Background
The thyroid gland is our body’s gas pedal, regulating how many calories we burn for energy. When it is underactive, we can be any or all of the following:
- Tired
- Achy
- Cold intolerant
- Brain fogged
- Constipated
- Have infertility
- Gain weight that we can’t lose
Unfortunately, the current blood testing misses the majority of people who need thyroid hormone treatment. Sadly, many physicians don’t know that the testing is unreliable, and continue to treat the tests instead of the person. Holistic physicians (visit www.holisticBoard.org to find one) know how to treat taking both your symptoms and labs into account. Anyone with even 2 of the above symptoms should consider a trial of natural prescription thyroid (e.g., Armour Thyroid).
Low thyroid problems are increasing in frequency. In the U.S., they mostly occur because the thyroid is being attacked by our own immune system (an autoimmune process called "Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis" — diagnosed by having an elevated Anti-TPO Antibody which is a simple blood test). A resurgence of iodine and selenium deficiencies is also contributing to thyroid problems. Having the problem is no big deal — as long as you get treated properly with natural thyroid hormone.
Recommended Supplements
Armour Thyroid
Adjust the dose of prescription Armour Thyroid to the amount that feels best, while keeping the Free T4 blood test in the normal range for safety. The TSH is not a reliable test. You may need a holistic practitioner to get proper treatment.
Iodine, selenium, tyrosine
Optimize iodine, selenium, tyrosine and other nutrients that support thyroid function. These can be found in a good multi-nutrient powder (see Energy Revitalization System).
High Dose Iodine
Sometimes taking high dose iodine (6.25-12.5 mg a day, and not higher without a doctor's supervision) can markedly improve energy and other problems in those with low thyroid.