10 Surprising Symptoms of Hypothyroidism Every Woman Should Know

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10 Surprising Symptoms of Hypothyroidism Every Woman Should Know

By A.L. Childers
(Featuring insights from my books: “Reset Your Thyroid: 21-Day Meal Plan to Reset Your Thyroid,” “Hashimoto’s Crock-pot Recipes,” and “A Women’s Holistic Holy Grail Handbook for Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s”)

Introduction: The Silent Saboteur of Energy

If you’ve been feeling like a walking zombie despite chugging coffee and sleeping for what feels like days, your thyroid might be trying to send you a message. Hypothyroidism—the condition where your thyroid gland isn’t producing enough hormones—can be a sneaky culprit behind a variety of symptoms you wouldn’t immediately associate with it.

When I started my journey to healing, I was shocked to learn that many of my seemingly unrelated symptoms were all connected to my thyroid. So let’s uncover 10 surprising signs of hypothyroidism that every woman should know—and add a little humor to keep things light (because who doesn’t need a laugh when they’re already dealing with a sluggish thyroid?).

1. You Can’t Remember What You Were Talking About

Brain fog: the uninvited guest who makes you forget why you walked into a room, what you were about to say, and why you even bothered opening the fridge. Low thyroid hormones can slow down cognitive function, leaving you feeling scatterbrained.

Quick fix: Boost brain function with foods like walnuts, salmon, and avocado. Check out my book, Reset Your Thyroid: 21-Day Meal Plan to Reset Your Thyroid, for recipes that nourish both your brain and thyroid.

2. You’re Cold… All. The. Time.

It’s 75 degrees outside, and you’re still wrapped in a blanket like it’s a blizzard. Hypothyroidism slows down your metabolism, which means your body isn’t generating enough heat to keep you warm.

Humor moment: No, you’re not turning into an icicle—it’s just your thyroid taking an extended nap.

3. Your Eyebrows Are MIA

If the outer third of your eyebrows has gone missing, it’s not just a bad waxing job—it’s a classic sign of hypothyroidism. Hair thinning, including on your brows, is a telltale sign your thyroid is struggling.

Solution: A diet rich in selenium (hello, Brazil nuts!) and biotin can support healthy hair growth. My book, Hashimoto’s Crock-pot Recipes, includes nutrient-packed meals to bring your brows back to life.

4. Your Skin Feels Like the Sahara Desert

No amount of moisturizer seems to work. Hypothyroidism slows down skin cell turnover, leaving your skin dry, flaky, and begging for hydration.

Quick tip: Hydrate from the inside out with omega-3-rich foods like chia seeds and fatty fish.

5. Your Periods Are Playing Hide-and-Seek (Or Overstaying Their Welcome)

Hypothyroidism can throw your menstrual cycle out of whack, leading to irregular periods or heavier-than-usual flow. Hormonal imbalances caused by low thyroid function affect the entire reproductive system.

Humor moment: Who knew your thyroid was secretly in charge of scheduling your monthly misery?

6. You’re Always Exhausted (Even After 10 Hours of Sleep)

If you’re waking up feeling like you’ve run a marathon, thyroid fatigue might be the culprit. With a slow metabolism, your cells don’t produce enough energy, leaving you feeling drained.

Solution: For energy-boosting recipes and tips, check out A Women’s Holistic Holy Grail Handbook for Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s. It’s packed with practical advice to help you regain your vitality.

7. You’re Gaining Weight… and It Won’t Budge

Your diet hasn’t changed, and yet your jeans are tighter than ever. Hypothyroidism slows your metabolism, making it harder to burn calories and easier to gain weight.

Pro tip: Focus on anti-inflammatory, thyroid-friendly foods to support your metabolism. My book, Reset Your Thyroid: 21-Day Meal Plan to Reset Your Thyroid, provides a roadmap to get you back on track.

8. Your Voice Sounds Different

A deeper or hoarser voice could signal an enlarged thyroid, also known as a goiter. This symptom is often overlooked but can be a key indicator of thyroid issues.

Quick check: Place your fingers on your neck and gently feel for any swelling around your thyroid area.

9. You’re Depressed or Anxious for No Clear Reason

Mood swings, depression, or anxiety can often be linked to low thyroid hormones. Your thyroid plays a big role in regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood.

Humor moment: If you’re crying over spilled milk, it’s probably not just the milk.

10. Your Digestive System Is on Strike

Hypothyroidism can lead to a sluggish digestive system, resulting in chronic constipation or bloating.

Quick tip: Foods like sweet potatoes, bone broth, and leafy greens can promote better digestion. You’ll find plenty of gut-friendly recipes in Hashimoto’s Crock-pot Recipes.

Why You Need to Know These Symptoms

Many women go undiagnosed because their symptoms are mistaken for stress, aging, or “just being tired.” Recognizing these signs is the first step toward getting the right diagnosis and treatment.

Explore More in My Books

If you’re ready to take charge of your thyroid health, my books are here to guide you:

All are available on Amazon and packed with practical tools, tips, and recipes to help you thrive.

References

  1. Isabella Wentz, Hashimoto’s Protocol: A 90-Day Plan for Reversing Thyroid Symptoms
  2. Datis Kharrazian, Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? When My Lab Tests Are Normal
  3. Mark Hyman, MD, Food: What the Heck Should I Eat?
  4. A.L. Childers, Reset Your Thyroid: 21-Day Meal Plan to Reset Your Thyroid

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet or health routine.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Body

Your thyroid may be small, but it plays a massive role in your health. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, listen to your body and take the next step toward healing. My books are here to empower and guide you on your journey to better health—because you deserve to feel amazing.

You’ve got this! And remember, it’s okay to laugh along the way—your thyroid might even thank you for it.

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