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When someone is experiencing hypothyroidism
the thyroid gland is impaired, producing too little thyroid hormone.
Hypothyroidism is due primarily to a dysfunction of the thyroid
gland itself. If the thyroid gland is removed, obviously, the
body is unable to produce any thyroid hormone. If the thyroid
is partially removal, it may be able to produce enough hormones
for a while, but over time it can become overworked and burn
out. But the thyroid can also become impaired for many other
reasons.
The thyroid consists of 2 lobes connected
together in front of the neck just below the voice box. The hormones
produced by the thyroid gland controls the bodys metabolic rate
and a dysfunction to this gland can affect every organ in the
body. When the thyroid is under active it creates a general depression
of many of the cellular systems and oxidative process in the
body that are needed for energy production. This can cause the
metabolic activities in the cells to decrease. Metabolic wastes
can then filtrate into the organs and causing them to become
sluggish.
Deficiencies of thyroxin (the hormone produced
by the thyroid) leave the body feeling tired and run down. As
the metabolism slows down, weight gain and constipation are often
experienced. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue,
lack of energy, intolerance to cold temperatures, menstrual irregularities,
depression, sluggish reflexes, hair loss, dry, coarse skin, brittle
nails and puffiness around the eyes. Typically symptoms present
themselves slowly and often evade detection.
The most common cause of hypothyroidism
is inflammation that damages the thyroid tissue. This damage
causes the bodys immune cells, which normally fight infection,
to attack the thyroid and leave them incapable of producing enough
hormones.
Hypothyroidism is often seen in post pardum
women and is often mistaken for post partom depression. Medications,
such as Lithium also cause thyroid dysfunction. While rare, disorders
to the pituitary or hypothalamus glands in the brain can also
lead to this and other hormonal imbalances.
Recommendations For Wellness
Reduce soy consumption. Soy can depress
thyroid function and has been shown to cause goiters (an enlargement
of the thyroid gland) in healthy individuals.
Alkalinize the body! This may help to prevent
thyroid dysfunction in the first place.
Get rid of the saturated fats from your
diet. Saturated fats have been found to inhibit thyroid function.
Work to balance your estrogen levels. Estrogen
slows down the thyroid gland.
Eat organically raised meats to avoid meats
that are loaded with added hormones that have been introduced
to increase the weight of livestock prior to sale.
Begin a hormonal balancing program using
progesterone cream to help bring your body back into balance.
Vitamin B3, (niacin), which is often taken
to reduce cholesterol levels, has been shown to also lower thyroid
hormone levels.
Gentian is known to normalize the function
of the thyroid gland.
Incorporate kelp and other sea vegetables
that are high in iodine. Iodine is needed by the body to produce
thyroid hormone.
Radishes have historically been used to
treat thyroid problems and have been known to keep the levels
of thyroid hormones balanced.
If depression due to hypothyroidism is
a problem, try taking St. John's Wort to help elevate your mood.
Chronic constipation can be addressed by
adding additional dietary fiber such as psyllium to your diet.
Herbal laxatives, such as cascara sagrada or Nature's Sunshine's
LBS II can also be used as required.
Try supplementing with zinc and selenium.
Studies indicate that severe zinc or selenium deficiencies can
cause decreased thyroid hormone levels.
Coconut oil stimulates the thyroid gland
and is a good choice for those suffering from an under active
thyroid.
One of the most effective supplements for
hypothyroidism is desiccated thyroid gland that comes from pigs.
It was used long before synthetic forms of thyroid medications
became available and is processed by the body more naturally.
© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer
2005. All rights reserved.
Dr. Rita Louise, PhD is a Naturopathic
Physician and it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive that
enlivens her work. Author of the books Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4
and The Power Within, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. a can help you identify
what is really going on and provide you with straightforward
guidance and advice. Visit her website at http://www.soulhealer.com
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