A Western and Eastern Approach to Hypothyroidism

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Good Morning!

 

A Western and Eastern Approach to Hypothyroidism

 

Primary hypothyroidism, or underactivity of the thyroid gland, may

cause a variety of symptoms and may affect all body functions. The

body's normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and physical

sluggishness. The symptoms may vary from mild to severe, with the

most severe form called myxedema, which is a medical emergency. The

secretion of T3 and T4 is controlled by the pituitary gland and the

hypothalamus. Thyroid disorders may result not only from defects in

the thyroid gland itself, but also from abnormalities of the

pituitary or hypothalamus.

 

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. Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to

stimulate the thyroid gland (secondary hypothyroidism) is a less

common cause of hypothyroidism. Other causes include congenital

defects, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, irradiation of the

gland, or inflammatory conditions.

 

A physical examination reveals delayed relaxation of muscles during

tests of reflexes. Pale, yellow skin; loss of the outer edge of the

eyebrows; thin and brittle hair; coarse facial features; brittle

nails; firm swelling of the arms and legs; and mental dullness may be

present. Vital signs may reveal slow heart rate, low blood pressure,

and low body temperature.

 

A chest X-ray may reveal an enlarged heart.

 

A complete blood count (CBC) that shows anemia.

Laboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:

· T4 test (low)

· serum TSH (high in primary hypothyroidism, low or low-normal in

secondary hypothyroidism)

Additional laboratory abnormalities may include:

· increased cholesterol levels

· increased liver enzymes

· increased serum prolactin

· low serum sodium

 

Causes

 

The most common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The thyroid is

gradually destroyed, hypothyroidism develops.

 

Subacute painless thyroiditis and subacute painful thyroiditis can

both cause transient hypothyroidism. The hypothyroidism is transient

because the thyroid is not destroyed.

 

Hypothyroidism can develop from complete lack of thyroid hormone

production because of radioactive iodine or surgical removal of the

thyroid gland, both of which are used to treat hyperthyroidism and

thyroid cancer.

 

Some causes of hypothyroidism include some inherited disorders in

which an abnormality of the enzymes in thyroid cells prevents the

gland from making or secreting enough thyroid hormones. In other rare

disorders, either the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland fails to

secrete enough thyroid-stimulating hormone, which is necessary for

normal stimulation of the thyroid.

 

Symptoms

Insufficient thyroid hormone causes body functions to slow. Symptoms

are subtle and develop gradually. They may be mistaken for

depression, especially among older people. Facial expressions become

dull, the voice is hoarse and speech is slow, eyelids droop, and the

eyes and face become puffy. Many people with hypothyroidism gain

weight, become constipated, and are unable to tolerate cold. The hair

becomes sparse, coarse, and dry, and the skin becomes coarse, dry,

scaly, and thick. Some people develop carpal tunnel syndrome, which

makes the hands tingle or hurt.

 

Diagnosis

Usually hypothyroidism can be diagnosed with one simple blood test:

the measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Many experts suggest

that the test be performed at least every other year in people older

than 55, because hypothyroidism is so common among older people yet

so difficult, in its mild stages, for doctors to distinguish from

other disorders that affect people in this age group.

 

In those rare cases of hypothyroidism caused by inadequate secretion

of thyroid-stimulating hormone, a second blood test is needed to

measure the level of the thyroid hormone T4 that is not bound by

protein (free). A low level confirms the diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

A total T4 and/or Free T4, and a Total T3 and/or Free T3 should be

run in addition to a TSH. (Many doctors use the T3 uptake test, but

it is not a direct test of T3 levels, and can be influenced by other

hormones. The T7 test or Free T4 Index is a " calculated " test and of

little value.) Then get the actual value of your blood tests and

compare them with the lab reference ranges. The lab reference ranges

are very wide, and you might not feel well with " low normal " results.

