Chinese Medicine - Allergies and Autoimmune Diseases

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Chinese Medicine - Allergies and Autoimmune Diseases.

A weakened and out of balanced Qi (pronounced "Chee") plays an important role in the development of allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Autoimmune diseases are simply allergies against one-self. Examples of these diseases include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), dermatomyositis/polymyositis, systemic lupus erythmatosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), scleroderma, myasthenia gravis, Sjögren's syndrome, Crohn's disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis (a type of hypothyroidism), endometriosis (due to autoimmune ovaritis), chronic fatigue immune deficiency syndrome (CFIDS) and fibromyalgia.

A common complain of Qi deficiency is fatigue, and most of these autoimmune diseases present fatigue as one of their main symptoms. Another common symptom is depression, whether the weakened Qi causes the depression, or vise-versa is up for debate, but the existence of depression is a fact.

Qi depression and Qi stagnation cause imbalances between the energies of the organs, which manifest itself in specific symptoms such as pain, inflammation, irritation, vomiting, diarrhea and migraines to name a few.

If the depression, stagnation, and imbalance of Qi is prolonged the symptoms become more severe. Symptoms such as: loss of sensation on the extremities, loss of muscle control, paralysis, changes on the anatomy and structure of the bones, blindness and deafness, and extreme pain.

The treatment of allergies and autoimmune diseases with Traditional Chinese Medicine

In Chinese medicine, when we treat this type of disease, we not only strive to provide relief from the main symptoms, but also to treat what we believed to be the root cause of the disease; a weak and damaged Qi.

Often it is a Qi deficiency complicated by either Qi stagnation, a major imbalance between the energies of the internal organs, or a combination of all three that creates the disease. Patients with autoimmune diseases often have a long history of allergies, and they often present complicated patterns, which cause their treatment to be long drawn.

In order to improve their Qi, the patient must be willing to make changes to their lifestyle such as: reduced stress levels, make dietary changes, and learn relaxation techniques. In the Chinese Medicine tradition, we use acupuncture to bring the person's body systems back into balance, relieve stress and pain. And herbal supplements are used to nourish the organs that need it, and to extend the effects of the acupuncture treatments.

We also provide dietary advice that is suited to the individuals needs. In our modern world with our hurried life styles, the poor choice of foods we eat, and the high levels of stress we endure, allergies and autoimmune have become all too prevalent.

But these diseases do not have to rule our lives; we can avoid them, or bring them under control by making a few changes to our lifestyle. We need to watch what we eat, supplement our diet, and reduce our levels of stress. All that together with Chinese Medicine, makes these autoimmune diseases more manageable.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Causes of Thyroid Nodules

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Causes of Thyroid Nodules.

The thyroid gland consists of two lobes that look similar to the wings of a butterfly. The thyroid is able to absorb iodine from food you consume. It is the only gland in your body that can do this. Your thyroid takes the iodine and uses it to produce two main hormones, triiodothyronine also known as T3 and thyroxine known as T4. These are the hormones that regulate the rate that your body uses carbohydrates and lipids or fats. The thyroid also helps control body temperature, heart rate, as well as the creation of proteins. Calcitonin, yet another hormone the thyroid manufactures, is a hormone that regulates calcium level in the blood.

Though we have no definitive knowledge as to the cause of most nodules and their onset, it has been found that there a certain factor that are associated with the onset. The list includes:

- Low amount of iodine in the diet

- Hashimoto's disease, associated with hypothyroidism

- Genetic defect in the receptors responsible for releasing TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone

- Radiation treatments that were undergone at an early age such as in child hood to the head or neck area

Various Nodule Types

There are different types of nodules that may develop in the thyroid gland:

Colloid nodule - The type of nodule is noncancerous or benign. It manifests itself as an overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue. It is possible to have one colloid nodule or several. Though it is possible for these nodules to become larger in size, they do not spread to other parts of the body and are contained only in they thyroid gland.

Follicular adenoma - This nodule type is also noncancerous or benign.

Thyroid cyst - These can be benign or malignant depending. These are fluid-filled areas of the thyroid glands that can differ in size. They can measure from less than 1/3 of an inch in diameter to over one 1 inch. Thyroid cysts are usually filled with fluid. Some thyroid cysts have solid components. These are called complex cysts. Fluid-filled cysts are generally benign. Complex cysts can at times be malignant.

Inflammatory nodule - This nodule type may at times develop resulting from chronic inflammation of the thyroid. This condition is called thyroiditis. There is a rare form of thyroiditis called subacute thyroiditis, which is accompanied by severe pain within the thyroid gland. There are other types of thyroiditis that are painless and sometimes happen after pregnancy. This is called postpartum thyroiditis.

Thyroid cancer - There is only a small chance that nodules are cancerous if a physician determines that you have any. If you have a family history of thyroid cancer or any endocrine cancer, you will be at higher risk. Also, if you are a man younger than 30 years of age or older than 60 years of age, with a history of head or neck radiation, you would also be at risk. Cancerous nodules are generally large in size and firm to the touch often causing neck discomfort and/or pain.

Multinodular goiter - "Goiter" refers to any enlargement in the thyroid gland. The appearance of several nodules can lead to a goiter. This is referred to as multinodular goiter. This condition causes tightness in the throat accompanied by difficulty in swallowing and breathing.

Hyperfunctioning thyroid nodule (toxic adenoma, toxic multinodular goiter, Plummer's disease) - TSH is released by the pituitary gland, which regulates the production of thyroid hormones. Hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules that become larger and actually produce thyroid hormones separate from the influence of TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone. Hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules create a situation where there are high blood levels of thyroxine accompanied by low or even nonexistent levels of TSH. A genetic defect of TSH receptors may be a reason for overactivity of nodules.

The Risk Factors

Thyroid nodules are quite common. In fact, up to 50% of people may have one. The exact cause of thyroid nodules is still unknown although there are some factors that seem to increase the risk of having one. This includes:

Heredity - Family history such as the existence of nodules in parents or in siblings tends to put an individual at a higher risk of developing nodules.

Age - The chances of developing thyroid nodules grow higher as you increase in age. Changes may happen in your thyroid as part of the aging process.

Gender - Statistically, women are more likely to develop thyroid nodules when compared to men.

Exposure to radiation - In the 1940s and 50s, many persons were often treated with radiation for conditions that were noncancerous such as in the case of acne or enlarged tonsils. If you, as a child, experience this type of treatment or experienced any therapy employing the use of radiation to your neck or head for the conditions mentioned above, then you have a higher risk of developing thyroid nodules. You would also be at a higher risk if you were exposed to radioactive particles that became airborne during any atomic weapons testing or if you were exposed to radiation resulting from a nuclear power plant accident.

Specific thyroid conditions - If you've had thyroiditis or a chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland, this would also put you at higher risk.

What Are The Complications?

In general, are non-cancerous or benign, but at times, they can lead to serious problems. Larger nodules or a number of nodules appearing together can lead to multinodular goiter. This condition can interfere with swallowing or breathing. In can become even more of a serious problem when these nodules or goiter produces thyroid hormone, which can lead to hyperthyroidism.

Along with assorted symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, muscle fatigue, intolerance to heat, and high anxiety, hyperthyroidism can lead to other complications:

Heart-related complications - This type of complication includes a rapid heartbeat, heart rhythm disorder and even congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure is the condition of the heart being no longer strong enough to circulate blood throughout the body.

Osteoporosis - This is when your bones become weak and brittle due to a lack of calcium. The overall health of bones depends to a certain extent on the amount of calcium and minerals found in them. An excess of thyroid hormone or hyperthyroidism, can disrupt the incorporation of calcium into the bones. In the situation where a patient develops hyperthyroidism, the bones are the first to display the sign or symptoms of the disorder before anything else. This is the case with postmenopausal women who are in the group of individuals with a high risk of developing osteoporosis.

Thyrotoxic crisis - This is the term used to describe the sudden and possibly life threatening intensify of the above signs and symptoms. This requires immediate medical care should this occur.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Causes of Primary Hypothyroidism in Women

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Causes of Primary Hypothyroidism in Women.

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone. Primary hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones necessary to meet the body's metabolic needs.

The main cause of primary hypothyroidism is an autoimmune thyroid condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis which affects women 3 to 5 times more often than men. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors could trigger Hashimoto's disease causing the immune system to malfunction. The thyroid antibodies attack and destroy the thyroid gland leading to inflammation and hypothyroidism.

Pregnancy could cause hypothyroidism due to the shifts in hormonal and immune functions during and after pregnancy. Pregnant women become Th2 dominant in the third trimester. Later on the immune system shifts to Th1 dominance and can trigger Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism.

Both postpartum thyroiditis and silent thyroiditis are a form of chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and could cause hypothyroidism. Postpartum thyroiditis occurs during the first year after delivery. This autoimmune condition affects from 5 to 10% of women who give birth and is characterized by high levels of thyroid antibodies and painless goiter. Postpartum thyroiditis causes temporary mild hypothyroidism that could last up to 4 years and in most cases subside later on.

Silent thyroiditis is also a temporary condition where thyroid gland becomes over reactive initially. About half of affected women progress to transient hypothyroidism which normally subsides within a couple of months. Hypothyroidism becomes permanent only in about 5% of women.

Fluctuations of estrogen during the perimenopause and menopause could trigger Hashimoto's disease and . Excess estrogen inhibits thyroid action, lowers the rate of metabolism and contributes to hypothyroidism. In the opposite case, progesterone supports thyroid function.

