The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Hypothyroidism and Anemia
Posted by Olivia (Boston, Ma) on 11/26/2011
Hello, I would like to request your input regarding the link between low thyroid and anemia. About one year ago I was diagnosed with iron-deficient anemia and been told by my doctor to take OTC iron supplements, I took it for a couple of months and then stopped. I went back recently for blood work to see if things have improved and not only have there not been any improvements, but my numbers (iron, %saturation and hemoglobin) are actually lower. I also know from the way I feel (tired, depressed, unable to think clearly, shortness of breath, etc.) that things have not improved.
I started searching about anemia and came across some information that discusses the possible link between anemia and low thyroid function. Does anyone have any thoughts or personal experience regarding this? If so, please let me know, I thank you very much in advance. I have been considering taking raw thyroid supplement and liquid iron to see if things get better...
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Magda (Edinburgh, Uk) on 11/15/2011
★★★★★
Hi, I managed to cure my hypothyroidism naturally within 8 months. Previously I was on Levothyroxinum 50 mcg for 3 years but experienced some side effects and decided to stop my medication on my own in February. The beginning was very difficult. The herbal pills from China did not help much and in June my TSH was 7.0
Then I started taking MSM, L-tyrosine, mega doses of B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, selenium, vitamin D3 (very important- 5000IU) Vitamin E. Everything in high doses. I also was drinking a lot of herbal teas like: nettle (for extra iron), horsetail, sage, liqurice root. I had a big glass of raw vegetable/fruit juice with ginger every day. I also consumed some chlorella, coconut oil, fish/evening primerose oil and bee pollen. I installed water filter to get rid of the fluoride in my drinking water and used chemical-free cosmetics and household products (no perfume as well) I consume only organic meat, raw cheese and do not drink any alcohol nor coffee and do not smoke. I walk 1-2 hours every day and use only cable internet and no wireless devices. (wireless and all x-rays are very bad for the thyroid) I reduced the use of my mobile phone. I removed all my amalgam fillings and do not eat tuna- too much mercury in there! ) I also tried liquid zeolites for a month and it gave me so much energy but had to discontinue it because of high price. This is a lot but certainly it worked because my TSH is 3.30 now and I am feeling much more better. If I do not take MSM I am losing my hair and if I do not take 300 mg of niacin a day I am getting nervous. I hope it will help. Regards, Magda
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Candyny (Cambria Heights, Ny, Usa) on 11/10/2011
Hi Imcinnamon,
I'd like to know what is your regimen/dosage amount for taking the iodine and selenium? How long was it before you started seeing results? Have you lost/gained any weight as well?
I am trying to locate a good practitioner in NYC to properly diagnose and treat me as I have over 90% of the symptoms for having an underactive thyroid in addition to an somewhat enlarged goiter. I am also looking to lose some weight as well.
I appreciate suggestions/input you have, thanks!
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Joanna (Denver, Co) on 11/10/2011
Anita, when 1st diagnosed with hypothyroidism I was put on Synthroid but was constantly ill. After refusing to continue with Synthroid, I was prescribed Armour and I felt a difference immediately, and no longer felt ill. Personally, I refuse to use any synthetic (laboratory-made) thyroid products again (e.g. , Synthroid, Levothroid, levothyroxin, etc. On the other hand, Armour Desiccated Thyroid Hormone, Nathroid, Westhroid, and other brands derived from the thyroid gland of the pig, use natural glandular concentrates or extracts containing thyroid hormone. Now I order mine online, porcine thryoid health which is much like Armour if not the same, and am feeling really good. Armour Thyroid and other natural thyroid preparations contain natural thyroid hormone. Armour Thyroid and most natural thyroid preparations are made to standards approved by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), which helps assure that its potency is accurately stated on the label. They contain T4, T3, T2, and T1 and most closely resemble natural human thyroid hormone. At the proper dose, natural thyroid hormone works quite well and are preferred by nearly all "natural" or "alternative" physicians. Synthetics, on the other hand, consist solely of T4. They depend on the body to convert the T4 to T3 and the other metabolites.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Imcinnamon (Orlando, Fl) on 11/09/2011
Hypothyroid issue for yrs, now. Nothing was really making a difference. Bought colored Iodine in a bottle from the pharmacy and did a patch test. The orange color was completely gone in an hr. Taking Iodine and selenium now, and in 1 day that huge goiter was gone! Swallowing normally for 1st time in yrs, noticed feet and face are softer in a week, brain fog gone, and my hair loss is 90 % less, My joint pains are almost completely gone, they were so bad, there were times I had to crawl from the bed to the bathroom in the mornings. I just began middle age, so this was especially difficult. I will be adding b vit and A and C as well. Why didn't I find this info yrs ago? Dr. Jonathan v. Wright's site helped as well as this one and Dr. Mercola.
Iodine, Selenium
Posted by Imcinnamon (Daytona Beach, Fl) on 11/07/2011
Seaweed
Posted by Maria (Gippsland, Australia) on 10/18/2011
Hi Mmsg, Kombu is a variety of kelp just as in Australia we have bull kelp growing off Tasmania (I think it is still harvested at King Island). Some other varieties are: giant kelp; stalked kelp; sea bamboo; wakame.
Bladder wrack is a seaweed that is often used to extract iodine and some refer to it as a kelp but I have read that it is not.
Seaweed
Posted by Mmsg (Somewhere, Europe) on 10/18/2011
Many recommend kelp. Does anyone know if kelp and kombu are the same thing?
Seaweed
Posted by Queenfrett (Atlanta, Ga) on 10/18/2011
★★★★★
Fucus seaweed is what I use. I make it into a tea.
Seaweed
Posted by Liz (Orlando, Fl) on 10/17/2011
Hello Everyone: Can someone tell me which is the best seaweed to consume? I am thinking of adding this to my diet to help my hypothyroid symptoms but do not know which one to choose. Thank you everyone for a quick response.
General Feedback
Posted by Wendy (....., Canada) on 10/10/2011
I didn't catch the original post for this but in regards to swimming in a chlorinated pool, It just isn't worth it IMO and I won't allow my kids to swim in one either. My husband would like them to learn how to swim and our pool is only open a few months out of the year but I won't let them go to the pool at the Y because it is so incredibly toxic on sooo many levels... I did a whack of research on it trying to show him the pros and cons. I recall reading something years ago about kids who swam like once a week in a chlorinated pool and how damaging on their respitory system and causing ashtma etc. Last time I was in a chlorinated pool 5 years ago on vacation, I went to get out and could hardly stand up!!! Don't let people fool you with 'salt pools'... Same diff - research it, its not the healthy option they lead you to believe. Great Wolf lodge? I walked in the room and it BURNED MY LUNGS just breathing it- YUK!!!! I turned around and walked back out. WOW, can't believe people take their kids there.
We put up our own pool and run it on hydrogen peroxide (we purchase 35% in 5 gallon jugs, and then the following year we bought them in drums (maybe 18 gallons?? not sure my husband gets them from an agriculture place that services farms ;-)) and then we buy test strips. When shocking you can shoot for 100 ppm and some recommend keeping it at 50-75 ppm.... Which seems to work well ;-) there is information online about converting yoru pool to h202. We tried ozone for a few years but it wasn't a stand alone product and we got algae so we switched to the h202 and algae bars which I couldn't find this year ;-) Just my 2 cents on the evils of chlorine ;-(
General Feedback
Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia ) on 10/09/2011
Chlorine depletes the body of iodine so I guess the answer to your question is swimming in a chlorinated pool bad for your hypothyroidism bad for you.
Hypothyroidism is caused by a lack of, or deficiency of iodine so you need to supplement with iodine & I suggest you read the book "Iodine why you need it and why you can't live without it" by Dr. Brownstein.
Iodine is needed all over the body so if you have hypothyroidism you probably have other ailments also attributed to iodine deficiency as well or will have soon.
If you search Dr. Brownstein on youtube he has some excellent videos on iodine.
General Feedback
Posted by Highonfaith (Philadelphia, Pa.) on 10/08/2011
I swim everyday for 30 min. in an indoor chlorinated pool. I also have hypothyroidism. Is this bad for me? I have ask two Dr.s but they seem clueless. I have come across a couple of comments online that suggest swimming in an indoor chlorinated pool is bad for the thyroid. Is this true? Unfortunately, because of knee problems and shin splints I have had to move to a low impact aerobic form of exercise. Swimming seemed a viable alternative.
After swimming for a year, I am now worried about my thyroid. I had the condition well before I started swimming. But, I'm wondering if I'm exasperating my condition? Or, asking for even more trouble with my thyroid by swimming? It is all in an attempt to stay healthy, and maintain a level of fitness despite my hypothyroidism, but now I'm wondering if I'm doing more harm then good.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia ) on 10/04/2011
Jessica, when taking iodine and vitamin c ensure they are taken at different times of the day. If you have an iodine stain on clothes for instance putting vitamin c crystals on the stain will make it disappear.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Jessica (Chicago, Il) on 10/03/2011
I was just told by a nutritionalist/naturopathic person that have definite adrenal fatigue and a thyroid issue, but haven't been to the doctor to figure out for sure. (No insurance) Well I took her advice with the iodine and I'm taking 4 dropper fulls and supposed to go up to 6 dropper fulls which is way over the direction doses on the packages..... And its working! In 48 hrs, the large lump in my throat that has been very uncomfortable (hard to swallow, restricts breathing) is gone or at least has shrunk enough to not notice it. I do know that with iodine supplementation you have to take Vitamin C and B's to carry it through for absorbtion in the body. Vitamin C has to be around 1500 mg and Extra B's. I was told not be scared of the high doses because you'll just pee them out within a few hours, but they are very important in absobing the nutrients. If anyone has any more knowledge they'd like to throw my way I'd love the feedback! Also how do you know if you are HYPO or HYPER thyroid? My symptoms are a mixture of both and a lot of adrenal. Which from my understanding adrenal & thryroid go hand in hand?
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Jen (Bozeman, Mt, Us) on 09/29/2011
There are alot of great benefits from daily iodine. From everything I have read and believe me I have looked into this subject extrenuously. There are a small number of people who should be careful with it. I would start small. With just a drop per day. See how you handle it. Then go up every week or two until you hit about 50 mg per day. Take this dosage for about 3 months to get the flouride, bromide, and chlorine detoxed from your thyroid and system. Then you should be able to drop back down to about 12.5 mg per day. I have read many articles saying that this is a good maintanance dosage. You could also take the 12.5 mg daily but I have read that it would take at least a year at this dosage to detox the halides from your system which in the long run is what will make your thyroid start to heal and regulate itself (hopefully).
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Geri (Wills Point, Texas) on 09/28/2011
I have hypothyroid and am taking Amour thyroid. I still have a lot of symptoms like cold hands and feet, low temp, being tired and depressed some times. I just received my order of liquid Iodine. I have read so many good reports about it, but I am kind of confused as to how long I should take it. It seems to be good for so many other things. Can this be taken as a daily supplement or can you get too much? I hope someone can clear this up for me. Thanks so much
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Anita (Redmond, Wa) on 07/09/2011
I have hypothyrodism with a level of 4.8 and my doctor prescribed me synthroid of 50 mcg which I was afraid to take. I feel week, have brain fog at innumerable times during a day. I like to know if yoga or applying coconut oil will help me.
I am having 2 drops of iodide/iodine every day on emty stomach. Please help me as I don't want to take medication. Weight gain is there.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Francisca (Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France) on 06/17/2011
Hi, there are all kinds of white spots, so it is difficult to say what it is. I started having white spots on my legs years ago, then they started spreading and the ones in the legs started getting bigger. Doctors have no idea what it is but they all assure me that it is not viltligo. It is quite ugly and nowdays I have quite a few on my arms, chest, some on my back. I have tried quite a few things but nothing has helped. I found out that this particular kind of spots is called Idiopathic Guttate Hypomelanosis. I have now been trying to rub lemon juice on them twice a day (don't go in the sun for a while after doing this or you might get more stains) also because I have a few age spots but so far nothing has happened neither with the white or the brown ones. Sorry.......... No idea what causes them!
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Cindy (Houston, Tx) on 06/17/2011
My husband also has those white spots and his doctor didn't know what they were either. I researched the net and found out that his were "Stucco Keratosis". Unfortunately there is no cure for that. I have a few at the bottom of my legs also. My husbands' always show lighter after he gets out of the pool. Maybe the chlorine does it. Not contagious, just unsightly.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Laura (Orlando, Fl) on 06/16/2011
Hey EC: I am hoping someone can help me with this problem. Shortly after being diagnosed as being hypothyroid, I noticed that small white spots started appearing on my legs/calves etc. Didn't pay much attention to it until the other day while doing a pedicure, I was stunned to see how much it had spread. Anyone knows what is causing this? Is this a common symptom of this disease? What if it keeps spreading. Help someone/anyone with an answer. Thank you EC. You people are the best!!!