Some doctors realize this, and you might be able to talk him/her into

a trial of thyroid hormone with low normal lab values. Often, thyroid

antibodies tests and TRH stimulation test are abnormal even when

blood tests are within reference ranges.

A TRH stimulation test measures one form of secondary hypothyroidism,

originating in the pituitary gland.

 

 

Treatment

Treatment involves replacing thyroid hormone using one of several

oral preparations. The preferred form of hormone replacement is

synthetic T4. Another form, desiccated (dried) thyroid, is obtained

from the thyroid glands of animals. In general, desiccated thyroid is

less satisfactory than synthetic T4 because the content of thyroid

hormones in the tablets may vary. In emergencies, such as myxedema

coma, doctors may give synthetic T4, T3, or both intravenously.

Treatment begins with small doses of thyroid hormone, because too

large a dose can cause serious side effects, although large doses may

be necessary. The starting dose and the rate of increase are

especially small in older people, who are often most at risk of side

effects. The dose is gradually increased until the levels of thyroid-

stimulating hormone in the person's blood return to normal.

 

 

Hypothyroidism:

 

Homeopathy

 

Argentum nitricum is an excellent homeopathic remedy for people who

are extremely anxious. They are usually open, outgoing, talkative,

and very likeable. They sometimes have so much mental energy pouring

out that they find it difficult to not say too much. They often have

a very strong desire for sweets and can have a terrible aggravation

after ingesting them. They can have considerable anticipatory

anxiety, fears about their health, and often extreme claustrophobia,

fear of elevators, bridges, high places, and corners.

 

 

Vitamin/Supplement Therapy

 

The first way to combat low thyroid hormones is by avoiding

goitrogenic foods like soybeans, peanuts, millet, turnips, cabbage

and mustard. These foods block the thyroid from using iodine, an

element vital for thyroid hormone production.

 

Kelp, for the mineral content, is very beneficial, especially the

iodine, and tyrosine, since T3 and T4 both are made from tyrosine.

Everyone should take a basic multivitamin, including C, E, Vitamin D,

Zinc, all the B vitamins and beta-carotene for Vitamin A. Balanced

minerals are crucial for proper function of the whole body and are

also central to thyroid hormone synthesis.

 

The supplement most commonly recommended, Synthroid, contains one

form of thyroid hormone.

 

There is another product, Thyrolar, which provides both T3 and T4

hormones. Once the body begins to get normal amounts of these

hormones, symptoms will disappear. After that, periodic blood tests

should be done to determine if the dosage is correct.

 

Fulvic Acid (not to be confused with folic acid - B vitamin) can

prevent and treat thyroid disease including hypothyroidism;

hyperthyroidism, Graves Diesease and Wilson's Syndrome, plus many

other conditions. Outpatient medical hospital studies on overactive

thyroid had a 90.9% cure rate within a six month period when patients

were treated with fulvic acid medication (Yan, Shenyan; Tongren

Hospital, Beijing: Fulvic Acid, 4 (1988).

 

Thyroid malfunction, both overactive and underactive, is generally

due to autoimmune response by the body generally caused by a build up

of dangerous toxins, chlorinated substances, viruses, pathogens,

infections, pesticides, altered enzymes or hormones in the tissues of

the thyroid gland.

 

 

Stress Relief:

 

Journaling can be a wonderful release as well as reflection on the

events and moments in our lives. I have found it to be great therapy

and can lend itself to great expression without reservation. I

suggested the patient start writing in a journal. This took him 4

weeks to buy and another three weeks to finally write in it.

 

Exercise: Regular exercise helps your body lower blood sugars,

promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness.

 

Meditation and visualization techniques are very helpful in order to

see the big picture, work on reducing stress levels and calming the

mind.