An adequate amount of iodine is necessary for the thyroid gland to function and produce thyroid hormones. Both deficiency and excess of iodine are common causes of hypothyroidism and enlargement of the thyroid gland.When not enough iodine comes from the diet then the person may become hypothyroid or subclinical hypothyroid.

Excessive iodine can trigger autoimmune thyroid disease Hashimoto's thyroiditis in genetically susceptible individuals and cause permanent damage to the thyroid gland. Excess of iodine in the diet can stimulate the immune system to create antibodies that attack the thyroid gland. As a result, the thyroid starts to produce less hormones and with time hypothyroidism may occur.

High iodine intake through the diet has been found to increase the incidence of clinical hypothyroidism. Iodine is concentrated in the thyroglobulin within the thyroid gland. After the ingestion of large amounts of iodine with the diet the production of pro-inflammatory free radicals significantly increases and the synthesis of hormones within the thyroid gland becomes impaired causing transient hypothyroidism.

Contamination of food and water supplies with chemical agent perchlorate could contribute to thyroid problems in susceptible individuals. Perchlorate blocks iodine uptake in the thyroid gland and may increase the risk for subclinical hypothyroidism especially in the women with low iodine levels.

Radioiodine treatment and thyroidectomy used for treatment of hyperthyroidism are less common causes of underactive thyroid in women. Whole body irradiation and external radiotherapy of the head and neck could cause damage to the thyroid gland and result in hypothyroidism.

Use of various drugs could cause hypothyroidism. Common medication for bipolar disorder lithium inhibits the release of the thyroid hormones contributing to the development of hypothyroidism and goiter. Lithium and interferons could also initiate chronic autoimmune thyroiditis with hypothyroidism. The iodine containing drug amiodarone and contract agents have been also shown to cause hypothyroidism.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Causes of Hair Loss Could Be Reversed - Discover How Here

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Causes of Hair Loss Could Be Reversed - Discover How Here.

All men and women experience some hair loss each day which is normal, but there are some who have excessive loss of hair and they want to know what is causing their hair loss. Normal hair loss is usually around 50 to 100 hairs a day, but there are millions of Americans who are losing many more. Going bald is a scary thing for many people, especially in the society that we live in, which places such a focus on appearance.

Many of us will suffer some form of excessive hair loss at some point during our life and the causes will vary. Some reasons for hair falling out can be prevented and others may not be preventable. There are many factors and reasons for hair problems, ranging from stress and hormone changes to heredity.

Men and women suffer from balding usually in different patterns. Men usually have a pattern of balding referred to as male patterned baldness. They loose hair along the front hair line and back to the crowns of their heads. Women seem to loose their hair in no particular pattern. Below is a list of some causes of hair loss:

Hormonal Changes:

Hormonal changes are some of the key factors to hair loss. Depending on hormone levels throughout the body they could actually promote hair growth or lead to excessive shedding. Hormonal changes are not only limited to women, but also affect men. Most women suffer from some type of shedding in the months following pregnancy, but it usually will stop six months following childbirth. The number one reason for men losing their hair is usually from Androgenetic alopecia, better known as male hormone hair loss. It is very common in men, but can also affect women.

Stress:

Reduced hair air caused from stress is usually only temporary. Hair loss as a result of a stressful situation usually begins around three months following the stressful situation and can last until three months after the stressful period ends. Sickness from the flu, fever or severe infections could cause stress on your body and lead to hair loss. Major surgery can cause stress on the body and can lead to hair shedding. However, majority of the time stress on the body will eventually be resolved and hair shedding will go away.

Thyroid Disease:

Those who suffer from hair reduction caused from some form of thyroid disease can usually receive treatment that would reverse hair loss. I was actually diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroid disease during pregnancy and following giving birth I had some major balding throughout my hair. After taking medication for my thyroid, my hair gradually stopped falling out and began to re-grow.

Chronic Illnesses:

Many times patients who suffer from chronic illnesses suffer from balding and the issue may not be reversible.

Infections:

Ringworm of the scalp can cause the hair to fall out beginning in a small round patch and can spread.

Insufficient Diets:

People may suffer from excessive hair loss if they partake in a low protein diet, have really bad eating habits, or somehow have suffered from in adequate amounts of protein in the body. This deficiency is most noticeable by being able to pull hair out by the roots pretty easily. Re-introducing protein to ones diet could help to prevent this issue.

Iron Deficiency:

Not having the proper amount of iron in your body could potentially case your hair to fall out. A routine blood test could tell if you have insufficient iron and by taking iron pills this could be prevented. You can also eat foods and vegetable high in iron to help prevent iron deficiency. Some women have problems with iron deficiency because of heavy menstrual cycles.

Prescription Drugs:

A low percentage of people may suffer from hair reduction when using certain medications. Medications used to treat blood pressure problems, heart issues, depression, and arthritis along with excessive vitamin A may cause problems with excessive shedding.

There are several other reasons for losing our hair including, habitual hair pulling, our immune systems fighting against hair follicles, along with our hair maintenance.

Women and men across the world suffer from some form of hair reduction during their lives. The causes of hair loss range vastly. Many times there is a treatment for hair loss, once the cause has been diagnosed. Seek medical advice if you notice your hair thinning more than normal.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Causes of Goiter

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Causes of Goiter.

There are two main hormones produced in the thyroid glands. These hormones are called T3 and T4 or triiodothyronine and thyroxine, respectively. Both of these hormones flow throughout the bloodstream and are responsible for regulating the body's metabolism. They also control how the body uses lipids (or fats) and carbohydrates. T3 and T4 are also responsible for regulating body temperature and protein production. The thyroid gland also has another hormone called calcitonin. This hormone is responsible for regulating how much calcium is in your blood.

The pituitary gland and the hypothalamus regulate the rate that the above hormones (calcitonin, T3 and T4) are being made and at what rate they are being released.

The hypothalamus is located at the base of the brain. It behaves like a thermostat for your entire system. The hypothalamus signals the pituitary gland to produce a hormone called TSH, which simply stands for thyroid stimulating hormone. Your pituitary gland is also located at the base of the brain. Depending on how much thyroxine or T4 you already have in your blood, the pituitary gland will release amounts into the bloodstream. Based on the amount of TSH the pituitary gland releases, the thyroid gland will regulate production of the afore-mentioned hormones T3 and T4.

The existence of a goiter does not conclusively signify that the thyroid gland is malfunctioning. An enlarged thyroid can still produce normal amounts of hormones. It is possible that your thyroid could be producing and insufficient amount of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. The opposite can also be true in that there may be overproduction of these hormones.

What factors can cause the thyroid gland to enlarge? Here are some common ones:

• Iodine deficiency. Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. It can be found in seawater or in the soil of coastal regions. Statistics show that persons living at geographically high elevations or perhaps inland are often deficient in iodine. As a result, they are at risk for developing goiter. What typically happens is that the thyroid gland begins to get larger in an effort to absorb more iodine. Iodine deficiency can worsen for someone who maintains a diet that is high in hormone-inhibiting foods. Such foods are cabbage, cauliflower and even broccoli. Since iodine is routinely added to table salt in first world countries such as the U.S., dietary iodine can be rules out as the main reason for the development of goiter.




• Graves' disease. An overproduction of thyroid hormone as in hyperthyroidism can also cause goiters. Graves' disease, where antibodies created by the immune system instead attack your thyroid gland, the result will be an overproduction of T4 or thyroxine. This causes the thyroid gland to become enlarged.




• Hashimoto's disease. An underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism is another likely culprit. As in Graves' disease, Hashimoto's disease is a disorder of the immune system as well. Hashimoto's damages your thyroid so that it produces insufficient thyroid hormone. In turn, your pituitary gland, sensing the low hormone level, produces TSH to compensate and stimulate the thyroid. The result is that the gland becomes enlarged.




• Multinodular goiter. This is a condition where there are not one, but several solid or fluid-filled nodules, which are lumps that have developed inside of the lobes of the thyroid gland. This too causes the gland to become enlarged.




• Solitary thyroid nodules. This is when a single nodule is found in one of the lobes of the thyroid. These are generally not malignant.




• 
  . Cancerous nodules in the thyroid often appear as a large swelling on one side of the thyroid gland.




• Pregnancy. Chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy. It is possible for this hormone to enlarge the thyroid to some degree.




• Inflammation. Thyroiditis is the inflammatory condition in the thyroid gland. It often causes much swelling and appears as enlarged in the neck area.

Risk Factors

No one is really exempt from developing goiters. Sometimes people are born with them but they can occur at anytime. Statistically speaking, they are more commonly seen after the age of 50. Here are some risk factors:

• A lack of dietary iodine. Insufficient iodine in the diet can lead to its development.




• Your sex. Studies show that women are more likely to develop a thyroid disorder. Therefore, they are more at risk for developing a goiter.




• Your age. Persons over 50 are generally at a higher risk.




• Medical history. If anyone in your family has a history of thyroid disease, goiter or dysfunction of the immune system, then that will increase your risk.




• Pregnancy and menopause. It has been shown that thyroid dysfunction is most likely to occur after pregnancy or menopause.




• Certain medications. It has been shown that immunosuppressants, antiretrovirals, amiodarone and lithium can increase your risk.




• Radiation exposure. If you've had radiation treatments to your neck or chest area as a child or live near a nuclear facility where an accident has occurred, then you may also be at risk.

Complications

Small goiters are not as much of a concern as large ones. Large goiters make it a challenge to swallow or breathe. They also cause coughing and hoarseness. There are associated symptoms such as fatigue, inexplicable weight loss or insomnia.

Preparing For Your Appointment

If it has been determined that you have a goiter, you may need further testing done. It is recommended that you make a list of questions in preparation for your doctor's visit. Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• What is the cause of my goiter?


• How serious is my condition?


• How do I treat the underlying cause?


• What are the treatment alternatives?


• Will the goiter continue to grow or will it stop if left alone?


• Is there a treatment option that will reduce the appearance of the enlargement?


• Will I need medication?


• How long will I be required to take medication if needed?

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Can You Manage Thyroid Disease With Alternative Medicine

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Can You Manage Thyroid Disease With Alternative Medicine.

Can a person refrain from drugs and rely upon alternative medicine to treat thyroid disease? It may depend upon the seriousness of the disease. If the person has a goiter on their thyroid, they may need and want a plastic surgeon to remove the goiter as part of the treatment. This would be a very rare case. Most cases of thyroid disease can be improved and treated with some form of alternative medicine.

The most serious type of thyroid disease is Hashimoto's disease. This is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system is in overdrive and attacks the thyroid gland. The natural treatment for this and other forms of autoimmune disease is to take large quantities of the amino acid NAC or N-acetyl-cysteine. It is anti-aging and fights the build up of free radicals in the body. It needs selenium and Vitamin E present for complete assimilation in the body. This amino acid is very good for your liver. Tyrosine is another amino acid that helps your thyroid gland.

Treating and healing thyroid disease with alternative medicine therapy, acupuncture, herbs, Orthomolecular Medicine, animal glandular supplements, and bio-identical hormones is possible. Amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and botanicals are affordable and are used in therapeutic doses much larger than those levels normally found in nature. The concept of orthomolecular medicine is based upon the use of very large doses of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, or botanical extracts for cellular repair. Alternative Medicine encompasses many therapies which may benefit those people with thyroid disease.

Porcine thyroid gland or desiccated thyroid can be found in prescription medications like Armour thyroid, Nathroid, and Westhroid. Enzymatic Therapy makes a product that is organic thyroid glandular supplement. There are several organic brands available and they come in bovine and porcine forms. These are quite affordable and should be taken on a long term basis. Low thyroid can result in other health problems including secondary infections like sinus or bronchitis, brain fog, concentration problems, poor memory, infertility issues, fatigue, depression, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and weight issues. Long term thyroid problems often overtax the adrenal glands. There may be a need to support the adrenal function with an adrenal glandular product for three months.

Chinese medicine is very good at treating thyroid disease. Acupuncture and moxa can be used to treat low thyroid. Chinese herbal patent formulas to treat low thyroid or hypothyroid include Tou Gui Wan, Si Ni Tang, and Zhen Wu Tang. This therapy will be required for at least several months to balance your endocrine system. Orthomolecular medicine can also treat hypothyroid with Ginseng, Reishi, royal jelly, peony, ginger, astragulus, and ashwaganda.

Chinese Herbal Formulas are good for treating hyperthyroid excess of Yang with Yin Deficient Heat. The patent formulas for high thyroid include Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan, and Zhi Zi Qing Gan Tang. Chinese medicine focuses on the heart and kidney to treat thyroid disease. Acupuncture is wonderful at calming the hyperactive symptoms of hyperthyroid disease. Orthomolecular medicine can also use Kava, St John's Wort, and valerian to treat hyperthyroid disease.

Dietary changes may be very important in helping manage thyroid disorders. Include kelp and fresh seaweed in your diet along with cold water fish at least three times per week. Avoid foods that have MSG and food additives. Reduce nicotine and alcohol in your diet and increase fresh juice. Fresh watermelon juice and spinach juice are very healthy choices. Increase foods that are high in potassium. Do not eat very large quantities of kale, brussel sprouts, or other cruciferous vegetables.

Orthomolecular medicine uses several supplements for improving thyroid function including zinc, Vitamin E, selenium, Vitamin C, iodine, and B Vitamins. Single herbs, amino acids, and herbal formulas need the proper nutrients as cofactors to properly treat the symptoms.

� Dr R Stone, MD-India

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Can Natural Hypothyroid Treatment Methods Cure Your Condition

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Can Natural Hypothyroid Treatment Methods Cure Your Condition.

Thyroid hormone is the treatment method that just about everyone with a hypothyroid condition receives. But more and more people with hypothyroidism are turning to natural hypothyroid treatment methods to help restore their health to normal. Although some people do need to take synthetic or natural thyroid hormone daily for the rest of their life, many people who thought they would need to be on thyroid hormone forever have been helped through a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol.

The first thing that is important to understand is that in most cases of hypothyroidism, the malfunctioning thyroid gland is not the cause of the disorder. So the thyroid gland usually doesn't just begin slowing down or stop the production on thyroid hormone on its own, as something causes this to happen. And frequently this malfunctioning of the gland is caused by other compromised areas of the body, such as the adrenal glands, immune system (i.e. Hashimoto's Thyroiditis), digestive tract, and/or other areas of the body. So the goal of any natural hypothyroid treatment protocol is to determine the cause of the thyroid condition. And unless the cause is addressed, the person will most likely need to continue taking thyroid hormone daily.

Sometimes a hypothyroid disorder develops after receiving thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine. While some of these people can't be cured, many people still can benefit from natural hypothyroid treatment methods. For example, someone who had hyperthyroidism and received radioactive iodine very well may become hypothyroid, and be told to take thyroid hormone daily for the rest of his or her life. But while the radioactive iodine therapy might have helped to eliminate the hyperthyroid symptoms (and replace them with hypothyroid symptoms), it did absolutely nothing for the cause of the disorder.

What Are Some Of The Causes Of Thyroid Conditions?

There are multiple causes of thyroid conditions that are too numerous to list here. Frequently lifestyle factors will lead to the development of a thyroid condition. For example, someone who has a lot of stress in their life and does a poor job of managing it might develop weakened adrenal glands, which in turn can lead to a thyroid condition. Or the person might have a compromised immune system and develop a hypothyroid condition, and eventually an autoimmune thyroid disorder such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. Of course it takes a long period of time for these conditions to develop.

Another lifestyle factor that can cause or contribute to the development of a thyroid condition is poor eating habits. Eating a lot of refined foods and sugars, skipping breakfast, and/or going long periods of time without eating can also but a lot of stress on your body. This is why one of the primary goals of any natural hypothyroid treatment protocol will be to help the person eat healthier foods that are essential for optimal thyroid health.

In addition to lifestyle factors, environmental toxins can also play a role in the development of a thyroid condition. Over the last few decades there has been a dramatic increase in our exposure to toxins, many of them in our own homes. In fact, about 2,000 new chemicals are manufactured each year. Not surprisingly, over the years there also has been an increase in the number of thyroid conditions. This obviously doesn't mean that all thyroid conditions are caused by environmental toxins, but research has shown that many of these toxins do have a negative impact on the thyroid gland.

Of course genetic factors need to be considered as well. The good news is that the majority of thyroid conditions are not caused by genetics, which means that in many cases we can restore the health in people who have a thyroid condition, and prevent the occurrence of such a condition in someone who currently has a healthy thyroid gland.

How Can Natural Hypothyroid Treatment Methods Help?

A natural hypothyroid treatment protocol will try to get to the underlying cause of the disorder, rather than just manage the symptoms. So for example, someone with a thyroid condition who wants to see if they can avoid conventional medical treatment (synthetic or natural thyroid hormone) might decide to see a natural endocrine doctor. Such a doctor will first evaluate your condition to determine whether or not you're a candidate for natural hypothyroid treatment protocols.

In order to do this, they not only will look at the standard thyroid blood tests that most doctors look at (TSH, T3, T4, etc.), but many also recommend additional tests. For example, many natural doctors will recommend an adrenal stress index test (ASI), which will help to evaluate the function of your adrenal glands. Or they might recommend a male or female hormone panel to determine if there are any hormonal imbalances. Other doctors might want to perform tests to determine if you have any nutritional deficiencies.

In any case, if they determine that you are a good candidate for natural hypothyroid treatment methods, then they will give you their recommendations, and then of course it's up to you whether or not you want to follow them. Unlike conventional medical treatment methods that simply involve taking thyroid hormone, restoring one's health through a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol can be a challenge. As mentioned earlier, any natural endocrine doctor will most likely recommend changes in your diet, as well as you modifying other lifestyle factors. They very well might also recommend that you take multiple nutritional supplements and/or herbal remedies.

So it is a complex process in both finding the cause of the problem, and then treating your condition naturally. This is why it is not recommended that you self-treat your condition, as many people think that simply eating better and taking some nutritional supplements from their local health food store can cure their condition, when this is usually not the case. For those people looking for a quick and easy solution to cure their condition, then a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol might not be for you. On the other hand, if you're committed to getting well and realize that this is not going to be something that takes a few days or weeks to correct, then natural hypothyroid treatment methods might be able to help you.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Can an Alkaline Diet Heal Your Thyroid

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Can an Alkaline Diet Heal Your Thyroid.

Some of you have probably heard of eating an alkaline-diet to prevent cancer but did you know it also helps with thyroid disease as well? Establishing an alkaline pH is the first step to overcoming thyroid disease. Your body basically has either an alkaline or an acidic pH. This is determined by factors such as diet, mineral intake, stress and environmental influences. Your body's cells will work much better in an alkaline pH vs. an acidic pH.

