Managing Hypothyroidism in Children: Beyond Medication and Lab Results

Has your child with hypothyroidism struggled with low energy and mood despite being on thyroid medication?

When your child is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it’s natural to focus on medication and lab results. 

These are important, but they’re just part of the equation. 

To truly help your child manage their symptoms and feel their best, you need to look at the bigger picture. 

This includes making practical changes in their daily life that support their thyroid health in various ways.

The Role of Nutrition in Hypothyroidism

A balanced diet is more than just a healthy eating plan—it’s a crucial part of managing hypothyroidism.

Making sure your child has a well-balanced diet that is rich in protein, healthy fats, unprocessed carbs is key in helping them boost their energy, concentration and sleep.

For example, iodine is needed for optimal thyroid health. 

Most American kids get enough iodine in their diet, given that regular salt is iodized– and the average kid gets more salt than they need.

However, if you primarily use sea salt, Himalayan salt or kosher salt, your child may be at higher risk of iodine deficiency. 

In this case, you may consider foods rich in iodine, such as fish, dairy products, and eggs.

The Importance of Regular, Enjoyable Physical Activity

Exercise is often associated with weight management, but for children with hypothyroidism, it’s also about boosting energy and improving mood.

Regular physical activity can augment thyroid health and help alleviate symptoms like tiredness and depression. 

The key is to find an activity your child enjoys—whether it’s dancing, swimming, or simply taking a walk outside. 

Making exercise a fun and consistent part of their routine can make a big difference in how they feel day to day.

Managing Mental Health

Hypothyroidism can affect mood, leading to feelings of sadness or anxiety. 

Kids with underactive thyroid are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety.

It’s important to address these emotional challenges as part of their overall care. 

This includes accessing the mental healthcare team they need, including their primary care doctor, psychiatrist and therapist.

It also looks at coaching, which has been shown to help kids boost confidence, self-esteem and get rid of limiting beliefs that hold them down.

Engaging in activities that boost self-esteem, such as art or sports, and providing emotional support can help your child feel more in control and less impacted by their condition.

Encouraging relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness activities, can help reduce cortisol levels, which in turn can support better thyroid function. 

Prioritizing Sleep to Support Thyroid Function

Children with hypothyroidism often struggle with fatigue, making adequate sleep even more crucial. 

Establishing a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your child’s circadian rhythm, which can positively influence thyroid hormone production. 

Ensuring no screen time 1 hr before bed, in addition to other sleep hygiene tips can significantly improve the quality of sleep, increasing the amount of time your child spends in deep sleep – which has a long list of health benefits!

Emma’s Journey

Let’s take a look at Emma, a 9-year-old who was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. 

Despite taking her medication as prescribed, she often felt tired, struggled to concentrate in school, and had trouble maintaining a healthy weight. 

Her parents knew they needed to do more than just adjust her medication.

With the right help, Emma’s family was able to make a few changes that had big results.

She started eating fewer processed snacks. 

They also started a daily routine that included a fun gymnastics class, which Emma loved and which helped her manage stress and improve her energy levels.

They enrolled her in group coaching – which helped decrease her emotional eating, and eating when bored. 

Over time, these changes made a significant difference. 

Emma began to feel more energetic, her concentration improved, and she found it easier to maintain a healthy weight. 

Most importantly, she felt better emotionally and was more confident in managing her hypothyroidism.

Taking Action: It’s More Than Just the Numbers

Emma’s story shows that managing hypothyroidism involves more than just medication and lab results. 

By focusing on specific changes in diet, stress management, physical activity, sleep, and hydration, your child can feel better, both physically and emotionally.

These practical steps help support their thyroid function, making it easier to manage symptoms and lead a fuller, more active life. 

With the right support and guidance, your child can thrive despite their hypothyroidism.

Here at EndoMD Health, our Healthy Thyroid Membership covers not only your child’s medical and prescription management but also emotional and nutritional support for optimal thyroid health.

👉Click here to join our signature Healthy Thyroid Membership now to help your child on a path to better thyroid health!