 

 

 

Traditional

 

Hypothyroidism

 

Etiology

A chronic lack of iodine in the diet is the most common cause of

hypothyroidism in many developing countries. This is less evident in

the United States because iodine is added to table salt; iodine is

also present in dairy products. Some causes of hypothyroidism include

some inherited disorders or Kidney Jing deficiency in which essence

from both parents is not strong during conception. Other patterns

include Qi Stagnation which leads to Blood Stasis, Blood Deficiency

or Phlegm patterns.

 

TCM Patterns

 

Kidney Jing Deficiency

 

Slow mental/physical development in children, late/incomplete

fontanel closure in infants, poor skeletal development, brittle

bones, soreness and weakness of the lumbar region and knees, mental

retardation, poor memory, premature aging and senility, dizziness,

deafness, tinnitus, low sex drive, infertility, premature graying and

hair loss. Tongue varies (Deficient Yin or Yang) Usually Yin is more

Deficiency, and red, peeled tongue is more evident.

 

Treatment principle: Tonify kd jing and essence.

 

Acupuncture treatment

Points: Kd 3, 6, Ren 3,4 ,7, Ub 23, Sp 6, Ht 6

 

Formula: Zuo Gui Yin

 

 

Qi Stagnation

distention, distending pain that moves from place to place,

hypochondrium pain, epigastric pain, throat, abdomen discomfort,

abdominal masses that appear and disappear, mental depression,

irritability, frequent mood swings, frequent sighing, high stress

levels and emotional issues. The pulse is thready, slow and short,

entering and exiting with difficulty, knotted rapid with irregular

beats. Tongue: can be normal with thin white coat or slightly purple.

Treatment principle: tonify Qi

 

Acupuncture treatment

 

Points: Ren 2,3,4, 6, 17, Lv 2, 3, 13, 14, LI 4

 

Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San

 

 

Blood Stasis

Abdominal pain (fixed) with hardenings, hypochondriac pain (sharp,

stabbing), irritable, indigestion, constipation. Pulse: wiry/taut and

hesitant; Tongue: purple with spots on the side.

Treatment principle: move blood

 

Acupuncture treatment

Points: SP 10, Ub 17, Ren 17, Lv 3, LI 4

 

Formula: Tao He Cheng Qi Tang

 

 

Blood Deficiency

Pale complexion, pale lips, thin skin, dry, pale cracked skin,

palpitations and irritability, insomnia, poor memory, sensation in

the chest, hiccups, sudden loss of voice, convulsions, frequent

sorrow without any obvious causes, abnormal joy or rage, unreasonable

suspicion or fear, thin white tongue or dry coating, wiry and thin

pulse.

 

Treatment principle: tonify blood

 

Acupuncture treatment

Points: Sp 6, 8, 10, UB 17, ST 36, Ren 6

 

Formula: Si Wu Tang

 

Phlegm

Phlegm mainly arises from Spleen Deficiency as it fails to transform

and transport body fluid. Lung and Kidney can also be involved if

Lungs fail to disperse and lower fluids and if the Kidneys fail to

transform and excrete fluids, they can then accumulate into Phlegm.

There are 2 types: substantial, which can be seen (phlegm), and non-

substantial, which can't be seen (rheum). Excessive consumption of

greasy foods and/or cold and raw foods can contribute to this

condition.

 

Treatment principle: clear and resolve phlegm

 

Acupuncture treatment

 

Points: Ren 22, ST 40, LI 4

 

Formula: Ba Xin Tang

 

 

RESEARCH

 

Acupuncture & Hypothyroidism

 

Acupuncture has traditionally been successfully employed in China to

treat most illnesses and there is little doubt that acupuncture is an

excellent therapy for people suffering with this condition. There are

several studies suggesting that acupuncture and Traditional Chinese

Medicine can be very helpful in the treatment of Hypothyroidism. For

instance, in a study at the Shanghai Medical University in China, 32

patients with hypothyroidism were treated over a period of one year

with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the kidney meridian

(energy channel). The results were compared with a control group of

34 people. At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of

hypothyroidism were reported to be markedly improved confirming

that " Hypothyroidism is closely related to deficiency of kidney

energy " . (1)

 

(1) Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha LL,

Inst. of the Integr. of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195,

 

 

Traditional & Hypothyroidism

 

Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine has been shown to offer an

effective alternative treatment for people suffering from

hypothyroidism (an under-functioning thyroid gland). In a study at

the Shanghai Medical University in China, 66 patients with

hypothyroidism were monitored over a period of one year. 32 patients

were treated with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the

kidney meridian (energy channel) and their results were compared with

a control group made up of the other 34 patients.