General Feedback
Posted by Carly (Seattle , Wa - Usa) on 06/12/2011
Hi Loren...
It sounds like a herxheimer or detox reaction to me. You may have taken too much of a good thing too fast, and your body couldn't keep up with it. You miight want to cut back a bit on how much you drink at a time, and work up to it more slowly.
Just a thought... But any time I do anything new, if I try too much too fast I get ill. I know that it is sometimes hard to start of slow, because we want to feel better FAST... but it is really worth it to allow our bodies the time to adjust to the new thing we are ingesting (mo).
General Feedback
Posted by Hashimotos Sufferer (Melbourne, Australia) on 06/12/2011
It will be the brazil nuts and the pumpkin seeds - Selenium in both is the active ingredient. They can act to convert t4 to t3 and may tip you into being hyperthyroid. (Read Mary Shamon on this) If you are on medication for the hypothyroid or, if you have hashimotos disease as well, you may have too much active thyroid hormone in your system. This explains the headache that won't go away and a wired feeling. Don't change your medication - it takes at least 8 weeks to have an effect. Just cut out the nuts and seeds. It is so cold here that the hyporthyroid symptoms are out so lots of Vitamin D and selenium supplementation. Get your adrenals checked - that could also be a reason for night-time waking.
General Feedback
Posted by Loren (Brooklyn, Ny) on 06/12/2011
Hey EC: I have a quick question for anyone with an answer. In my quest for a healthier lifestyle since being diagonosed as hypothyroid, I started a morning smoothie made with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, wheatgerm, a few brazil nuts and a splash of milk. A day or so after drinking this smoothie, I noticed that I kinda feel wired and struggle to sleep in the night. I am tired but I just cannot sleep. Also, I developed a constant headache. Any idea whats going on? I love this smoothie and don't want to stop drinking it because of these problems. Help please someone!!!! Thank you guys.
Hypothyroid Symptoms
Posted by Loveysiera (Hayfork, Ca, U.s) on 04/28/2011
Hello Everyone,
I was wondering if anyone has had the same issues I'm dealing with being Hypothryoid.
I had RAI done in 2009 for being Hyperthyroid, consequently I became Hypo due to this procedure I'm taking 137mg of Synthroid but find that I'm still dealing with the most troublesome issue of burning and watery eyes. I now have noticed that one of my eyelids is drooping a bit my Dr says my levels are fine with the Synthroid and that in time this should go away???? Has anyone had to deal with this before?
Any feedback would be so helpful, Thank you so much...
Siera
Hypothyroidism and Heredity
Posted by Craig (Birmingham, England) on 04/21/2011
★★★★★
To those people having problems with some of the treatments for hypothyroidism you should really seek the diagnosis from a Professional Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor only. These can give you the specifics for your condition. If you're taking something heating but you have dramatic heat in the body you can cause negative effects. Same as if you have high levels of raising Qi and your eyes are bulging you cannot take foods or herbs which raise the Qi further you want to use the opposite. You'll only find these details out from a good Chinese Doctor.
Thyroid problems are very much tied to the Kidneys and Spleen which drag down the Liver, Lungs and Heart eventually. You need to know your Qi issues overall and with individual organs along with hot/cold problems in organs so you can tackle this correctly and properly. If you want to aid your Kidneys and have a Yin deficiency there then you should take black Sesame seed cooked daily. The Chinese system and diet is the only way to properly address your problems. I've found Chrysanthemum flower excellent for my symptoms which involved a lack of Yang Qi at the Kidney and too much in the Lungs creating breathing problems and hell to be honest. This wonderful flower really helps the heat in the Lungs and excess heat in the Liver which will soon affect the eyes if not dealt with. Again Chinese medicine is the only way to go properly and safely.
Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Hope (Delhi, India) on 04/12/2011
Hey Guys,
I am a newbie to this site and happy to see so many people sharing their experiences. I am 27 yrs old and have been on thyroid medication for a year now. Although this disease has messed up my life - body and mind.. The doctors I have met seem quite unconcerned with the problems I am facing. From being an extremely active girl, I have become the laziest and tiredest of all. I have put on 20Kgs in last one year and look extremely puffy. Nothing interests me and at times I feel detached to my loved ones. I don't understand why! I have asked many doctors about it... but all they do is get my blood test done and then change my medication amount accordingly.
