Are You Suffering From Hypothyroidism?

Are You Suffering From Hypothyroidism? By Dr. Rita LouiseWhen someone is experiencing hypothyroidism the thyroid gland isimpaired, producing too little thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidismis due primarily to a dysfunction of the thyroid gland itself.If the thyroid gland is removed, obviously, the body is unableto produce any thyroid hormone. If the thyroid is partiallyremoved, it may be able to produce enough hormones for a while,but over time it can become overworked and burn out. But thethyroid can also become impaired for many other reasons.The thyroid consists of 2 lobes connected together in front ofthe neck just below the voice box. The hormones produced by thethyroid gland control the body's metabolic rate and adysfunction to this gland can affect every organ in the body.When the thyroid is under active it creates a general depressionof many of the cellular systems and oxidative processes in thebody that are needed for energy production. This can cause themetabolic activities in the cells to decrease. Metabolic wastescan then filtrate into the organs, causing them to becomesluggish. Deficiencies of thyroxin (the hormone produced by the thyroid)leave the body feeling tired and run down. As the metabolismslows down, weight gain and constipation are often experienced.Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, lack ofenergy, intolerance to cold temperatures, menstrualirregularities, depression, sluggish reflexes, hair loss, dry,coarse skin, brittle nails and puffiness around the eyes.Typically symptoms present themselves slowly and often evadedetection. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is inflammation thatdamages the thyroid tissue. This damage causes the body's immunecells, which normally fight infection, to attack the thyroid andleave them incapable of producing enough hormones. Hypothyroidism is often seen in post-partum women and is oftenmistaken for post-partum depression. Medications, such asLithium also cause thyroid dysfunction. While rare, disorders tothe pituitary or hypothalamus glands in the brain can also leadto this and other hormonal imbalances. Recommendations For WellnessReduce soy consumption. Soy can depress thyroid function and hasbeen shown to cause goiters (an enlargement of the thyroidgland) in healthy individuals.Alkalinize the body! This may help to prevent thyroiddysfunction in the first place.Get rid of the saturated fats from your diet. Saturated fatshave been found to inhibit thyroid function. Work to balance your estrogen levels. Estrogen slows down thethyroid gland. Eat organically raised meats to avoid meats that are loaded withadded hormones that have been introduced to increase the weightof livestock prior to sale. Begin a hormonal balancing program using progesterone cream tohelp bring your body back into balance. Vitamin B3, (niacin), which is often taken to reduce cholesterollevels, has been shown to also lower thyroid hormone levels.Gentian is known to normalize the function of the thyroid gland.Incorporate kelp and other sea vegetables that are high iniodine. Iodine is needed by the body to produce thyroid hormone.Radishes have historically been used to treat thyroid problemsand have been known to keep the levels of thyroid hormonesbalanced.If depression due to hypothyroidism is a problem, try taking St.John's Wort to help elevate your mood.Chronic constipation can be addressed by adding additionaldietary fiber such as psyllium to your diet. Herbal laxatives,such as cascara sagrada or Nature's Sunshine's LBS II can alsobe used as required.Try supplementing with zinc and selenium. Studies indicate thatsevere zinc or selenium deficiencies can cause decreased thyroidhormone levels.Coconut oil stimulates the thyroid gland and is a good choicefor those suffering from an under active thyroid.One of the most effective supplements for hypothyroidism isdesiccated thyroid gland that comes from pigs. It was used longbefore synthetic forms of thyroid medications became availableand is processed by the body more naturally.© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer 2005. All rights reserved.Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. is the author ofthe books "Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4" and "The Power Within". Itis her unique gift as a medical intuitive and clairvoyant thatilluminates and enlivens her work. Let Dr. Louise help you bringhealth, healing and wholeness back into your life. MedicalIntuition & Energy Medicine Certification training classes arenow forming. Visit http://www.soulhealer.com or call (972)475-3393 for more information.