At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism were

reported to be " markedly improved " in the TCM group confirming that

Traditional Chinese Herbal medicine can offer real help in its

treatment and suggesting that " hypothyroidism is closely related to

deficiency of kidney energy " .

 

Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha LL,

Inst. of the Integr. Of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195

 

 

REFERENCES

 

1. Kuang Ankun, Din Tin, et al., Clinical observation of hypo- and

hyper-thyroidism treated with traditional Chinese medicine and

changes of plasma cyclonucleotides, Journal of Traditional Chinese

Medicine 1980, 21 (11).

 

2. Li Changdu and Li Peili, Treatment of hypothyroidism with Chinese

herbs, Journal of Guiyang Traditional College 1990,

1.

 

3. Kuang An-kun, et al., The relationship between the therapeutic

effect of TCM on primary hypothyroidism and nuclear T3 receptors in

lymphocytes, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western

Medicine 1988, 8(11).

 

4. Chen MD, et al., Influence of Yang-restoring herb medicines upon

metabolism of thyroid hormone in normal rats and a drug

administration schedule, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional

and Western Medicine, 9(2), 1989.

 

5. Golden, R, Clinical experience at Guangzhou Hospital for

Traditional , Journal of the American College of

Traditional . 1989, 7(1-2).

6. Guo Xiaozong, et al., Acupuncture treatment of benign thyroid

nodules: clinical observation of 65 cases, Journal of Traditional

[English] 1984, 4(4).

 

7. McCarty, M.F. Chromium and other insulin sensitizers may enhance

glucagon secretion: implications for hypoglycemia and weight control.

Med. Hypotheses 1996; 46(2): 77-80.

 

8. Mithieux, G. New data and concepts on glutamine and glucose

metabolism in the gut. Curr. Opin. Clin. Nutr. Metab. Care 2001 Jul; 4

(4): 267-71.

 

9. Croset, M., Rajas, F., Zitoun, C., Hurot, J.M., Montano, S.,

Mithieux, G. Rat small intestine is an insulin-sensitive

gluconeogenic organ. Diabetes 2001 Apr; 50(4): 740-6.

 

10. Geng, M.-Y. et al. Protective effects of pyridoxal phosphate

against glucose deprivation-induced damage in cultured hippocampal

neurons. J. Neurochem. 1997; 68(6): 2500-6.

 

11. Pearson, D., Shaw, S. Preventing hypoglycemia. Anti-Aging News

1982 Jan; 2(1): 6-7.

12. Ryder, J.W., Portocarrero, C.P., Song, X.M., Cui, L., Yu, M.,

Combatsiaris, T., Galuska, D., Bauman, D.E., Barbano, D.M., Charron,

M.J., Zierath, J.R., Houseknecht, K.L.

 

13. Isomer-specific antidiabetic properties of conjugated linoleic

acid. Improved glucose tolerance, skeletal muscle insulin action, and

UCP-2 gene expression. Diabetes 2001 May; 50(5): 1149-57.

 

14. Houseknecht, K.L., Vanden Heuvel, J.P., Moya-Camarena, S.Y.,

Portocarrero, C.P., Peck, L.W., Nickel, K.P., Belury, M.A. Dietary

conjugated linoleic acid normalizes impaired glucose tolerance in the

Zucker diabetic fatty fa/fa rat. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 1998

Jun 29; 247(3): 911.