Looking for alternatives is how I found this site and hope that it may help me to cure or at least cpe with the situation. I have started with EVCO - cold pressed today. My stomach is not taking it well right now, but I am feeling much more energetic ( I might be just imagining it! ). Anyhow, I am feeling happy enough to enroll for swimming - used to be my passion in college.
Hoping for the best!
Iodine
Posted by Stacey (Gboro, Nc) on 04/12/2011
★★★☆☆BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS
Week 1 on Lugol's 2%
Like many on the website, I have all of the symptoms of hypothyroidism but test negative. Lately, my energy levels were dropping, and I have been steadily gaining wait even though I am on the Atkins diet. I decided to try Lugol's after a bit of research.
I wasn't expecting much since none of the thyroid supplements have helped me in the past, so I was pleasantly surprised with the iodine tincture. I started with 2 drops of the 2% in the morning in a tall glass of water and ACV.
So far my energy level has increased slightly. It isn't like a cup of coffee, but rather I am able to stay up a bit later at night, and even had trouble sleeping the first 3 days. My mood has elevated dramatically; it is much more positive even with overhaging stressors. My seasonal allergies are nearly neutralized as well.
My side effects so far include trouble sleeping, a low level vaginal discharge, cloudy urine in the morning, and possible hair loss. Iodine is supposed to help eliminate candida, which may account for the discharge. It may also be the case that my hormonal levels are changing, and that is the result. In relation to hair loss, I've always been losing hair, so I;m not certain that that is a side effect.
I'll keep you posted as I notice more changes.
Hypothyroidism and Heredity
Posted by Bess (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) on 04/05/2011
Hi Trisha-bo-bisha (like the name game! ) - Have you checked out Mary Shomon's Web site (
http://thyroid.about.com/)? She has a lot of information for those newly diagnosed (Basic Info/Thyroid 101), as well as those who have been struggling for years. It's a good place to start. Also, you may want to check out your local library - there have been quite a few good books written recently about hypothyroidism. Good luck!
Hypothyroidism and Heredity
Posted by Trisha-bo-bisha (Nashville, Tn) on 04/04/2011
Hi, I need help! I just got test results back that indicate hypothyroidism. I have my first Dr. appt on Friday morning with an endocrinologist. I need to know what questions I should ask. I don't want to just go in there and take everything she wants to prescribe to me. It's at Vanderbilt Medical, so I know they are good docs, but I'm all about not taking medicine and being natural, so I need to be armed with good information. Any help?!
Remove Old Dental Fillings
Posted by Linda (Los Angeles, Ca 91326) on 01/17/2011
Dear Amy, Your story sounds similar to mine. I have been hypothyroid almost 8 years. It happened after menopause, and it has destroyed my life. I am intolerant to every thyroid medicine and have tried them all. I have researched toxic old dental fillings and still have a few left in my mouth and have always wondered if this was a problem. My regular dentist removed one and that was the start of face pain.
Since I live in L.A., can you recommend a biodentist that removed your fillings. I live for the day to get off these thyroid meds.
Thank you,
Linda at LINDAUTHR(at)aol(dot)com
Multiple Remedies
Posted by T (Austin, Tx, Usa) on 12/13/2010
I had the same issue as you mentioned. I do a combination of acupuncture and chinese herbs, along with chiropracter once monthly who suggested taking "CHIRO-ZYME T1 to T12 Rbs" (I take that one, three times daily with meals). I eat 2 tablespoons of Artisana Coconut Butter (not oil) fisr thing in the morning in addition to cooking with coconut oil. I completely eliminated soy products (despite being vegetarian). Found other sources of gluten free and soy free protein, in addition to cooking/eating at home. I also add to my diet daily Sea vegetables organic sold in plastic bags in the Asian aisles of most grocery stores. Dulse, seaweed and any other sea veg that has iodine content in it. Finally I replaced regular sea salt with 'Sea Seasonings Organic KELP Granules'. Found relief in approx 2 weeks of doing so. Once energy returned included daily exercise and am at a much better place. I was told by my chiropractor to NOT take traditional meds for this since it worsens the thyroid making it dependent on the meds for a very long time. Hope this helps!
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Dancermk (Warren, Maine, 04864) on 12/13/2010
Hello :) I was diagnosed with Hypothyroid about 2 years ago, but my chiropractor actually warned me of the problem earlier than that. I am on Levothyroxin at 25 MCG's. I have done a lot of research on the condition and things that can help or harm the thyroid, information that my dr never told me. I really want to improve my thyroid as naturally as I can. I have read about coconut oil helping and also apple cider vinegar.
