, this condition results in hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis:

✔️ Extreme fatigue
✔️ Unexplained weight gain
✔️ Depression and mood imbalances
✔️ Cold intolerance
✔️ Joint pain and muscle weakness

Since Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition, treatment focuses on balancing the immune system, reducing inflammation, and supporting thyroid function naturally.

Graves’ Disease (Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism)

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid to become overactive, leading to hyperthyroidism. It results from the immune system mistakenly stimulating the thyroid gland to produce excessive hormones.

Symptoms of Graves’ Disease:

✔️ Rapid heartbeat or irregular pulse
✔️ Weight loss despite normal eating habits
✔️ Anxiety, nervousness, and mood swings
✔️ Bulging eyes (Graves’ ophthalmopathy)
✔️ Increased sweating and heat intolerance

Graves’ disease requires a comprehensive approach to manage symptoms and regulate immune system activity while supporting thyroid function.

Integrative Approach to Managing Thyroid Disorders

At the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine, we take a comprehensive, science-based approach to diagnosing and treating thyroid disorders. Instead of simply masking symptoms with medication, we focus on identifying the root causes and creating a personalized treatment plan that promotes long-term thyroid health.

Comprehensive Thyroid Testing

Accurate diagnosis is key to developing an effective treatment plan. Our advanced thyroid testing evaluates multiple markers to get a complete picture of thyroid function, including:

✔️ Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) – Assesses thyroid gland activity.
✔️ Free T3 & Free T4 – Measures active thyroid hormone levels.
✔️ Reverse T3 (rT3) – Identifies thyroid hormone conversion issues.
✔️ Thyroid Antibodies (TPO & TG Antibodies) – Detects autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.

By analyzing these key markers, we can determine whether a patient has hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or an autoimmune thyroid disorder, and create a customized treatment plan accordingly.

Natural and Functional Medicine Approaches to Thyroid Health

Unlike conventional treatments that focus solely on prescription medications, our integrative approach combines functional medicine and holistic therapies to restore thyroid function naturally.

✔️ Balancing Nutrient Deficiencies – Many thyroid disorders stem from nutritional imbalances, which we address through targeted supplementation and dietary changes.
✔️ Supporting Hormonal Balance – The thyroid is interconnected with adrenal and reproductive hormones, so we ensure the entire endocrine system is functioning optimally.
✔️ Reducing Inflammation – Autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease often involve chronic inflammation, which we manage through diet, lifestyle changes, and natural therapies.

Nutritional Therapy for Thyroid Support

Proper nutrition is essential for thyroid health, and we emphasize thyroid-friendly diets that include:

✔️ Iodine-Rich Foods – Supports thyroid hormone production (seaweed, eggs, fish).
✔️ Selenium & Zinc – Helps regulate thyroid function and reduce inflammation (Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, grass-fed meats).
✔️ Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Supports autoimmune thyroid conditions (leafy greens, berries, turmeric, and omega-3-rich foods).
✔️ Avoiding Gluten & Processed Foods – Many thyroid patients benefit from a gluten-free, low-inflammatory diet.

By incorporating targeted nutrition strategies, we help patients improve thyroid function naturally and support long-term hormone balance.

Personalized Supplement Recommendations

For patients needing additional thyroid support, we offer science-backed supplement protocols tailored to individual needs, including:

🌿 Iodine & Selenium – Essential for thyroid hormone production.
🌿 Adaptogenic Herbs (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Holy Basil) – Helps balance stress hormones and support thyroid function.
🌿 Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Vitamin D – Reduces inflammation and supports immune health.
🌿 Probiotics & Gut Health Support – Since gut health is linked to thyroid function, we optimize digestion and nutrient absorption.

Lifestyle Modifications for Optimal Thyroid Health

Hormonal balance isn’t just about diet and supplements—it’s also about creating a lifestyle that supports thyroid function. Our integrative treatment plans include:

🧘‍♀️ Stress Management – Chronic stress affects the thyroid-adrenal connection, so we incorporate relaxation techniques, prayer, and natural therapies.
🏋️‍♂️ Exercise & Movement – Moderate exercise supports metabolism, energy levels, and mood stabilization.
😴 Sleep Optimization – Poor sleep impacts hormonal regulation, so we help patients create healthy sleep routines for better thyroid function.

Take Control of Your Thyroid Health Today

If you’re experiencing fatigue, weight changes, brain fog, or other signs of thyroid imbalance, the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine can help. Our comprehensive, natural approach to thyroid disorder management focuses on addressing root causes and restoring balance through personalized, science-based treatments.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

📍 Location: 324 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024
📞 Phone: 760-274-2377📩 Email: clinic@markstengler.com

💻 Telemedicine Consultations Available – Receive expert thyroid care from the comfort of your home!

Don’t let thyroid issues hold you back from feeling your best. Take the first step toward better health—schedule your consultation today!

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