 

 

15. Stumvoll, M., Perriello, G., Meyer, C., Gerich, J. Role of

glutamine in human carbohydrate metabolism in kidney and other

tissues. Kidney Int. 1999 Mar; 55(3): 778-92.

 

16. Utiger RD (2001). Hypothyroidism section of The thyroid:

Physiology, thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, and the painful thyroid

chapter. In P Felig, L Frohman, eds., Endocrinology and Metabolism,

4th ed., pp.315–329. New York: McGraw-Hill.

 

17. Larsen PR, et al. (1998). The thyroid gland. In JD Wilson et al.,

eds., Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 9th ed., pp. 389–515.

Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders.

Utiger RD (1999). Maternal hypothyroidism and fetal development. New

England Journal of Medicine, 341(8): 601–602

 

18. Hershman JM, Singh N (2002). Hypothyroidism. In RE Rakel, DT

Bope, eds., Conn's Current Therapy, pp. 646–648. Philadelphia: W.B.

Saunders.

 

19. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

(2001). Thyroid disease in pregnancy (2001). ACOG Practice Bulletin

No. 32, 98(5): 879–888.

 

20. Ladenson PW, et al. (2000). American Thyroid Association

guidelines for detection of thyroid dysfunction. Archives of Internal

Medicine, 160: 1573–1575.

 

21. Singh N, et al. (2000). Effects of calcium carbonate on the

absorption of levothyroxine. JAMA, 283(21): 2822–2825.

 

 

 

Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

Peacefulmind.com

ProAcuMed.com

Therapies for healing

mind, body, spirit

[Guest guest]

definitely,glad you got it off of your chest,chinese or not,thats heavy

 

On 10/15/07, yogiguruji <yogiguruji wrote:

>

> Good Morning!

>

> A Western and Eastern Approach to Hypothyroidism

>

> Primary hypothyroidism, or underactivity of the thyroid gland, may

> cause a variety of symptoms and may affect all body functions. The

> body's normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and physical

> sluggishness. The symptoms may vary from mild to severe, with the

> most severe form called myxedema, which is a medical emergency. The

> secretion of T3 and T4 is controlled by the pituitary gland and the

> hypothalamus. Thyroid disorders may result not only from defects in

> the thyroid gland itself, but also from abnormalities of the

> pituitary or hypothalamus.

>

> 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. Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to

> stimulate the thyroid gland (secondary hypothyroidism) is a less

> common cause of hypothyroidism. Other causes include congenital

> defects, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, irradiation of the

> gland, or inflammatory conditions.

>

> A physical examination reveals delayed relaxation of muscles during

> tests of reflexes. Pale, yellow skin; loss of the outer edge of the

> eyebrows; thin and brittle hair; coarse facial features; brittle

> nails; firm swelling of the arms and legs; and mental dullness may be

> present. Vital signs may reveal slow heart rate, low blood pressure,

> and low body temperature.

>

> A chest X-ray may reveal an enlarged heart.

>

> A complete blood count (CBC) that shows anemia.

> Laboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:

> · T4 test (low)

> · serum TSH (high in primary hypothyroidism, low or low-normal in

> secondary hypothyroidism)

> Additional laboratory abnormalities may include:

> · increased cholesterol levels

> · increased liver enzymes

> · increased serum prolactin

> · low serum sodium

>

> Causes

>

> The most common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The thyroid is

> gradually destroyed, hypothyroidism develops.

>

> Subacute painless thyroiditis and subacute painful thyroiditis can

> both cause transient hypothyroidism. The hypothyroidism is transient

> because the thyroid is not destroyed.

>

> Hypothyroidism can develop from complete lack of thyroid hormone

> production because of radioactive iodine or surgical removal of the

> thyroid gland, both of which are used to treat hyperthyroidism and

> thyroid cancer.