My question is, how much of both the coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar would you recommend I take and also how many times/day? I have been taking 3 tablespoons 3 times a day of the coconut oil. I also read about kelp as helping, but I am a newbie and I am just not sure what to do or how much of anything I should be taking to help. I am also trying to avoid soy(challenge! ) and gluten and any refined sugar... And I exercise everyday, trying to lose about 50 lbs, that I really think came on because of my thyroid. I would appreciate any help or thoughts. Thank you :)
Iodine
Posted by Allmymarbles (New York City, New York) on 04/04/2010
★★★★★
For 30 years I suffered from ever-worsening insomnia. The cause was never found, but it was suggested slyly that I was neurotic. Ultimately I developed short-term memory loss and my exhaustion was profound.
One winter I developed a craving for clams and could not seem to get enough of them. I noticed that occasionally I had short periods of normal sleep. Then it hit me - iodine! I had myself tested for hypothyroidism. The result was positive. And I was furious. I never got help from the medical profession, lived for years as a zombie, and had to find the cure all by myself! Thanks to potassium iodide I sleep just fine. Although I started at a higher dosage, I currently take only four drops of 5 per cent solution a week. Now if I could get a refund of all the money I wasted on doctors who resorted to facile psychology instead of medicine . . . .
Congenital Hypothyroidism
Posted by Rondamommie (Kansas City, Mo, Usa) on 04/04/2010
Has anyone heard of a natural way to remedy congenital hypothyroidism? Would it be relevant, the ways mentioned for those having hypothyroidism, the kind brought about by autoantibodies? Does it necessarily mean a person with congenital hypothyroidism has no thyroid gland at all or just a non-working one/system?
Thank you!
Iodine, Selenium
Posted by Wusstambol (Tempe, Az, Usa) on 03/21/2010
Hi,
Your post is very very interesting to me.
Of most interest was the feet thing....around the time I got pregnant (a few months after being diagnosed with hypothyroidism) they started getting all thick skinned and very dry and cracked and rough.
I moved from Ireland to Arizona around that same time, so I attributed the foot issues to the dry weather here and the almost-constant sandal-wearing... Now I'm rethinking my previous assumption...and just to think about the possibility that it can all go away makes me feel happy. So thank you for that!
And that's just the foot thing!
I've been doing a lot of research recently and bought some selenium and magnesium yesterday, along with some ginseng to see if that helps at all in the meantime with the lack of energy. That's my main problem; I now have a very active 2-and-a-half year old son, and just can't keep up with him, let alone keep our house clean and make dinner, etc.
I had read some time ago that almost no one is deficient in Iodine in this country these days because of the amount of salt we eat; now I'm going to do the patch test and see for myself.
I'm excited to try all this, but am wondering, how soon can I expect to see results? Haha, I'm impatient...
Thanks for your time and for your experience!
Sarah
Hypothyroid Tests
Posted by Joyce (Joelton, Tn) on 03/11/2010 490 posts
Since so many questions have come in about figuring out what they have, thought this hypothyroid checklist might come in handy for EC.
http://thyroid.about.com/cs/basics_starthere/a/hypochecklist.htm
However, thinking along the lines that no one ever died from a deficiency of aspirin or any other drug, but they do die from a deficiency of necessary vitamins and minerals (which are usually secondary to our overfed and undernourished American diets). They might just find an answer to what ails them by looking up vitamin and mineral deficiency symptoms.
We were never told much of anything about causes of sluggish thyroids or heart arrhythmias in physiology ( and neither were your doctors) but I learned in a hurry from patients. When I had to cut a patients thyroid medication in half after putting her on Stress Tabs 4 x day, I pulled out my pharmacology book and read that a deficiency of B vitamins caused sluggish thyroid function. Another woman (in her 70's at the time) had her bijeminy heart rate revert to a normal rhythm with the Stress Tabs and throwing out the bleached flour and making her breads with whole grains. I remarked to a psychiatrist that the best nerve pills I knew of was a good stress tab at meal times and bedtime. Her reply was: "Ssh! You'll put us out of business.