Your thyroid will work much better when your body is alkaline. These are just a few reasons why being alkaline can help you if you have Lyme:

• Easier detoxification of toxins


• Naturally raises growth hormone


• Improves immune system function


• Creates a more hostile environment for infections


• Better utilization of vitamins & minerals


• Enhanced fat-burning


• Better hormone action in the cell

So how does one become more alkaline? The first step is to eat a diet rich in alkaline-forming foods. These are foods that have plenty of buffering minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium and zinc. Plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, lentils, sweet potatoes and herbal teas will help to alkalize your system.

Start taking epsom salt baths with 1/2 cup of epsom salt in the tube and soak for 15 minutes every day to help alkalize your body. Participate in deep belly breathing for at least 5 minutes every day to help alkalize.

Reduce acidic food intake such as excessive meat consumption, eggs, beans, dairy and grains. Grains are highly acidic and include wheat, barley and rye. Unrefined Celtic sea salt is very alkalizing because it contains alkaline minerals so use this liberally.

How do you know what your pH is? This can be done by doing the following:

• Purchase pH paper also known as Hydrion pH test strips.


• Measure your first morning urine pH


• Take measurements for 5 days in a row, discard the high and the low, and average the middle three readings


• Ideal pH is 6.4-7.5

You can easily see what your pH is using the color-coded chart on the test strip container. It's that simple. If you find yourself acidic then you should add magnesium glycinate and potassium bicarbonate to your supplement regimen. These will accelerate your journey to becoming more alkaline. It can take a few months depending on how acidic you were to alkalize so don't get discouraged. Begin to alkalize and you will be on your way to overcoming thyroid disease.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

BodyTalk And Thyroid Disorders

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet BodyTalk And Thyroid Disorders.

The Thyroid Gland is one of the endocrine glands in the body, and is located in the lower third of the throat, above the clavicular notch. The thyroid gland is in charge of metabolism, which includes how much energy you have, how much sleep you need per night, how well you metabolize your food, and how much of that food is stored as fat. It also plays a role in fertility and sexual function. The thyroid functions in conjunction with the pituitary and the hypothalamus, located in the center of the brain. In Western Medicine, thyroid function is measured by a blood test determining levels of hormones. Cushing's Syndrome, Hashimoto's Hypothyroid, Grave's Disease, DeQuervain's (subacute thyroiditis), and goiter are some diagnoses for thyroid problems.

Hormones.

The thyroid gland produces several hormones, which, in turn, interact with hormones produced by the pituitary and hypothalamus. The thyroid secretes T3, T4, and Calcitonin, while the pituitary secretes TSH and the hypothalamus secretes TRH. These hormones interact with each other in the bloodstream via a negative feedback loop and control metabolism in the body. In addition, these hormones interact with other hormones and substances in the body, affecting growth, sexual function and bone health.

Thyroid Dysfunction.

Thyroid dysfunction falls into the category of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroid disorders are due to increased or excess production of T4 and T3. Symptoms include increased heart rate, insomnia, excess sweating, diarrhea, and weight loss. Hypothyroid disorders are due to the decreased production of T3 and T4, and result in weight gain, fatigue, sleeping for long periods of time, hair loss, and a feeling of cold in the body.

Etiology

Little is known about the exact etiology of thyroid dysfunction. In some cases, the cause is autoimmune; in others, changes resulting from childbirth are implicated. However, newer theories are emerging, some pointing to diet and allergies, some pointing to genetically inherited conditions, and some involve deficiencies of vitamins and minerals.

Diagnosis.

Because thyroid hormones affect so many other systems in the body, thyroid dysfunction must be identified and addressed as soon as possible. Unfortunately, many blood tests are not sensitive enough to effectively diagnose a thyroid disorder until the patient's condition has become severe enough to warrant medication. Many people in the "low-normal" hormonal range of a thyroid panel report debilitating symptoms, prompting further medical tests and exams, costing thousands of dollars. Others are dismissed or prescribed antidepressants or other drugs.

Thyroid Dysfunction and BodyTalk.

BodyTalk is a relatively new branch of energy medicine. A complete medicine unto itself, BodyTalk draws on the knowledge of many branches of medicine, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, Craniosacral therapy, Psychology, Lymphatic Drainage, and Chiropractic, in addition to Western Medicine's branches of neuroscience and psychoneuroimmunology. BodyTalk harnesses the body's own innate wisdom through neuromuscular biofeedback to determine where the internal communication has broken down. Then it reestablishes the energetic circuits and stores the information, much like you would save a document on your computer.

In BodyTalk, the entire Body-Mind complex is addressed. Therefore, if the patient is experiencing thyroid dysfunction, it will be addressed in the specific order that the body's natural wisdom determines it to be addressed in order to reestablish dysfunctional communication and bring about healing.

What this means is that if the particular patient is experiencing thyroid dysfunction because of a genetically inherited trait, then that is what will be addressed in the BodyTalk session. On the other hand, if the cause of the thyroid dysfunction has to do with a grain allergy, then that is what will be addressed. Other examples might be links to specific traumatic events, invigorating and enhancing blood or nerve circulation, or something seemingly unrelated, such as a link to a body part. Often, several preliminary links will be necessary before a link to or from the thyroid surfaces, because the body needs to be prepared before that specific repair is made. Occasionally, the thyroid will need to be addressed over the course of several treatments in order for functioning to be restored. However, given the alternative-a lifetime of pharmaceutical-modulated treatment, surgery-BodyTalk remains the most effective, efficient, economical, and safest alternative available.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Basal Temperature Charts Measure Thyroid Function As Well As Ovulation

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Basal Temperature Charts Measure Thyroid Function As Well As Ovulation.

Basal temperature is frequently measured by women wishing to discover when and if they are ovulating normally. Women also use this to discover the best time to have sex and there are various products that promise success.

Keeping a basal temperature chart can be a very informative exercise and is a far cheaper alternative than expensive hormonal tests. Strangely enough, although it is so 'low tech' the humble temperature chart can reveal a great deal more useful information than many laboratory tests. One of these outcomes is the diagnosis of previously unsuspected thyroid problems. Despite being quite common, thyroid disease can often remain undiagnosed for many years and can be a source of general health, psychological and reproductive problems. Clinicians other than Endocrinologists seem to be generally tuned out to the possibility of thyroid problems despite its prevalence and importance.

Women suffering from thyroid problems have reduced fertility. The thyroid gland is the controller of our metabolism and its normal functioning is critical to the health of our bodies. In some ways we can think of the thyroid as the conductor of the orchestra of the body, in the sense that it sets the correct time and rhythm. One of its critical functions is to control body temperature. Low thyroid function is characterized by tiredness, weight gain, feeling the cold, depression, slowed reflexes, coarsening and dryness of the skin and deepening of the voice especially when tired.

My first experience of diagnosing hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) happened thirty years ago when I was asked to counsel a woman who was both infertile and depressed. She had been receiving treatment for her conditions from both a psychiatrist and fertility specialist. When she arrived I noticed that she had a large goiter and asked who was treating her thyroid problem? She in turn said "What thyroid problem"? Neither specialist had observed this most obvious symptom because it was not in their area of specialization!

Another case came when I was jointly advising an infertility client with a naturopath. In this case I observed low temperatures on the basal temperature chart and asked whether the thyroid function had been tested. The naturopath had no idea that these low temperatures indicated a thyroid problem so was pleased that we had shared the information as a learning experience.

Low thyroid function can be caused by iodine deficiency, which is correctable by supplementing the diet. If the temperature is only slightly low and no other symptoms are present then the condition might be cured by eating seaweed and eating Sushi is a great way of doing this. However low thyroid function is often the result of an inherited autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis and must be treated with medication by a Specialist.

It is important to recognise the early signs of thyroid disease as it can lead to both infertility and miscarriage. When a woman is hypothyroid it is still possible for her to become pregnant. If she does, maternal antibodies against the thyroid can cross the placenta and destroy the baby's thyroid gland. Babies affected in this way are born with hypothyroidism, which causes a condition known as cretinism. If not treated at birth, the child will have deformed growth and mental retardation.

The other extreme of thyroid disease is the overactive thyroid. The symptoms are loss of weight, feeling hot, profuse sweating and eyes that appear to be about to pop out of their sockets. This is a potentially very dangerous illness and needs immediate treatment. However it is not usually picked up in basal temperature charts.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Background on Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes!

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Background on Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes!.

When diabetes is diagnosed, more is needed than just the knowledge that blood sugar is abnormally high, which is the basic definition of diabetes. If you asked the average man on the street: 'What is diabetes?', the most common answer would be: 'A lack of insulin'. In fact, less than 10% of diabetics are what is known as insulin dependent and this is usually diabetes of childhood, what is referred to these days as Type 1 diabetes.

The most common form of diabetes however, which is becoming a world-wide epidemic, is Type 2 diabetes which is caused by an entirely different underlying pathology. Usually insulin is not given on a regular basis to treat this type of diabetes.

As you can see it is important to know which type of diabetes it is in order to know which treatment is best. Methods for determining which type of diabetes you are dealing with include:

• a medical history


• family history


• a physical examination and


• laboratory tests

In Type 1 diabetes... the medical history might include:

• a problem pregnancy (in the mother)


• early childhood diseases such as coxsackie virus, mumps or rubella


• failure to thrive


• weight loss


• dehydration


• having an older mother


• having another autoimmune disorder... Grave's disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Addison's disease, multiple sclerosis, and pernicious anemia are examples of autoimmune disorders

Family history... might consist of having a parent with type 1 diabetes.

A physical examination might show poor growth, weight loss or dehydration.

Laboratory tests would be expected to show high blood sugar levels and low insulin levels.

In Type 2 diabetes... the medical history could include:

• hypertension


• heart or blood vessel disease


• stroke


• obesity


• sedentary lifestyle

Family history... might include a parent, sibling, or child with Type 2 diabetes.

A physical examination might be expected to reveal the person being overweight or obese, possibly with an abnormally large abdomen.

Laboratory testing would be expected to show an abnormally high level of blood sugar accompanied by a high blood insulin level.

Treatment:

1. Type 1 diabetes is insulin-dependent, meaning the treatment with insulin is necessary from the time the disease is first diagnosed. In Type 1 diabetes the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas are destroyed by a process known as 'autoimmunity'. This leads eventually to a total loss of insulin production. Without insulin the blood sugar levels rise relentlessly and without insulin, the person will die.

2. Type 2 diabetes is often treated in the early stages by diet and exercise, though there is a trend for people to be treated with tablets straight after diagnosis. The mainstay of Type 2 diabetes drug treatment in people both young and old is metformin. Metformin can generally be used across all age groups, as long as they don't have kidney trouble. This drug reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver in the period between meals.

Generally speaking, there is nothing you can do to change your chance of getting Type 1 diabetes. But Type 2 diabetes is a different story; excess calories of any kind or just insufficient physical exercise combined with eating too much, is clearly related to obesity. And if you have a genetic susceptibility to Type 2 diabetes, obesity will make you much more likely to develop it.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Autoimmune Diseases Arise From an Overactive Immune Response of the Body

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Autoimmune Diseases Arise From an Overactive Immune Response of the Body.

Autoimmunity refers to the failure of a living being to recognize its own parts. Hence, the body's immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks its own cells and tissues leading to many other health complications. A few well know diseases that are autoimmune disorders include celiac disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Churg-Strauss syndrome, Graves' disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Researchers initially believed that these disorders arise since the body is not capable of recognizing the antigens in its own self. However, studies reveal that this is a misconception. Autoimmune disorders form an important role invertebrate immune systems.

The genes that are related to T-cell receptors, immunoglobulin and histo-compatibility complexes are found to be vulnerable to these kinds of diseases. In addition, certain types of viruses, family heredity, environmental toxins, and adverse reactions to some kinds of drugs can result in these diseases.

External factors like poor diet, excessive stress in general lifestyle, alcohol abuse, lack of regular exercise and proper rest, tobacco and other substance abuse increase the risk of contracting autoimmune diseases.

The symptoms of the disease depend on the type of the disorder and require in-depth examination of the patient and complete medical history. The victim goes through a series of tests like blood tests and radiological studies. In addition, certain types of tests help the doctors to rule out the possibility of some diseases. The diagnosis and medication are highly important for curing the autoimmune diseases. Improper or late check ups and diagnosis can worsen the severity and curability of the diseases over a period of time.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Autoimmune Diseases - Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Autoimmune Diseases - Causes, Symptoms and Treatments.

The immune system of our body is a collection of cells, tissues and molecules which work together to protect the body against any attack from foreign bodies like bacteria, viruses, fungi etc. Autoimmune disease occurs when the body's immune system fails and starts producing antibodies which react against some of the body's own tissues. This can have a lot of effects on the body and can even prove to be fatal in many cases. It is said to be the 3rd most common disease in USA. It is said to affect one in thirty one Americans.

An autoimmune process can cause the destruction of a particular type of cell or tissue, can cause an organ to grow excessively, and can even affect the organs' functionality. The endocrine glands are mostly affected by this kind of disease. The generally affected areas include are the red blood cells, adrenal glands, thyroid, pancreas, connecting tissues and many skin and muscle joints. Women are more susceptible to auto immune diseases than men. The reason for this is yet to be discovered by researchers.

One of the main reasons for this could be that women have great immunity when compared to men for all kinds of diseases. So this makes them more prone to auto immune diseases.

Autoimmune diseases can be classified into 2 types:

Type1: Non organ Specific.

Type 2: Organ specific.

The first type of the disease can be spread throughout the entire body. Some of the non-organ specific disorders are: myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

The second type is specific to a particular organ of the body. Some of the organ specific disorders are: chronic hepatitis - a disease that affects the liver, Addison's disease affecting the adrenal glands, pernicious anemia which affects the stomach, diabetes (insulin dependent) affecting the pancreas and Hashimoto's disease that affects the thyroid glands.

Researchers believe that there are many factors that can be attributed as the cause of autoimmune diseases. Drugs, pollution, certain types of viruses, heredity are some of the attributed causes. Many doctors also believe that close marriages or marrying family members is also a major factor for the auto immune diseases.

Doctors conduct various tests like checking your blood samples, radiological studies etc to diagnose if you have the autoimmune disease. There symptoms accompanied by the auto immune disease are specific to each disease and widely vary. The general symptoms are fever, low grade infections, fatigue, dizziness and loss of appetite.

Most autoimmune diseases are given treatment according to the symptoms. Doctors prescribe corticosteroid drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some very powerful immunosuppressant drugs like cyclophosphamide, azathioprine and methotrexate that suppresses the response of the immune system and there by the progression of the autoimmune disease.

There is no best remedy other than self care. If one takes proper care of themselves without leading an unhealthy life these diseases can be prevented. Doctors recommend a diet highly rich in vitamins and minerals can help reduce the effects of the auto immune disease.

To Your Health!

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Amenorrhea I - Causes and Symptoms of Primary Amenorrhea

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Amenorrhea I - Causes and Symptoms of Primary Amenorrhea.

Amenorrhea is defined as delay of menstruation. There are 2 types of amenrrhea: Primary amenorrhea is defined as no period by age 16 and Secondary amenrrhea is defined as period beginning at the appropriate age, but later stops for more than 3 cycles or 6 months.

Women who have a delay of period used to think that may be pregnant. In fact, there are many reasons of amenorrhea. In this article, we will discuss causes and symptoms of primary amenorrhea.

I. Causes

1) Delay due to purity characteristic

Some women may just start to have breast tender at age 16 due to nutritional deficiency or genetic passing through form generation to generation causing delay of menstruation.

2) Defects of reproductive system

a) Androgen insensitivity syndrome

The person develops the appearance of a female despite having a male chromosomal pattern and gonadal production of male hormones. However, the person does not have a uterus or periods, pubic and axillary hair are scant, and testosterone levels are high in the male hormone range.

b) Turner syndrome

A common genetic condition that one of the X chromosomes is missing,resulting in absent menses and failure to develop ovaries.

c) Policystic ovarian syndrome

In some women, the uterus develops but the vagina does not, or a setum blocking release of the menstrual blood causing pelvic pain at regular intervals similar to the expected pattern of menstrual periods.

3) Hymen problem (lack of an opening in the membrane at the entrance of the vagina)

Hymen is a membrane that surrounds or partially covers the external vaginal opening. If the membrane is too thick causing puberty, menstrual blood becomes trapped behind resulting in painful pelvis and amenorrhea if the collection of blood may become larger with each month period. Hymenotomy may also be required if the hymen is particularly thick.

4) Problem with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland

As we know, in order to start a menstrual cycle, the hypothalamus releases hormones that stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormones and luteinizing hormones. If any steps go wrong, there is no egg being produced by the follicle causing amenorrhea.

5) Drastic weight loss or obesity

Females who are obese often experience amenorrhea as a result of excess fat cells causing hormone imbalance that interfere with the process of ovulation.

6) Eating disorder

Females with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa often experience amenorrhea as a result of maintaining a body weight that would be too low to sustain a menstrual cycle.

7) Imbalanced diet

Imbalanced diet causes deficiency of certain nutrients and minerals, such as magnesium deficiency resulting in imbalance of estrogen and progesterone that interferes with normal processing of the menstrual cycle.

8) Thyroid diseases

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid releases too many of its hormones causing hormone imbalance resulting in too much thyroid hormone in the bloodstream and over activity of the body's metabolism causing the absence of menstrual cycles. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, a disease of the thyroid gland where the body's immune system attacks the gland causing failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to stimulate the production of hormones that needs to regulate the stage of the menstrual cycle.

II. Symptoms

a) Dry vagina

b) Headache

c) Increased hair growth in a male pattern

d) Voice changes

e) Breast size changes

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

All About the Thyroid

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet All About the Thyroid.

The thyroid is a small gland that lies in the neck about the level of the Adam's apple and weighs approximately one ounce. It produces thyroid hormone and calcitonin. The parathyroid glands are very small and lie on the outside portion of the thyroid gland and secrete parathyroid hormone. We will be focusing on thyroid hormone.

The thyroid gland is stimulated to make thyroid hormone by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) which is produced in the pituitary gland located in the brain. The pituitary is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain which monitors the amount of circulating thyroid hormone. Iodine must enter the thyroid gland through a transport system that is repaired with the intake of vitamin C. There is usually about 20-30 mg of iodine in the body and 75 percent of it is stored in the thyroid. In addition to iodine, magnesium, zinc, copper, and vitamins B2, B3, and B6 are required for thyroid hormone production.

The thyroid gland produces two thyroid hormones: T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). Ninety-five percent of thyroid hormone produced is T4 and five percent is T3. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone which is produced as a result of one iodine being cleaved from T4. T4 is inactive so the majority of thyroid hormone produced is actually inactive. The numbers "3" and "4" indicate the number of iodines. This is key in understanding optimal thyroid function. Both T4 and T3 are bound to proteins in the blood until they reach your cells and become unbound to work their magic on metabolism.

Most of the T4 is converted into T3 in the liver. Approximately sixty percent of the T4 is converted into T3, twenty percent is converted into an inactive form of thyroid hormone known as reverse T3 (irreversible), and the remaining twenty percent is converted into T3S (T3 sulfate) and T3AC (triiodothyroacetic acid).

Reverse T3 can be problematic; even though it is inactive, it will still bind to T3 receptors and block T3 from binding and working its magic on metabolism. Too much or too little cortisol that is produced by the adrenal glands will increase circulating levels of reverse T3. This mechanism is due to suppressed liver detoxification and clearance of reverse T3 from excess cortisol production. Stress can not only cause signs of hypothyroidism but it will also impair the liver's ability to detoxify. Cortisol will also suppress TSH production resulting in low thyroid function. Immune system activation, high adrenaline, excess free radicals, aging, fasting, stress, prolonged illness, and diabetes will also drive the inactivation of T3 to reverse T3.

T3 and reverse T3 can also be inactivated by conversion into a hormone known as T2. Elevated insulin levels due to a diet high in refined carbohydrates will also increase reverse T3 levels. Toxic metals including mercury, cadmium and lead will also increase reverse T3 production. T3S and T3AC are inactive until they are catalyzed by an enzyme in the GI tract known as sulfatase. This enzyme is dependent on healthy gut bacteria. We will discuss in a later chapter the importance of a healthy digestive tract as it relates to twenty percent of active thyroid hormone.

Thyroid hormone's main role is to control metabolism (energy production) inside the cell. Our cells contain tiny factories called mitochondria that produce energy from fat, sugar and protein. Thyroid hormone controls the function of the mitochondria which determines how much energy is produced. Symptoms of low thyroid function are related to a decrease in energy production including:

• Fatigue


• Weight gain/inability to lose weight


• Constipation


• Dry/itchy skin


• Dry brittle hair and nails


• Depression


• Headaches


• Overly sensitive to cold


• Cold/numb hands and feet


• Muscle cramps


• Depressed immune system-can't recover from infections


• Slow wound healing


• Unrefreshing sleep


• Digestive problems due to low stomach acid


• Hair falls out


• Water retention


• Lateral third of eyebrow thinning

TSH

Traditional medicine relies mainly on the TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone blood test to measure thyroid function. TSH is not a thyroid hormone. TSH is produced by the pituitary based on how much thyroid hormone is circulating in the bloodstream. As thyroid hormone levels drop, TSH production will increase to stimulate the thyroid to make more hormone. If thyroid hormone increases, then TSH production will decrease because the thyroid is making plenty of hormone. The TSH alone is not adequate to assess thyroid function because it doesn't take into consideration the conversion of thyroid hormone into its active form which occurs in the liver, kidneys and lungs. The TSH test also does not take into account thyroid hormone receptor resistance. Thyroid hormone receptors can become resistant to thyroid hormone due to thyroid-disrupting chemical exposure leading to normal blood tests but development of low thyroid symptoms. Cortisol produced during stress by the adrenal gland can also inhibit TSH production further throwing off the accuracy of the test. If the TSH is elevated, the traditional physician will prescribe synthetic T4 and this will usually reduce TSH into the "normal" range. This approach does not take into account peripheral thyroid hormone conversion or receptor binding. If the body is compromised in its ability to activate thyroid hormone into T3, then taking T4 will result in a failure of treatment. If the adrenal glands are out of balance, then most likely thyroid hormone function will also be out of balance. In addition, if thyroid hormone receptors are desensitized, this approach will fail as well.

You will find that most medical physicians do not spend much time reading the peer-reviewed medical literature which provides us with valuable data on TSH levels. An excellent study was published by Obal and Krueger (2001)on sleep deprivation and thyroid hormone production. The researchers concluded: "When sleep deprivation is maintained for weeks, the plasma concentrations of T4 and particularly T3 decline but TSH remains normal."6 Do physicians ask you about your sleep patterns? Perhaps this could be the reason for the abnormal TSH. I have seen many patients who also suffer from insomnia and sleep problems and present with low thyroid symptoms and abnormal TSH levels. Does this mean they should have thyroid hormone dumped into their bodies? Unfortunately, this happens to many people. I always take into account every patient's sleep pattern and correct it as part of our treatment plan. Many times, sleep patterns are abnormal due to blood sugar and adrenal gland imbalances. Remember, you are not a lab test but a beautiful, complex being where everything is connected as one.

Testing & Diagnosis

Blood tests alone cannot always adequately diagnose thyroid hormone imbalance. It is estimated that about forty percent of the U.S. population suffers from some kind of thyroid imbalance as opposed to the current traditional figure of ten percent. This is due to the inadequacies of the TSH test. In addition to blood testing, I review a thorough case history and a number of detailed health questionnaires and also perform a comprehensive physical examination for clues to thyroid hormone imbalance. Basal body temperature testing is used by many practitioners to evaluate thyroid function but this does not solely indicate a thyroid imbalance. There are many other factors that can cause a low basal body temperature such as adrenal fatigue, leaky gut, impaired liver detoxification and malnutrition. I use the basal body temperature simply as one more diagnostic tool to evaluate the overall picture of a patient. Another sign that may indicate low thyroid function is thinning of the lateral one-third of the eyebrow.

The following thyroid tests can provide more information about your thyroid. Use this as a guide when you get the results of your blood tests:

TSH (Thyrotropin) - Thyroid-stimulating hormone is produced by the pituitary to stimulate the thyroid to make hormone. The ideal range is 1.8-3.0. Traditional medicine uses a much broader range of 0.5-5.5. This range misses many hypothyroid patients such as those with a TSH between 3.0-5.5.

Total Thyroxine (T4) - This test measures the amount of T4 (thyroxine) that is both bound to protein and unbound.

Free Thyroxine Index - This is calculated by multiplying the TT4 by the T3 uptake. The result gives you the amount of unbound T4 or Free T4.

Free Thyroxine (Free T4) - This measures the amount of unbound or free T4 which is the most active form. Free T4 is not affected by medications or other factors that affect protein bound thyroxine (TT4).

T3 Uptake - A measurement of the amount of available binding sites for free T3 on thyroxine-binding proteins. Elevated testosterone will reduce the number of binding sites and cause a low T4 and high T3 uptake. Excess estrogen from hormone replacement or birth control pills will increase binding sites and can cause high T4 and low T3 uptake.

Free Triiodothyronine (Free T3) - This is a measure of free T3 levels or unbound T3. This is the best test if your natural physician wants to see the amount of available active thyroid hormone in the bloodstream.

Reverse T3 (rT3) - This is a measurement of the amount of T3 that has been inactivated.

Thyroid Antibodies - Thyroid peroxidase, thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin and antithyroglobulin elevations indicate autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's or Graves' disease. Thyroglobulin and calcitonin are mainly used in the diagnosis of more serious thyroid diseases such as cancer.

Prescription Medications

Prescription medications do not take into account underlying physiological imbalances and may lead to dependence on the medication. The following drugs are prescribed by physicians to treat the thyroid:

Synthroid - Synthetic thyroxine (T4). Synthroid is the most popular prescription drug for hypothyroidism. Synthroid is in the top five most commonly prescribed drugs in the US. Synthroid can be converted incorrectly into inactive reverse T3 resulting in no symptom improvement. Synthroid depletes calcium for bones and may not provide improvement for patients who have compromised conversion pathways of T4 into T3 or any of the other imbalances described in this book.

Levoxyl - Synthetic thyroxine (T4).

Levothroid - Synthetic thyroxine (T4).

Levothyroxine - Synthetic thyroxine (T4).

Thyrolar - Synthetic T4 and T3.

Cytomel - Synthetic T3. Many side effects including hyperthyroid symptoms.

Armour Thyroid, Nature Thyroid, Westhroid - Natural thyroid hormone from desiccated pig thyroid tissue. Contains approximately 38 micrograms/grain of T4 and 9 micrograms of T3/grain as well as other cofactors for thyroid hormone production. Nature Thyroid is a better choice than Armour because it does not contain corn and other binders.

Many alternative-minded medical doctors prescribe Armour and other natural desiccated pig thyroid tissue. This is a better option in some cases than merely prescribing synthetic T4 (Synthroid) because these natural agents also contain T3. The problem with Armour is that it contains corn and other fillers which can be a problem for those with specific sensitivities. Nature Thyroid is the best choice because it doesn't contain corn or fillers. But the author does not agree with this treatment method because even though it is a better option, it still does not take into account the underlying causes of why the thyroid is out of balance in the first place. These natural prescriptions still only replace thyroid hormone and require dependence on the doctor for continued prescriptions and office visits. I have seen many, many patients who are on such natural prescriptions who still have many symptoms and have been taking the prescription for a long period of time. Even if someone responds to a prescription such as Armour thyroid, she should be rigorously evaluated for underlying physiological imbalances.

Another issue with such treatment methods is suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid feedback mechanisms. Whenever you take a hormone that is produced in the body, this tells the brain that it no longer needs to stimulate hormone production because it is constantly being ingested. When male bodybuilders take testosterone, their testicles shrink because there is no longer a need for them to make testosterone. Taking thyroid hormone for long periods of time will suppress natural production which may or may not return after discontinuing the medication. It is strongly encouraged that you do everything possible to normalize thyroid function before going on medication of any kind. Americans typically want a quick fix, a magic pill that will instantly give relief. Many people get this instant relief from medication but the long-term effects of dependency and suppression of natural hormone production may not be worth it. Patients who have had their thyroid removed or partially removed may require prescription thyroid hormone. If the gland is not present then thyroid hormone must be replaced. In this case, prescriptions such as Armour and Nature Thyroid are the better choice.

Conversion of T4 into T3

T3 is much more active than T4 and is responsible for most of the actions of thyroid hormone on the cell. Some people cannot convert T4 into T3 as efficiently as others. In addition, there are many factors that could be inhibiting this process.

Selenium, antioxidants, iron, magnesium, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B6 and B12 deficiencies can lead to poor conversion. The medications listed above affect thyroid hormone conversion as well as production and receptor binding. As people get older, they lose their ability to convert thyroid hormone which may be due to decreased vitamin and mineral absorption. This is due to a loss of intestinal barrier function where all of your nutrition is absorbed. This barrier loses its function as we age so supplementation is absolutely necessary. Excess estrogen from xenoestrogens in the environment, birth control pills and hormone replacement can lead to low thyroid symptoms. Estrogen increases the protein that binds to thyroid hormone leaving excess thyroid hormone bound to protein which is inactive until it becomes unbound. Cortisol produced by the adrenal gland is a major factor in converting thyroid hormone. Too much cortisol can inhibit the activation of thyroid hormone and too little cortisol yields the same result. Exhausted adrenals will cause low thyroid symptoms due to the lack of cortisol production. Insulin is a hormone released by the pancreas to handle blood sugar elevations after consumption of carbohydrates and can inhibit hormone conversion as well. Soy products have been shown to inhibit the conversion of thyroid hormone. This only goes for soy products that are non-fermented. Fermented soy products such as miso and tempeh are okay.

Vitamin C has been shown to enhance the conversion of thyroid hormone. Radiation, chemotherapy, growth hormone deficiency, and cigarette smoke have also been shown to reduce thyroid hormone conversion.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Adrenal Fatigue and Hashimotos Thyroiditis

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Adrenal Fatigue and Hashimotos Thyroiditis.

Many people with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis have adrenal fatigue. My goal is to not only explain how this develops, but to give you some tips that will help to restore the health of your adrenal glands. In addition to being a licensed healthcare professional that has helped patients with adrenal fatigue, I personally was diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid disorder, had stressed out adrenals, and successfully restored the health of my adrenal glands.

While many people are aware of the common symptoms associated with adrenal fatigue (a constant feeling of exhaustion, sleeping difficulties, difficulty concentrating, etc.), what many people don't realize is that stressed out adrenal glands can actually cause an autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis to develop. The reason for this is because chronic adrenal fatigue can compromise the immune system. So over a long period of time, this weakened immune system can make someone susceptible to an autoimmune thyroid disorder, such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

The good news is that most cases of adrenal fatigue can be reversed. The problem is that most people don't know how to do this, as many simply go out and purchase some nutritional supplements from their local health food store, hoping this will help. Some will consult with a medical or holistic doctor, but the fact remains that most doctors don't know how to properly treat this common problem. I too was guilty of this when I first began practicing, as my first few years of practicing I would also simply tell many of my patients to eat healthy, tell them to take some supplements, etc.

3 Primary Common Causes Of Adrenal Fatigue

The truth is that eating well and proper nutritional supplementation can help, but doing this alone will not be enough. To understand this better, let's look at three of the major causes of adrenal fatigue:

Cause #1: Chronic stress. This is a major cause of adrenal fatigue, as while the adrenal glands were meant to deal with acute stress situations, they cannot effectively deal with chronic, prolonged stress. Unfortunately, we live in a society where the majority of people have some type of chronic stress in their life, which over a period of months and years will take its toll on the adrenal glands, resulting in adrenal fatigue.

Cause #2: Poor eating habits. Eating poorly can definitely affect the health of your adrenal glands and eventually contribute to adrenal fatigue. This is especially true for those that frequently eat refined carbohydrates, in which many people fit under this category. The reason this can affect the adrenal glands is because refined foods removes both the nutrients and the fiber from the whole food source. While the manufacturers do replace some of the removed nutrients, these refined foods no longer have the fiber component to help slow down the absorption. What this means is that when you eat a refined food, it absorbs quickly into the blood stream, and spikes up the blood sugar levels.

So someone who has a habit of eating refined carbohydrates throughout the day (sugary cereals, and snacks, bread, pasta, etc.) will cause the blood sugar levels to spike up and come crashing down, over and over again. Over a period of months and years, this will put a considerable amount of stress on the adrenal glands, as well as other endocrine glands in the body. While I'm not going to discuss the physiology behind this here, adrenal fatigue affects the hormones cortisol (released when the blood sugar levels are too low) and insulin (released by the pancreas when the blood sugar levels are high). Over time this can lead to depleted cortisol levels, which in turn can lead to chronic fatigue and many other symptoms associated with stressed out adrenal glands. This can also lead to conditions such as insulin resistance, diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disorders, etc.

Cause #3: Not eating regularly. In addition to eating junk food frequently, many people are guilty of not eating on a consistent basis throughout the day. Many will skip breakfast, which also isn't a good thing to do. This once again all ties in with balancing blood sugar levels, and if you skip breakfast and/or go more than a couple of hours without eating upon awakening, this will put a lot of stress on your adrenal glands, eventually leading to adrenal fatigue.

There are other causes of adrenal fatigue besides these three factors, but just making these changes in your lifestyle can really do wonders when it comes to adrenal health.

How To Restore The Health Of Your Adrenals

So how can you reverse adrenal fatigue and restore the health of your adrenals? Here are some of the things you can do that will have a profound impact on adrenal health:

1. Do a better job of managing the stress in your life. I realize this is not easy to do, but the fact remains that if you don't do a good job of managing the stress in your life, there is virtually no chance of restoring the health of your adrenals. Just about everyone deals with chronic stress, so I'm not suggesting that you can eliminate all of the different stressors. However, most of us can do a much better job of handling the stress.

2. Reduce the amount of refined carbohydrates you eat. Although it would be great if you could completely eliminate all of the refined foods in your diet, even if you just dramatically reduce how much refined foods you eat daily it can help a great deal. Eat more whole foods, and try to make sure that each meal incorporates some protein. I personally grew up eating sugary cereals every morning for breakfast (Fruit Loops was my favorite), but these days have a healthy protein shake for breakfast, which includes some berries (raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries), some purified water, protein powder, flax seed oil, and an egg. And while this might not seem too appealing to you, it actually tastes okay, and it gives me a great deal of energy to start the day. If you really want it to be a little bit sweeter you can also add half a banana.

This doesn't mean you also need to start the day with a protein shake, as you can have some organic eggs, or some other healthy source of protein. And no, organic cereal isn't healthy! I brought this up because some people thing that just because a product is organic means that is healthy, but this isn't true. While it might be better than eating a non-organic brand, it is still a refined carbohydrate.

3. Eat regularly throughout the day...and don't skip breakfast! In addition to eating breakfast, try not to go longer than two hours throughout the day without eating. And by the way, getting back to eating breakfast, you don't have to eat a huge breakfast to start the morning. I realize that many don't feel hungry upon waking up, but you still do need some type of protein to begin your day. Even if it's just a few bites of something that is of high protein, that's better than not eating at all. I personally like the protein drink not only because it gives me some protein to start the day, but also immediately hydrates my body, as I add two cups of purified water. So eat breakfast upon waking up and then eating every two hours thereafter will do wonders in balancing your blood sugar levels.

4. Nutritional supplementation can help. Many people want to know if taking nutritional supplements and/or herbal remedies can help with adrenal fatigue. I personally think it's best to consult with a natural endocrine doctor, mainly because it's not as if everyone with adrenal fatigue needs to take the same supplements and herbs, and plus people will need to take different dosages. The one herb I will mention that can help with the sugar cravings is Gymnema. This is very effective in helping to eliminate any sugar cravings you have. Once again, I do recommend that you consult with a natural endocrine doctor to know what dose you should take, as well as getting a high quality product.

If you follow the advice I have given, over time you will see your energy levels return, will sleep better, and overall will feel much better. This not only can help to reverse the adrenal fatigue, but along with incorporating other natural treatment methods it can also help to fully restore the health of someone who has Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. While some of these things you can no doubt do on your own to help improve your adrenal health, if you suffer from Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and you'd like to consider a natural treatment protocol, I would highly recommend consulting with a competent natural endocrine doctor. After all, we're talking about a serious autoimmune thyroid disorder, and if you want to receive optimal results, it is best to consult with an expert.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

About Hypothyroidism - a Common Health Problem

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet About Hypothyroidism - a Common Health Problem.

By hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland is producing too less hormones to stimulate the metabolism or the body is not able to utilize the hormones. The lack of thyroid hormones slows down the metabolism and thus all the activities in the body, giving a combination of many symptoms related to slowness of bodily processes.

Hypothyroidism is common, but the frequency of the condition is not well determined. Some authorities estimate that 0.5% of the total American population have the disease to some degree. The frequency is much greater among people over 50 years of age than among young people.

THE SYMPTOMS AND COMPLICATIONS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM

The most common early symptoms are: Mental and physical fatigue, weakness, weight gain or over-weight, and depression.

One or more of these symptoms also use to appear early: Constipation, sensitivity to coldness, cold hands and feet, thick tongue, decreased sweating, dry hair, thin brittle hair, thin brittle nails, muscle and joint pain, pale or yellowish skin.

One or more of these symptoms usually appear later: Poor memory, slow thought process, drowsiness, slow speech, thinning of eyebrows, hoarseness, poor circulation, dry and flaky skin, decreased taste and smell, menstrual irregularities, skin thickening, puffy face, puffy hands and feet, swelling of extremities, overall swelling, muscle spasms, muscle atrophy, joint stiffness.

In children or young persons hypothyroidism may give developmental problems, like disturbed tooth development and short stature.

