Managing thyroid conditions. Presented by Dr Caitlin O’Mahony MBBS, DRANZCOG, FRACGP, FACNEM
Thyroid disorders are common, yet their nutritional management can be complex. In this presentation, integrative GP Dr Caitlin O'Mahony provides a practical overview of thyroid physiology, common thyroid conditions and the many nutritional and lifestyle factors that may influence thyroid health. Caitlin explains the HPT axis, thyroid hormone production and conversion, interpretation of thyroid pathology and the roles of nutrients including iodine, selenium, iron, zinc and vitamin A. She also discusses dietary patterns, supplementation, lifestyle factors, pregnancy and thyroid medication. This presentation takes an integrative medicine approach, extending beyond conventional thyroid management to consider gut health, inflammation, environmental exposures and a broad range of investigations and supplements. Some dietitians may find aspects of this approach unfamiliar, different or even challenging, making it particularly thought-provoking. A detailed case study demonstrates how Caitlin applies this framework in practice and highlights opportunities for dietitians to assess dietary adequacy and support people living with thyroid conditions.
Learn about:
- Thyroid physiology and pathology interpretation, including the relationship between TSH, T4, T3, reverse T3 and thyroid antibodies, and the typical biochemical patterns seen in hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism.
- Nutritional factors relevant to thyroid function, including the roles of iodine, selenium, iron, zinc and vitamin A, together with dietary considerations for Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.
- An integrative approach to thyroid management, including how diet, lifestyle, gut health, inflammation, supplements and other potential contributors may be considered alongside conventional medical treatment.
Dr Caitlin O'Mahony MBBS, DRANZCOG, FRACGP, FACNEM is an integrative general practitioner with a special interest in women's health, nutrition and lifestyle medicine. She is passionate about helping patients improve their health and wellbeing through a personalised approach that combines evidence-based lifestyle and nutrition interventions with conventional medical care. Caitlin holds a Diploma of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (DRANZCOG) and is President of the Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (ACNEM). She is actively involved in clinician education and fostering collaboration across healthcare disciplines to support patient-centred care.
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