>

> Some causes of hypothyroidism include some inherited disorders in

> which an abnormality of the enzymes in thyroid cells prevents the

> gland from making or secreting enough thyroid hormones. In other rare

> disorders, either the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland fails to

> secrete enough thyroid-stimulating hormone, which is necessary for

> normal stimulation of the thyroid.

>

> Symptoms

> Insufficient thyroid hormone causes body functions to slow. Symptoms

> are subtle and develop gradually. They may be mistaken for

> depression, especially among older people. Facial expressions become

> dull, the voice is hoarse and speech is slow, eyelids droop, and the

> eyes and face become puffy. Many people with hypothyroidism gain

> weight, become constipated, and are unable to tolerate cold. The hair

> becomes sparse, coarse, and dry, and the skin becomes coarse, dry,

> scaly, and thick. Some people develop carpal tunnel syndrome, which

> makes the hands tingle or hurt.

>

> Diagnosis

> Usually hypothyroidism can be diagnosed with one simple blood test:

> the measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Many experts suggest

> that the test be performed at least every other year in people older

> than 55, because hypothyroidism is so common among older people yet

> so difficult, in its mild stages, for doctors to distinguish from

> other disorders that affect people in this age group.

>

> In those rare cases of hypothyroidism caused by inadequate secretion

> of thyroid-stimulating hormone, a second blood test is needed to

> measure the level of the thyroid hormone T4 that is not bound by

> protein (free). A low level confirms the diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

> A total T4 and/or Free T4, and a Total T3 and/or Free T3 should be

> run in addition to a TSH. (Many doctors use the T3 uptake test, but

> it is not a direct test of T3 levels, and can be influenced by other

> hormones. The T7 test or Free T4 Index is a " calculated " test and of

> little value.) Then get the actual value of your blood tests and

> compare them with the lab reference ranges. The lab reference ranges

> are very wide, and you might not feel well with " low normal " results.

> Some doctors realize this, and you might be able to talk him/her into

> a trial of thyroid hormone with low normal lab values. Often, thyroid

> antibodies tests and TRH stimulation test are abnormal even when

> blood tests are within reference ranges.

> A TRH stimulation test measures one form of secondary hypothyroidism,

> originating in the pituitary gland.

>

>

> Treatment

> Treatment involves replacing thyroid hormone using one of several

> oral preparations. The preferred form of hormone replacement is

> synthetic T4. Another form, desiccated (dried) thyroid, is obtained

> from the thyroid glands of animals. In general, desiccated thyroid is

> less satisfactory than synthetic T4 because the content of thyroid

> hormones in the tablets may vary. In emergencies, such as myxedema

> coma, doctors may give synthetic T4, T3, or both intravenously.

> Treatment begins with small doses of thyroid hormone, because too

> large a dose can cause serious side effects, although large doses may

> be necessary. The starting dose and the rate of increase are

> especially small in older people, who are often most at risk of side

> effects. The dose is gradually increased until the levels of thyroid-

> stimulating hormone in the person's blood return to normal.

>

>

> Hypothyroidism:

>

> Homeopathy

>

> Argentum nitricum is an excellent homeopathic remedy for people who

> are extremely anxious. They are usually open, outgoing, talkative,

> and very likeable. They sometimes have so much mental energy pouring

> out that they find it difficult to not say too much. They often have

> a very strong desire for sweets and can have a terrible aggravation

> after ingesting them. They can have considerable anticipatory

> anxiety, fears about their health, and often extreme claustrophobia,

> fear of elevators, bridges, high places, and corners.

>

>

> Vitamin/Supplement Therapy

>

> The first way to combat low thyroid hormones is by avoiding

> goitrogenic foods like soybeans, peanuts, millet, turnips, cabbage

> and mustard. These foods block the thyroid from using iodine, an

> element vital for thyroid hormone production.

>

> Kelp, for the mineral content, is very beneficial, especially the

> iodine, and tyrosine, since T3 and T4 both are made from tyrosine.

