This Week’s Top Stories from Harvard Health

The lowdown on thyroid slowdown

Hypothyroidism can cause a host of health problems. Fortunately, an underactive thyroid can be easily diagnosed and treated. Midlife can bring subtle changes in our skin, hair, energy, weight, and even mental outlook. Before writing them off as products of aging, it's a good idea to make sure they're not the result of an underactive thyroid.

Get your copy of Thyroid Disease

Many people diagnosed with a thyroid condition are surprised that such a tiny gland can have such a profound impact on overall health and well-being. But the thyroid gland plays an enormous role in human health. Throughout life, this busy gland is constantly producing hormones that influence metabolism. When disease causes your thyroid gland to slack off and underproduce thyroid hormone, or overwork and produce too much of it, you'll know something isn't right. This report will help you recognize the symptoms and find the right treatment before you experience the long-term effects of this common condition.

Fish oil and vitamin D supplements might offer some health benefits

Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acid supplements have had mixed results when it comes to preventing heart attacks, strokes, and cancer in people who have already developed these problems or are at high risk for them. Yet a recent study found they may actually prevent these conditions among people who have never had these problems before.

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Thyroid Disease: Understanding hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism

Featured content:

•	Why thyroid disease is more common among older people
•	Risk factors for thyroid disease
•	The difference between hyper- and hypothyroidism
•	Signs of a thyroid imbalance
•	The role your family history plays in thyroid conditions
•	... and more!