thyroid disease — Blog

Why cold weather can trigger autoimmune flares

If you have an autoimmune condition like Hashimoto’s or Graves’, winter can hit harder. You might notice more fatigue, more inflammation, more flares.

Winter can be a challenge for anyone. But it can be particularly triggering for those who have one or more autoimmune conditions. And yes, that is the case even if your temperature regulation works well with colder weather (we’re looking at you, people with Graves’!)

So let’s take a look at why autoimmunity and colder weather are not a great mix, plus how you can reduce its impact.

Thyroid Health, Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonJuly 4, 2025thyroid disease, autoimmunity, winter

Freezing this winter? Your thyroid might be to blame

Find yourself wearing thermals, gloves and fluffy socks when everyone else is comfortable with just a jacket? While some do feel the cold more than others, it can also be a sign that your thyroid is in need of some TLC.

Temperature sensitivity in winter is a common but often overlooked symptom of thyroid dysfunction. It could be general hypothyroidism triggered by something like a virus, or it could be undiagnosed Hashimoto’s.

Thyroid Health, Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonJune 27, 2025winter, thyroid disease

Winter vs thyroid symptoms - how to tell the difference

In the colder months, there is a natural dip in energy levels. With shorter days, weaker sun, and chillier weather, our bodies instinctively slow down a little bit. So you might want to curl up on the couch earlier, eat more of your favourite comfort foods, and take things a little slower.

But where does winter sluggishness end, and something more serious begin?

We know that if you’re living with a thyroid condition like Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism, winter can magnify your symptoms. But even if you’ve never had a thyroid diagnosis, what you’re dismissing as ‘just the winter blues’ or ‘wintertime fatigue’? Might actually be a sign that your thyroid isn't functioning at its best.

Thyroid Conditions, Thyroid HealthTara NelsonJune 21, 2025winter, winter blues, thyroid disease

Want to lower your thyroid antibodies? Here's how

If you have elevated thyroid antibodies, your number one goal is to lower them. But how can you actually make that happen?

While everyone has unique triggers for their autoimmune thyroid cascade, there are steps you can take to take back control. By supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation, you can encourage those antibodies to drop back down – ideally into a normal range.

Here are some areas I look to when supporting clients to lower their thyroid antibodies naturally.

Why do women have more thyroid problems?

Women are more prone to thyroid concerns than men, including low thyroid function, nodules and even cancer. But why are women more vulnerable to these health issues?

By understanding why the thyroid gland is more likely to cause trouble for women, we can start to tackle these factors before they develop into a full-blown health crisis.

Hormones, Thyroid HealthTara NelsonAugust 30, 2024women's health, thyroid disease

Does hypothyroidism get worse over winter?

Do you notice your hypothyroid symptoms more when it’s cold outside? It’s not just you - there can be an increase in several common symptoms of an underactive thyroid. Let’s take a look at why this happens.

Preventing post-partum thyroiditis naturally

Concerned that your thyroid may cause issues after birth? This is known as post-partum thyroiditis, and it’s not an uncommon condition.

Like many health concerns for a new mother, it is usually temporary. However, in some cases it could lead to a long-term thyroid disorder. That’s why I recommend taking steps to reduce your risk of developing post-partum thyroiditis.

Thyroid Conditions, Thyroid HealthTara NelsonFebruary 16, 2024pregnancy, post-partum, thyroid disease, thyroiditis

How to manage multiple autoimmune conditions

Living with one autoimmune condition can be tough enough as it is. But what if you’re having to juggle two or more autoimmune conditions? This is where things can get a little messy – particularly if your symptoms are worsened or your medications are exacerbating them.

So if you’re navigating the world of multiple autoimmune issues and are unsure how to keep a handle on them? These tips will help you to get started.

Immune HealthTara NelsonOctober 27, 2023autoimmunity, thyroid disease

Diagnosed with thyroid nodules? Here’s what you need to know

Have you been told you have thyroid nodules after a neck x-ray or ultrasound? While it might sound scary, it’s important to understand what a nodule is and what it does – and doesn’t – mean for your health.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at this common thyroid condition.

When you should consider trying T3 medication

Have you heard of T3 medication for an underactive thyroid? T3 (triiodothyronine) is one of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland. But we hear a lot less about it compared to thyroxine, or T4.

Many people don’t do well on thyroxine therapy alone. So when should you consider T3 as an option, and what options are there? Let’s take a closer look at this controversial medication.

Understanding thyroxine for hypothyroidism

Have you been prescribed thyroxine for your underactive thyroid? When you’re given medication, it’s important to understand what you’re taking and how to tell if it’s the best option for you. That’s why I’ve gathered some important information about this commonly prescribed thyroid replacement therapy.

Still have symptoms when on thyroxine? Here is why

When your doctor prescribes you thyroxine, you’re hopeful that your symptoms will vanish within weeks. But sometimes, this isn’t the case. Or perhaps it does help for a few months or a few years, only for your symptoms to return.

Why does this happen? There are 4 major reasons why you could be experiencing thyroid-related symptoms even when taking thyroxine. Let’s take a closer look at each.

How to optimise your thyroxine conversion naturally

Do you rely on thyroxine for your thyroid condition? Thyroxine, or T4, is the most common medication used in thyroid disorders, particularly in an underactive thyroid. But there are a lot of factors that are involved in how well you absorb and convert it.

So whether you’re still feeling hypothyroid on your current dose or you just want to get the most out of your medication, this article is for you.

Had a thyroidectomy? Here's what you need to know

Thyroid Health, Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonApril 28, 2023thyroid disease, thyroid cancer, Graves', thyroidectomy

Managing your thyroid health post-thyroidectomy

If you’ve undergone surgery on your thyroid, you may be wondering how to take care of yourself in the aftermath. Your surgeon will likely explain how to manage your health in the short-term including wound care and follow-up.

But what about the long-term implications of surgery to the thyroid? Here are the major areas that I recommend you consider when it comes to life post-thyroidectomy.

Healthy ways to maintain your weight when hyperthyroid

When your thyroid is overactive, it can lead to unintentional weight loss. But losing too much weight is not a healthy thing – so how can you prevent it?

While it might be tempting to reach for junk food to keep your weight steady, this can have a negative impact on your thyroid function. That’s why we want to look at healthier ways to maintain your weight.

Gained weight with hyperthyroidism? Here's what to do

Although it’s not as common as weight loss, gaining weight with an overactive thyroid can happen. If you’re experiencing weight gain due to hyperthyroidism and want to maintain a healthy weight, there are some simple steps that will get you started.

Losing weight with hypothyroidism - the tips you need to try

When your thyroid is underactive, it can feel almost impossible to lose weight. It’s not that you’re lazy - it’s simply that your metabolism is working against you. But don’t feel like your weight gain is inevitable! There are steps you can take to shed excess weight, even after a hypothyroidism diagnosis.

10 thyroid cancer essentials to understand

A thyroid cancer diagnosis may be terrifying to hear. But the best way to move forward is to empower yourself with understanding about thyroid cancer and what it means for you.

Here are 10 important facts around thyroid cancer you need to know.

Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonFebruary 24, 2023thyroid cancer, thyroid disease

Want to heal your thyroid naturally? Here’s what you need to know

If you’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid condition, you might be looking for natural solutions. While it’s important to work with your healthcare provider, there are ways you can give your thyroid some TLC with natural options.

Let’s take a look at what you want to consider when healing your thyroid naturally.

Thyroid Health, Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonFebruary 3, 2023thyroid disease, thyroid health, thyroid symptoms