PCOS and Thyroid Health
The Hypothyroidism and PCOS Connection
Nutritionist advice for PCOS & thyroid health in Manchester & online
You’re not imagining it…The fatigue, brain fog, stubborn weight, irregular periods or constant cold hands – these symptoms might be brushed off as part of life with PCOS, but they could also point to thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism.
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Many women with PCOS also experience underactive thyroid function, often without knowing it. Both conditions affect hormones, metabolism, energy and weight, and when they occur together, symptoms can feel even harder to manage.
Personalised Nutrition Plans for PCOS & Thyroid Health
Thyroid Support
Gut Health Support
Blood Sugar Balance
Energy Balance
Online Thyroid Nutritionist
How Food Impacts Your Thyroid Health
Nutrition Programmes​ for Thyroid Health
The food you eat can have a profound effect on your thyroid function.
Certain nutrients, such as iodine, selenium, zinc, and vitamin D, are essential for proper thyroid health.
However, it’s not just about adding the right foods; it’s also about understanding potential triggers, like gluten, inflammatory foods, and excessive sugar, which may exacerbate thyroid issues.
A nutritionist can help you...
As an experienced nutritionist specialising in thyroid health, I use an evidence-based, functional medicine approach to create personalised nutrition plans.
These plans are designed to support your thyroid function, address nutrient deficiencies, and improve your overall wellbeing.
What’s the connection between PCOS and hypothyroidism?
There’s a well-documented overlap between PCOS and thyroid disorders, particularly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that causes hypothyroidism.
Research shows:
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Women with PCOS are more likely to have thyroid antibodies
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Both PCOS and hypothyroidism are linked to insulin resistance, inflammation and hormonal imbalance
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Hypothyroidism can worsen PCOS symptoms like slow metabolism, irregular cycles and low mood
Yet thyroid issues are often missed because lab results fall into a “normal” range, or only TSH is tested.
Common Symptoms When PCOS and Thyroid Issues Overlap
Nutrition Advice for Managing PCOS & Thyroid Problems
If you have PCOS and also experience:
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Persistent fatigue or poor sleep quality
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Sluggish metabolism or weight gain despite eating well
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Feeling cold, especially in hands and feet
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Low mood, anxiety or brain fog
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Thinning outer eyebrows or hair loss
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Constipation or dry skin
…it’s worth exploring your thyroid function more closely.
These symptoms aren’t “just PCOS” they could be your body’s way of telling you that something deeper is affecting your hormone balance and energy.
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Struggling with constant cravings and energy crashes with PCOS? Many women with PCOS experience blood sugar imbalances that drive cravings, weight gain, and fatigue.
My Free 5-Day Crush PCOS Cravings Meal Plan is designed to support blood sugar balance with satisfying, high-protein meals that nourish your body – no diets, no calorie counting.
Click here to download your PCOS-friendly meal plan and feel more in control.
How I Support Thyroid & PCOS Symptoms Together
The PCOS Hormone Shift Method
In my 12-week PCOS Hormone Shift Method, we look beyond surface symptoms to explore what may be driving hormone and metabolic imbalances. This includes assessing thyroid health as part of a wider functional view of the body.
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Depending on your needs, we may:
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Review thyroid markers like TSH, Free T3, Free T4 and thyroid antibodies
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Use nutrient-focused nutrition plans to support thyroid conversion and function (e.g. selenium, zinc, iodine, B12, iron)
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Address blood sugar regulation and inflammation, which impact both PCOS and thyroid health
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Explore gut health, stress, or autoimmunity if relevant
Every plan is personalised — no extreme diets or protocols, just realistic weekly changes to support energy, hormone balance and long-term wellbeing.
Functional Testing Options
Functional Tests to Support PCOS & Thyroid
While testing isn’t required, I offer optional functional blood testing for clients who want to explore:
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Full thyroid panel (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, antibodies)
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Thyroid-related nutrients (iron, B12, selenium, zinc, vitamin D)
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Hormone balance and metabolic function
These can be helpful if you’ve been told everything looks “normal” but you still feel something's off.
Book a Free Call
Get support that looks at the bigger picture
I work with women with PCOS and thyroid issues, locally in Manchester and online across the UK, to help balance hormones and regulate metabolism.
If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS but still feel stuck, especially if fatigue, weight changes or low mood are your main symptoms, don’t overlook your thyroid.
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It’s not about adding another diagnosis. It’s about understanding how your body systems connect, and what may be silently slowing things down.
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I work online with women across the UK who want to improve PCOS symptoms through personalised nutrition and realistic lifestyle changes. If you’re curious whether thyroid health could be affecting your PCOS, let’s talk.
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Or download your Free Hormone Health Snapshot to start exploring your symptoms today.​
Thyroid Testing
As a qualified online nutritionist and health coach, I work with high quality supplement companies and leading laboratories to offer a wide range of advanced functional tests.
Functional health testing can be helpful for sub-clinical conditions, especially where medical tests are normal yet you still have gut symptoms and feel unwell.
Thyroid health testing can give a valuable insight into the potential root causes of thyroid symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, irregular or heavy periods.
