Hypothyroidism

Description

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone to meet the body’s needs. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. When the thyroid gland is not producing enough hormones, it can slow down the body’s metabolism, leading to a variety of symptoms.

This is a fairly common condition and can affect both genders although it is more frequently seen in women. Hypothyroidism has a tendency to run in families. This condition is often underdiagnosed, where thyroid panel tests often measure as normal yet patients have hypothyroid symptoms and respond well to thyroid support. The onset of hypothyroidism is usually gradual and progressive.

How to do a home test for an underactive thyroid:
Upon waking in the morning, and before getting out of bed, take your temperature with an under-arm thermometer for 15 minutes. Make a note of your temperature in this way for 5 days. The normal temperature range is between 36.4C – 36.7C, If your temperature is consistently below this range over the 5-day period, your thyroid is most likely underactive, If this is the case consult with a medical professional.

Symptoms

The thyroid hormone affects all cells in the body, a deficiency therefore can result in a large number of different symptoms, these can include:

1. Depression
2. Unexpected weight gain or difficulty in losing weight.
3. Fatigue/low energy
4. Heavy often painful menstruation or menstrual problems.
5. Respiratory infections.
6. Constipation.
7. Migraines/Headaches.
8. Intolerance to the cold (the thyroid gland is responsible for regulating the body’s temperature).
9. Dry skin with dry/brittle hair.
10. Fertility problems.
11. Difficulty concentrating,
12. Low libido.
13. Drooping, swollen eyes.
14. Possible goiter (a swelling of the neck resulting from enlargement of the thyroid gland.
15. Hoarseness.
16. Yellowing of the skin especially on the palms.
17. High blood pressure.
18. Elevated cholesterol and homocysteine levels.

Treatments

1. Conventional treatment will involve a form of hormone replacement therapy with a synthetic thyroid hormone that is taken daily. Thyroid medications have been known to interact with other drugs interfering with their effectiveness. Ask your Dr about possible interactions with other drugs you are taking.

2. Avoid fluoride often found in toothpaste as well as chlorine in tap water. Both fluoride and chlorine are chemically similar to iodine and block iodine receptors in the thyroid leading to a reduction in hormone production.

3. Only drink Steam distilled water wherever possible.

4. The homeopathic remedy Calcarea carbonica may assist to increase thyroid function.

5. Applying a natural progesterone cream may help to increase thyroid activity

6. Avoid lithium (used to treat depression), and any sulfa-containing drugs or antihistamines unless directed to do so by a medical professional.

7. Moderate daily exercise is recommended.

Nutrients and supplements:

1. Kelp – contains iodine that is required for thyroid function
2. Vitamin B Complex – required for proper thyroid function
3. Selenium – an immune protector and antioxidant
4. Zinc – an immune stimulant
5. Swedish bitters – may assist with thyroid problems
6. Buffered Vitamin C – required for immune function
7. Vitamin E – is an antioxidant that also improves circulation.
8. Thyroid U – for an underactive thyroid.
9. Lugol’s Iodine – is a solution of iodine and potassium iodide that has been used for many years as a supplement to support thyroid health. In some cases, it may help with an overactive or underactive thyroid.
10. Brewers yeast – a good source of B vitamins

Causes

1. Hypothyroidism, is most commonly caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (an autoimmune disorder). Autoimmune disorders are caused by the immune system attacking healthy tissue, In the case of Hashimoto’s disease, the immune system attacks the thyroid’s hormone-producing cells usually resulting in a hormone production decline.

2. Other causes of hypothyroidism may include:
a. Radioiodine treatment (a treatment for overactive thyroid and certain types of thyroid cancer).
b. Where part or all of the thyroid gland has been surgically removed.
c. Side effects of certain medications.
d. Dietary iodine deficiency.
e. Damage to the pituitary gland.
f. Birth defects (Congenital hypothyroidism).
g. Pregnancy.
h. Hereditary (genetically transmitted from parent to offspring).

Underlying Emotions

Feeling stifled, not feeling that adequate love and support was/is given by others. Feeling stuck in the past and not being able to move forward. There is a tendency not to feel not good enough and to worry about what others may think. People with this condition generally do not feel acknowledged. There is a tendency to give up easily rather than to face failure and disappointment.

Diet

1. In general maintain a healthy diet and use fresh foods as close to their natural state as possible. Include daily servings of leafy green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, fresh fruit, zinc-rich legumes like peas, lentils, chickpeas, beans (not soybeans), and proteins with a minimum of animal fat.

2. Drink at least 8 cups of steam-distilled water daily.

3. The following are good sources of dietary Iodine and can be eaten several times a week
a. Seaweed (nori, kelp, kombu, wakame)
b. Saltwater fish (mackerel and sardines),
c. Shellfish. Note: Shellfish should be avoided by those suffering from food allergies.
d. Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt). Note: dairy products should be avoided by those suffering from lactose intolerance, allergies, or food sensitivities.
e. Eggs.
f. Chicken.

4. Avoid prepackaged and processed foods, sugars, and refined carbohydrates

5. NOTE: Certain raw foods may contain substances that prevent iodine absorption in the body, these include broccoli, cauliflower, turnips, cabbage, mustard greens, kale, spinach, peaches, pears, and soybeans. These either need to be eaten cooked or omitted from the diet if severe symptoms are present.

Remedies