Why a Normal TSH Doesn’t Mean Your Thyroid Is Healthy

Many people are told their thyroid labs are “normal” — yet they still feel exhausted, foggy, gain weight easily, or struggle with mood and energy.

In this episode, Dr. Var breaks down why a normal TSH does not always mean your thyroid is functioning optimally and what may be getting missed in standard testing.

Using a Better Medicine approach that integrates conventional, functional, integrative, and lifestyle medicine, this episode explains how thyroid hormones actually work in the body — and why symptoms matter just as much as lab ranges.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

What TSH actually measures — and its limitations

The difference between T4, T3, and reverse T3

Why T4 is inactive and must be converted to T3

How stress and cortisol can impair thyroid hormone conversion

The role of nutrients like zinc and selenium in thyroid function

Why reverse T3 may rise during chronic stress or illness

When an expanded thyroid panel may be appropriate

Why thyroid antibodies matter, even before labs look abnormal

What to consider if you’re on thyroid medication but still symptomatic

This episode is especially helpful if: Your thyroid labs are “normal” but you don’t feel well You’re on levothyroxine and still struggling with symptoms You’ve been told nothing is wrong — but your body says otherwise You want a clearer understanding of how thyroid hormones actually work

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always work with your healthcare provider to determine which labs or treatments are appropriate for you.

If you found this episode helpful, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s been told their thyroid is “fine” — but doesn’t feel that way.