Thyroid and Hormonal Conditions
The thyroid gland is the centre of energy and metabolism. When it is dysfunctional, a person may feel any number of symptoms including persistent fatigue, constipation or diarrhea, and ongoing illness. As thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive hormones are intricately tied, I can help you identify which hormones need to be rebalanced to improve your sleep, energy, fertility, and reproductive health.
Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
Various nutrients, such as selenium and zinc, are needed to support the conversion of our thyroid hormone T4 to the more metabolically active thyroid hormone T3. Other medicinal herbs, such as ashwagandha, have shown promise in clinical trials to promote normalization of TSH. It is also well-documented that many individuals with a thyroid disorder experience chronic gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and either loose stools or constipation.
Dr. Dominique’s goal is to help patients achieve optimal thyroid function by using diet, lifestyle, regular blood work monitoring, and other integrative forms of medicine, while working collaboratively with other healthcare practitioners in the patient’s circle of care.
Desiccated thyroid hormone replacement may be an option for individuals who poorly tolerate levothyroxine (Synthroid) medication.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland and, over time, leads to chronic inflammation. This autoimmune attack impairs the ability of the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, and eventually can cause hypothyroidism (an under-active thyroid). Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in Canada.
The role of diet in the management of Hashimoto’s disease is often overlooked. Some patients notice that their digestive system is affected by their underlying thyroid dysfunction. Diet modifications are just one example where naturopathic medicine may be of benefit to someone suffering from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
women’s health & Hormones
There are several testing and natural treatment options available for other hormone conditions, such as testing hormones in blood work, and the use of basic naturopathic modalities including clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, acupuncture, and vitamin/nutrient therapy. Dr. Dominique is certified in prescribing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can be a helpful option for menopausal patients with severe symptoms. Below are some of the conditions that Dr. Dominique commonly sees and treats in practice.
Menopause and perimenopause
Irregular menstrual cycles
Hormonal acne
Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Chronic bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections