What's a common disease that over 5 million Americans suffer from
and many may not even be aware they have it? Hypothyroidism and
related forms of thyroid dysfunction!
The thyroid gland looks like a little bow tie and is located at
the base of the throat, below the Adam's apple in males. Thyroid
dysfunction affects both males and females. This gland produces
hormones which control the body's metabolism, your internal
thermostat of sorts.
Thyroid dysfunction is generally either an over or under
production of the hormone. Under active thyroid hormone
production is called hypothyroidism; whereas too much, or
overactive thyroid hormone production is called hyperthyroidism.
Some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism include chronic fatigue
and weakness, weight gain or difficulty losing weight, hair loss
or coarse, dry hair, dry and rough skin, intolerance to cold,
abnormal menstrual cycles, decreased sex drive, memory loss,
depression and irritability, constipation, muscle cramps. Not
all symptoms are always present.
Some doctors prefer to diagnose hypothyroidism with a blood test.
They will test to check TSH levels (the thyroid stimulating
hormone produced by the pituitary gland) and T4 levels (the main
thyroid hormone). Other doctors prefer to take a more holistic
approach and are able to diagnose based on symptoms. Morning
body temperature readings (below 97.1 consistently) as well as
discovery of regular waking up approximately four hours after
going to bed, can aid in the diagnosis.
There are chemical, synthetic treatments that can be used to
restore healthy thyroid functions, such as Synthroid and
Levothyroxine.
Some doctors and sufferers prefer to use a form of natural
thyroid hormone extracted from swine and cows. Yup, pig thyroid!
It's the closest to the human thyroid hormone and contains both
T4 and T3 thyroid hormones.
Naturopaths have long recognized that there are very effective
herbs that can help to promote healthy thyroid functioning and
restore thyroid health.
Armour, a natural thyroid is available by prescription. T-100 is
another brand of natural thyroid that can be obtained through
holistic processionals. Regular use of natural thyroid can help
to restore deficient iodine levels, while also stimulating the
thyroid to produce crucial thyroid hormones, thereby treating
hypothyroidism.
Bladder wrack or kelp, Licorice, Saw Palmetto and Ginger (root)
have also been known to stimulate the thyroid to release thyroid
hormones and is therefore beneficial in the treatment of
hypothyroidism.
If you're not comfortable taking synthetic medications, give
natural thyroid a chance. It's the closest match to human
thyroid and can leave you feeling worlds better. Even natural
supplements need to be under the care of your physician. Please
do not self medicate.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes
only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any
disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any
health care program.
Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.