Iodine, Dhea
Posted by Mary (Regina, Saskchewan, Canada) on 02/26/2010
Dear Eileen:
It sounds like you had an experience like mine with the DHEA. I have a wonderful naturopath who has a relationship with a MD where we can obtain bloodwork. The reason I say this is that I have hypothyroidism and very low adrenal function. My naturopath put me on DHEA 25mg/day and I blew up like a pufferfish. I gained 10 lb in one month and it felt like my skin was stretching. We got new bloodwork only to discover I had elevated estrogen levels! I looked like a women on birthcontrol pills in the 50's. The DHEA caused this. unfortunaltely taking DHEA did not increase my DHEA levels in y body only my estrogen levels.
The iodine on the other hand is life itself. studies have shown that 10 drops of lugals solution is enough to prevent breast cancer. there is an e book out there called Iodine "secrets of the sea". It shows all the uses of Iodine that doctors pre 1946(a faulty bias study) used it for. It was even the agent that made bread fluffy. Now they use bromine,which is very harmful to us.
I wonder if it is the DHEA not the iodine that gave you side effects. Really the only side effects that could happen with too much iodine is hyperthyroid symptoms, them one could simply cut back.
For improving my thyroid the only thing that worked was T3 therapy. I take the iodine to relieve pain in my breast and to prevent breast cancer. It was certainly not enough to fix the hypothyroidism. As my temperature is comming up I can sleep again. Life is very rough for me when my thyroid is not functioning well. My naturopath is treating me for wilsons syndrome with the T3 and it is the only thing that has helped my thyroid. Trust me I have tried EVERYTHING else!
Hope this helps.
Prescription Medications
Posted by Jhopkins (Chapel Hill, Tn) on 02/08/2010
First research adrenal fatigue. Seems that adrenal is the primary cause of hypothyroidism (among other issues). If you start to treat your adrenals (primarily with eating foods to nurture it and supplements as well), then you will see improvement in your thyroid. Heart palpitations in my experience never seemed to have lasted long. That is a little concerning that you are having heart palpiations for so long. Ask your doctor to back off a level as your issue is really concerning you. or ask for a different brand. From what I understand Kelp and VCO are good places to start, but it gets confusing to me. Should I first look into healing the adrenals and then look into the thyroid...or does it all just fall in place?
Prescription Medications
Posted by Margaret (Carrot Creek, Alta) on 02/07/2010
Hypothyroid
I have been on Eltroxin for thyroid for a few years. Lately my heart started palpitations. Had a blood test done. It came back that my thyroid was underactive again. Dr. increases my meds from 50 to 100. Had another test done in two weeks and it came back normal. But I still have heart palpitations. How long does it take for the meds to settle my heart. Do you think I should try some virgin coconut oil or kelp supplements? Or would this give me more palpitations??
Iodine, Selenium
Posted by Beth (Chicago, Il, Usa) on 01/21/2010
Hi Julie!
The patch test is an easy way to see if you are deficient in iodine. Get a bottle of tincture of iodine. Paint a 2 inch square on an inconspicuous place on your body (arch of your foot, inside of your arm or thigh, stomach, etc) before you go to bed. If it's gone in the morning, you are iodine deficient. In someone who has enough iodine in their system it should disappear in about 24 hours.
Another thing I wanted to add is that my sugar cravings are gone. It's bizarre! Really, if I woke up and started speaking Sanskrit I would be less surprised! I've always struggled with my weight because I was always craving things, always thinking about food. A while back I was counting my calories trying to lose weight (again!). Once I started with the iodine, I stopped counting calories, because I just didn't need to. I could suddenly go without snacking between meals. I am losing weight with a reduction in my calories, but it's not a struggle or an effort as it has been in the past.
I saw this on another board about iodine and it's true for me as well- I am finally eating to live instead of living to eat.
Best of luck to you!
Iodine, Selenium
Posted by Julie (Chapel Hill, Tn) on 01/20/2010
What is a patch test? i am using coconut oil for my hypo, and seeing great results, but i do wonder if what you are talking about would help as well.
Iodine, Selenium
Posted by Beth (Chicago, Il, Usa) on 01/19/2010
★★★★★
For years I have suspected that I was hypothyroid. Since my TSH was normal, my doctor saw no reason to do the T3/T4 test despite my having classic hypothyroid symptoms. It seemed like my symptoms were getting worse, so I decided take things into my own hands and started researching natural therapies for hypothyroidism. All my research led me to iodine and I started taking one 12.5 mg of iodine/iodide pill a day. I also started on a 200 mcg of selenium, as well. What I had read was that the two need each other to properly function.
