The thyroid gland is our body’s gas pedal, regulating how many calories we burn for energy.
Symptoms
When it is underactive, we can have any or all of the following:
- Tiredness
- Aching
- Cold intolerance
- Brain fog
- Constipation
- Infertility
- Weight gain that we can’t lose
Diagnosis
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 (find one here) 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).
Causes
Low thyroid problems are increasing in frequency.
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Autoimmune Issues
In the U.S., they mostly occur because the thyroid is being attacked by our own immune system.
This is an autoimmune process called "Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis" — diagnosed by having an elevated Anti-TPO Antibody which is a simple blood test.
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Deficiencies
A resurgence of iodine and selenium deficiencies is also contributing to thyroid problems.
Treatment
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Recommended Supplements
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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.
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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.
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