Always Cold
Constantly feeling cold is a sign of an under-functioning thyroid gland – but don’t let chilly weather confuse you; this is only a sign if those around you aren’t also feeling the cold as much as you are.
Thinning brows
If the outer third of your eyebrows are thin, this may also be a sign of low thyroid function, says Auckland-based naturopath Lynley Baker. Other symptoms of an untreated low-functioning thyroid can include a puffy face, hoarse voice and slow heart rate.
Craving ice
If you find yourself munching on ice cubes long after your mojito is finished, it could be your body’s way of telling you that you’re anaemic, as it’s a sign of low iron, says Baker. Craving ice is part of a phenomenon called ‘pica’, which describes an unusual craving for non-nourishing items. Studies show it is often experienced by children and pregnant women. Natural fertility and women’s health expert Rene Schliebs adds that pregnant women have also reported cravings for clay, coffee grounds and even cigarette butts. Other signs of low iron can include flaky, brittle toenails and fingernails.
Excess facial hair
Excessive facial hair is one of the signs of polycystic ovary syndrome, which can be controlled with specific contraceptive pills or medication. There are also herbal remedies that claim to treat hirsutism (excess hair) in women; however, these can affect your hormone levels so a consultation with your doctor first is essential.
Bumpy behind
Red or white goosebumps on your arms, thighs or buttocks typically indicate a deficiency in essential fatty acids. Sometimes referred to as ‘chicken skin’, this is medically known as keratosis pilaris. Good sources of EFAs include leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and oily fish. Schliebs also adds that a deficiency in EFAs may cause “easy bruising, dry and limp hair, brittle nails, and poor wound healing”.
Sun-sensitive eyes
“An oversensitivity of the eyes to bright sunlight is a sign of adrenal problems,” says Baker. So if sunglasses are your saviour, or you avoid bright sunshine altogether, it may be due to an imbalance that prevents the pupils from constricting properly in response to bright light. “The adrenal glands are your stress glands, and can get worn out with overuse,” warns Baker. So do your best to avoid stressful situations if your eyes are struggling in the sun.
Cramping muscles
If you experience regular cramping, twitches or spasms in your muscles, your diet could possibly be lacking in magnesium. To increase your intake to the recommended 400mg a day, include more of the following in your diet: dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, fish, bananas, black beans, wholewheat bread and brown rice.
Cracked mouth
If the corners of your mouth are cracked, this is generally considered to be a sign of riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency, says Baker. Other signs that you’re lacking B2 include a pins-and-needles feeling in your limbs. A good way to get more B2 into your diet is by consuming milk, eggs, cereal and rice.
Burning throat
Although rare in New Zealand, a serious vitamin D deficiency can lead to a burning sensation in the throat, in addition to other symptoms, such as insomnia, cramps, rickets and diarrhoea, says Schliebs. Food sources of the vitamin are scarce, so careful exposure to sunlight is the easiest way to increase vitamin D levels.
Balding lower legs
This is more common in men than women, but bald patches on lower arms and legs could be symptoms of adrenal fatigue.
Creased earlobes
Studies have found a strong correlation between a crease in the earlobe and coronary artery disease. If you notice any changes to your ears, it could be worth chatting to your doctor.
Words by: Rachael Harwood
Photos: Thinkstock