The change in my life has been incredible. The first change was my energy. I felt completely recharged! I also felt motivated! Like I actually WANTED to get things done. Mentally I felt so much clearer. I have struggled on and off with depression since I was 13 years old and for the first time in my life I felt consistently stable. I researched this further because it was completely astounding to me. There is a known link between low thyroid function and bipolar disorder! In fact, if anti-depressants stop working or aren't as effective in some people, doctors prescribe them a medication that enhances their T3 and- viola! -their medication starts working again!
The next thing I noticed was that my knees were no longer hurting. They had been fairly sore for at least a month and the just stopped hurting completely.
The list goes on and on. The hypothyroid night sweats are gone (I would wake up at least 4-5 times each week with my pajamas, hair and sheets drenched), I am sleeping decently, my acne cleared up, the puffiness in my eyelids is gone, and on and on....
One thing that still just blows me away is that my feet are smooth. For as long as I can remember, my feet have been dry and cracked and the skin was so thick. To get my feet in shape for sandals in warm weather took a ton of effort. I just figured that's how my feet were. Within just a couple of days, I started noticing my feet were not as rough. After a week, they were like I had received an incredibly expensive pedicure minus the nail polish. To get results like this, normally I would have to soak, scrub, moisturize repeatedly and maybe after a week they would look half this good.
The whole thing is shocking and amazing to me. It has helped me beyond anything I could have imagined. I figured so many of my issues were things I had to live with and never dreamed they could even be treated. I wonder how many people are walking around with low functioning thyroids and don't even know it?
Don't take my word for it. Do the research for yourself, there are tons of well-documented studies online. Do a patch test. If you are deficient, try it for yourself and get your life back!
Prescription Medications
Posted by Sara (The Beach, Canada) on 01/11/2010
i take both ACV or Turmeric while on Synthroid. my levels continue to test fine and i have been on this regimine for two years. hope this helps.
Prescription Medications
Posted by Linda (York County, Maine) on 01/11/2010
Hi Sharon, I had my thyroid "fried" several years ago, started w/Synthroid, now take 200 mcg of Levothyroxine. I don't ingest ACV consistently. When I did take it for a period of time, I saw no effect toward my med....I took it in the evening so as not to disturb the absorption - you know how you should avoid dairy for so many hours within taking the med, etc. - I haven't found that any supplement I've ingested has affected the med, actually, and I've dabbled with St. John's Wort, Maca, Cellfood and have just started with 15 drops of 3% hydrogen peroxide in 6 ounces of water. I take colloidal silver on occasion or echinacea to ward off a cold; sometimes ingest a sublingual B complex which seems to help when the corners of my mouth are dry and cracked....listen to your body and just stop if it feels wrong. Good Luck to You!
Prescription Medications
Posted by Sharon (Springfield, Ma) on 01/11/2010
Taking supplements while on Synthroid
Hi, I am wondering if anybody has info on any issues of taking ACV or Turmeric while on Synthroid. I had my thyroid removed last year and wonder if it is OK to take these remedies or will it interfere with the meds.
Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Robert (Martinez, Ca) on 01/06/2010
Response to old post from Sangeetha, Grand Cayman of 5-19-09 regarding B-12 absorption: B-12 is best absorbed directly into the blood via injection or sublingual, not in the stomach. Best B-12 is methylcobalamin avail on the net as sublingual & dosage depends on need. Vegetarians need more. Most of the B vitamin complex tablets on the market are petroleum based & not good for DNA over long term use. Dr Bob Marshall has researched this. Also regarding oils, please read Dr Russell Blaylock nutrition book. He is a neurosurgeon of 35 yrs. & states most all oils are excitotoxic to the brain. Best to use olive, coconut,or peanut oils. He does not recommend any others. Dr David Brownstein has researched iodine for over 20 yrs & recommends Iodoral. His books are very cheap on the net & see also his book on salt. He also has videos free on the net. Please note that the thyroid & hormone tests that are prescribed by 'Docs'are what they are taught in med school & are inaccurate, & it is a waste of your time to argue these points with most Docs as they are very protective of their trade. Example: you cannot test hormones via blood samples, only via saliva. Check Drs. David Zava & John Lee, pioneers in this field.Regarding coconut, I use raw extra virgin organic 'butter' which is the entire meat & oil combined. Thank you & I extend blessings to all.