Hypothyroidism increases the risk of elevated cholesterol levels, heart disease and diabetes (diabetes mellitus). This occurs even by moderately decreased thyroid production.

THE THYROID GLAND AND ITS HORMONES

To understand the hypothyroidism, some knowledge about the thyroid gland and its hormones is essential.

The thyroid gland produces hormones that accelerate and in other wise regulate metabolism. A part of metabolism is the process of breaking down energy containing nutrients, and using the energy to produce molecules that all the processes and activities in the body use as fuel. Another part is the production of molecules that the body use as building materials.

The thyroid makes four hormones: Thyroxin (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), diiodothyronine (T2) and monoiodothyronine (T1). The hormones contain iodine, and the figures tell about the number of iodine atoms in each hormone molecule. T3 is not made directly, but is produced from T4. T3 is a more efficient hormone than T4. Therefore this conversion is important.

The pituitary, a gland under the brain, produces a hormone called thyrotropin or thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) that enhances the activity of the thyroid gland. If the body has too less thyroid hormone in the blood, the pituitary produces more thyrotropin. This makes the thyroid gland speed up its own production. By a too heavy thyroid hormone concentration, less thyrotropin is produced by the pituitary, and the thyroid gland slows down. This feed-back mechanism regulates the metabolism of the whole body.

THE MECHANISMS AND CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM

By hypothyroidism the body does not get enough thyroid hormone, or the hormones do not work effectively in the body. This causes the metabolism to slow down. When the metabolism decreases, the processes in the body do not get enough fuel and building materials, and all the body activities will therefore slow down. Energy containing nutrient will also be stored as fat, since they are not broken down.

Serious variants of hypothyroidism are called myxedema. This is a rare condition. However, less serious, but painful variants are common. There are several reasons for hypothyroidism, each giving a variant of the disease:

*An autoimmune reaction against the thyroid tissue can destroy the capability of the thyroid gland to produce hormones (for example Hashimoto's disease).

*Sometimes the production of T3 by conversion from T4 is impaired. The total amount of hormones may be normal in these cases, but the body is still lacking T3, and gets the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

*Iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, since the thyroid hormones contain iodine. In Europe and America the food is seldom short in iodine, but bad nutrition may result in iodine deficiency.

*Surgery or radiation at the thyroid area can destroy enough tissue to cause hypothyroidism.

*Injury or disease in the pituitary or of the part of the brain controlling the pituitary may cause a decrease in secreted thyrotropin, and then the thyroid will respond by producing less of its own hormones with hypothyroidism as a result.

*Some people have symptoms of hypothyroidism even though the amount of thyroid hormone in the blood is normal. One of the symptoms is raised levels of thyrotropin, indicating that the body signals need for more thyroid hormones. This variant may be caused by conditions elsewhere in the body that make it difficult for the hormone to reach their destination in the cells. In many of these cases the immune system produces anti-bodies against the thyroid hormones. This variant is called sub-clinical hypothyroidism, and responds to the same treatment as ordinary hypothyroidism.

*Some types of food can contribute to a depressed thyroid function or aggravate hypothyroidism when eaten raw in great amounts: Brussel sprouts, broccoli, corn oil, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, radishes, rutabaga, soy and turnips. By cooking these vegetables, the depressing effect is decreased.

*Factors suspected for causing hypothyroidism are: The artificial sweetener aspartame, mercury pollution, dental fillings containing mercury, fluoride and heavy metal pollution.

HOW CAN HYPOTHYROIDISM BE TREATED

For serious hypothyroidism caused by tissue destruction, external supplement of thyroid hormones is necessary.

When the condition is caused by lack of iodine in the diet, dietary changes and iodine supplements will be a part of the treatment.

Less serious, but painful hypothyroidism is sometimes also treated with hormone supplements. In these cases it is difficult to find the right dose, and treatment may result in hormone poisoning.

You can sometimes alleviate hypothyroidism by reducing the amount of food suspected for depressing the thyroid function: Brussel sprouts, broccoli, corn oil, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, radishes, rutabaga, soy, soy products and turnips. However, these food types are valuable in many ways, so it is probably not wise to cut them out totally. Also try to avoid artificial ingredients like the sweetener aspartame, conserving additives and fluoride.

Changing out mercury dental fillings and avoiding mercury or heavy metal exposure may help to ameliorate the condition.

You may also alleviate the condition by eating food that stimulates the thyroid function according to practical experience: Chia seed, dulse, fish from the ocean, flax seed, pumpkin seed, seaweed, coconut and brewer yeast.

You can find nutritional supplements to help for hypothyroidism. The compositions of these products vary:

*They may contain building materials that the thyroid uses to make its hormones, for example: iodine, acetyl-L-tyrosine or L-phenylalanine.

*They may also contain vitamins and minerals that stimulate the mechanism of hormone production by being a part of necessary enzymes, or by helping the absorption of the ingredients that hormones are made from, like: Magnesium, zinc, selenium, copper and vitamin E.

*They may furthermore contain constituents that stimulate tissue regeneration by being part of tissue building enzymes, and thus helping to restore a degraded thyroid, for example: Folic acid or folate, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid or pantothenate), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cyanocobalamin) and molybdenum.

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.

Abnormal Fatigue in Early Motherhood - When Its More Than Just Lack of Sleep

Hashimoto S Thyroiditis Diet Abnormal Fatigue in Early Motherhood - When Its More Than Just Lack of Sleep.

A screaming baby, far too little sleep, no time to yourself...... You could be forgiven for thinking that your constant fatigue is all part and parcel of being a new mum.

For many women it probably is as simple as that. But for some, tiredness in early motherhood could be a warning sign of a medical problem requiring attention..

So what health issues are likely to occur in the six to twelve months after giving birth?

Well firstly vitamin and mineral deficiencies are very common. The growing fetus will take all the nutrients it needs which can leave the mother in a state of deficiency postpartum. Add to that, breastfeeding, the stress of looking after a new baby and the likelihood that mum's diet may not be as good as it was previously and it's not difficult to see why women might become a little depleted! Common deficiencies affecting energy production include iron (especially if a lot of blood was lost during labour), Magnesium, co-enzyme Q10, zinc and B - vitamins. A qualified nutritional therapist can advise you on what can be checked for on the NHS and can arrange testing for any other nutrients you would like assessed.

Sex hormone imbalances are another common issue in the early days of motherhood and these imbalances may contribute to the feelings of fatigue which many women experience as their body tries to get back to its post pregnancy state. Unfortunately the 'coffee and cake' culture prevalent in the new mum community (yes, I've been there!) is unlikely to help as relying on simple sugars and stimulants (such as coffee and tea) can contribute to blood sugar imbalances which can exacerbate the problem further. Try to eat regular meals and snacks containing whole grains, protein and fibre to keep your sugars more balanced. Nutrients such as chromium and B vitamins may also help although you may wish to take advice if you are breastfeeding

Another often overlooked reason for fatigue after childbirth is abnormal thyroid function and a condition called postpartum thyroiditis affects around 5-10% of women. Postpartum thyroiditis is thought to be an autoimmune problem in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland causing the thyroid to malfunction. What typically happens is that initially (usually between one to four months after delivery), the thyroid becomes overactive (called hyperthyroidism) and symptoms such as unusual weight loss, anxiety, palpitations and irritability occur. Since many of these symptoms might be associated with the stresses and strains of having a new baby, this phase often goes unnoticed and can last for between one to three months. Then later on (around four to eight months after delivery) the thyroid often becomes underactive (hypothyroidism) leading to problems such as weight gain, constipation, tiredness, intolerance of the cold, depression and poor exercise tolerance. Although many women will experience both the over active and underactive stages of the disease, some women will only experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism, while others will only show signs of hypothyroidism. Most women do resume normal thyroid function within twelve to eighteen months from the onset of symptoms, although around 20% of women will suffer from a permanently underactive thyroid.

It is worth mentioning that thyroid function has to be quite severely impaired before any problems will be picked up by NHS blood tests. This is because the 'normal' UK thyroid range is quite broad compared with other countries. Also in the UK we only tend to check for Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and Thyroxine, while the active form of the hormone is Tri-iodothyronine (otherwise known as T3 ). If you think that you may have an underative thyroid but your results come back normal then it may be worth getting in touch with a nutritional therapist who can help you to assess your T3 levels and support your thyroid through targeted supplementation and appropriate diet. If stress is an issue (and let's face it, having a new baby is pretty stressful!) then supplements can be recommended to support your adrenal glands (the glands which produce your stress hormones) which in turn may help improve your thyroid function. If you are breastfeeding then do bear in mind that it is worth taking advice on any supplements that you take as some may be dangerous for your baby.

It's not just the thyroid though which can cause problems for new mums. Interestingly women who have recently given birth are at increased risk of autoimmune problems generally. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis and lupus (all of which cause fatigue) are all more likely to occur postpartum, although thankfully these are all relatively rare. Perhaps one of the most common autoimmune conditions to occur in recent mothers is rheumatoid arthritis. While the most obvious symptoms is joint pain and swelling, it is often forgotten that rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease and problems such as tiredness and general malaise are common. If you are suffering from any joint related issues it is worth checking with your GP to rule out this condition. Don't panic though- joint problems are relatively common after pregnancy and have a number of different causes.

So to conclude, if you are suffering from unexplained fatigue postpartum, then don't feel that you just have to grin and bear it. Seeking advice can help you get to the route of the problem enabling you to take steps to restore your energy. More importantly it might prevent an existing condition from deteriorating further. After all you need all the energy you can get to look after a new born!

hashimoto s thyroiditis diet.