Add a thyroid test to your programme:
Comprehensive Thyroid Function Test
• Key markers: TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), FT3, FT4, TPO, TgAb (thyroid antibodies), and B12, vitamin D, ferritin & hs-CRP
• Testing method: Finger prick blood test
Prices may vary. Other health tests are also available.
Online Thyroid Nutritionist FAQ's
Your Thyroid Health Questions Answered
What is the thyroid, and why is it important for my health?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck, but it has a significant role in regulating your metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormone balance. It produces thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which influence how your body uses energy. If your thyroid isn't functioning properly, it can lead to weight gain, fatigue, hair thinning, and other symptoms. Maintaining a healthy thyroid is crucial for your energy, metabolism, and overall well-being.
What are the common signs of thyroid problems?
Common signs that your thyroid may not be functioning optimally include: Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight Fatigue or low energy levels Hair thinning or hair loss Dry skin or brittle nails Cold intolerance (feeling cold all the time) Mood changes, including depression or anxiety Constipation Irregular periods or fertility issues If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be worth getting your thyroid function checked by a healthcare professional.
How does thyroid health affect weight loss?
Your thyroid hormones play a key role in regulating your metabolism. When your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism), it can slow down your metabolism, making weight loss more challenging. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can lead to weight loss. If you're struggling with weight management and suspect thyroid issues, it’s essential to work with a healthcare professional to test your thyroid function and develop a nutrition plan that supports thyroid health and boosts metabolism.
What foods are good for thyroid health?
Supporting thyroid health with the right foods is crucial. Some of the best foods for thyroid health include: Iodine-rich foods: Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production. Foods like seaweed, fish, and dairy products are great sources. Selenium: This mineral helps convert thyroid hormones into their active form. Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and fish like tuna and sardines are excellent sources. Zinc: Zinc helps regulate thyroid function. Foods like oysters, pumpkin seeds, and lentils are rich in zinc. Vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels can affect thyroid function. Include foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products. Healthy fats: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish (like salmon) and flaxseeds can help reduce inflammation and support thyroid health. However, it’s also important to be cautious with certain foods that may interfere with thyroid function, such as soy, cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cauliflower), and gluten, especially if you have an autoimmune thyroid condition.
What foods should I avoid for thyroid health?
Certain foods can interfere with thyroid function, particularly if you have an underlying thyroid condition like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves' disease. These include: Goitrogenic foods: These are foods that can interfere with iodine uptake, such as cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage), especially when eaten raw in large amounts. Cooking these foods usually reduces their goitrogenic effect. Soy: Soy contains compounds that may interfere with thyroid hormone production, especially for people with hypothyroidism. Gluten: For individuals with autoimmune thyroid conditions (like Hashimoto’s), gluten may trigger an immune response and worsen thyroid function. Highly processed foods: These often contain excess sugar, unhealthy fats, and chemicals that can disrupt thyroid health and contribute to inflammation. Working with a nutritionist to identify and reduce any foods that may negatively affect your thyroid is essential for improving thyroid health.
Can stress affect my thyroid health?
Yes, chronic stress can have a significant impact on thyroid health. Stress increases the production of cortisol, which in turn can interfere with thyroid hormone production and conversion. When your body is under stress, it may also impact your immune system and increase inflammation, both of which can worsen thyroid problems. Incorporating stress-reducing practices, such as mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and regular exercise, can help support thyroid health and overall well-being.
How do thyroid imbalances affect other hormones in my body?
Thyroid imbalances can disrupt the balance of other hormones in your body. For example: Estrogen and progesterone: Hypothyroidism can lead to hormonal imbalances, which may cause irregular periods, low progesterone levels, or fertility issues. Insulin: Hypothyroidism can impact insulin sensitivity, leading to weight gain and an increased risk of developing insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. Cortisol: An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can increase cortisol levels, leading to stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Balancing your thyroid hormones through proper nutrition, lifestyle changes, and potential medication can help regulate the other hormones in your body and improve overall health.
What supplements are good for supporting thyroid health?
Certain supplements can help support thyroid function, especially if you have a deficiency in key nutrients. Some beneficial supplements for thyroid health include: Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production, but should only be taken with medical guidance, as too much iodine can be harmful. Selenium: A vital nutrient for thyroid hormone conversion. Zinc: Important for thyroid hormone regulation and overall thyroid function. Vitamin D: Helps support thyroid function, especially for those with low levels of vitamin D. Ashwagandha: This adaptogen herb can help regulate cortisol levels and support thyroid health, particularly in cases of hypothyroidism. Before taking supplements, it’s important to discuss them with a healthcare professional to ensure they are suitable for your specific needs.
How can I test my thyroid function?
To assess your thyroid health, your healthcare provider may recommend a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. The key markers to look for include: TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): A high TSH level typically indicates hypothyroidism, while low TSH can signal hyperthyroidism. Free T4: Measures the amount of thyroxine (T4) circulating in your blood. Free T3: Measures the active form of thyroid hormone. Anti-TPO antibodies: This test checks for autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis. If you suspect thyroid issues, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider who can interpret these results and guide you in the right direction for treatment.