> Everyone should take a basic multivitamin, including C, E, Vitamin D,

> Zinc, all the B vitamins and beta-carotene for Vitamin A. Balanced

> minerals are crucial for proper function of the whole body and are

> also central to thyroid hormone synthesis.

>

> The supplement most commonly recommended, Synthroid, contains one

> form of thyroid hormone.

>

> There is another product, Thyrolar, which provides both T3 and T4

> hormones. Once the body begins to get normal amounts of these

> hormones, symptoms will disappear. After that, periodic blood tests

> should be done to determine if the dosage is correct.

>

> Fulvic Acid (not to be confused with folic acid - B vitamin) can

> prevent and treat thyroid disease including hypothyroidism;

> hyperthyroidism, Graves Diesease and Wilson's Syndrome, plus many

> other conditions. Outpatient medical hospital studies on overactive

> thyroid had a 90.9% cure rate within a six month period when patients

> were treated with fulvic acid medication (Yan, Shenyan; Tongren

> Hospital, Beijing: Fulvic Acid, 4 (1988).

>

> Thyroid malfunction, both overactive and underactive, is generally

> due to autoimmune response by the body generally caused by a build up

> of dangerous toxins, chlorinated substances, viruses, pathogens,

> infections, pesticides, altered enzymes or hormones in the tissues of

> the thyroid gland.

>

>

> Stress Relief:

>

> Journaling can be a wonderful release as well as reflection on the

> events and moments in our lives. I have found it to be great therapy

> and can lend itself to great expression without reservation. I

> suggested the patient start writing in a journal. This took him 4

> weeks to buy and another three weeks to finally write in it.

>

> Exercise: Regular exercise helps your body lower blood sugars,

> promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness.

>

> Meditation and visualization techniques are very helpful in order to

> see the big picture, work on reducing stress levels and calming the

> mind.

>

>

>

> Traditional

>

> Hypothyroidism

>

> Etiology

> A chronic lack of iodine in the diet is the most common cause of

> hypothyroidism in many developing countries. This is less evident in

> the United States because iodine is added to table salt; iodine is

> also present in dairy products. Some causes of hypothyroidism include

> some inherited disorders or Kidney Jing deficiency in which essence

> from both parents is not strong during conception. Other patterns

> include Qi Stagnation which leads to Blood Stasis, Blood Deficiency

> or Phlegm patterns.

>

> TCM Patterns

>

> Kidney Jing Deficiency

>

> Slow mental/physical development in children, late/incomplete

> fontanel closure in infants, poor skeletal development, brittle

> bones, soreness and weakness of the lumbar region and knees, mental

> retardation, poor memory, premature aging and senility, dizziness,

> deafness, tinnitus, low sex drive, infertility, premature graying and

> hair loss. Tongue varies (Deficient Yin or Yang) Usually Yin is more

> Deficiency, and red, peeled tongue is more evident.

>

> Treatment principle: Tonify kd jing and essence.

>

> Acupuncture treatment

> Points: Kd 3, 6, Ren 3,4 ,7, Ub 23, Sp 6, Ht 6

>

> Formula: Zuo Gui Yin

>

>

> Qi Stagnation

> distention, distending pain that moves from place to place,

> hypochondrium pain, epigastric pain, throat, abdomen discomfort,

> abdominal masses that appear and disappear, mental depression,

> irritability, frequent mood swings, frequent sighing, high stress

> levels and emotional issues. The pulse is thready, slow and short,

> entering and exiting with difficulty, knotted rapid with irregular

> beats. Tongue: can be normal with thin white coat or slightly purple.

> Treatment principle: tonify Qi

>

> Acupuncture treatment

>

> Points: Ren 2,3,4, 6, 17, Lv 2, 3, 13, 14, LI 4

>

> Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San

>

>

> Blood Stasis

> Abdominal pain (fixed) with hardenings, hypochondriac pain (sharp,

> stabbing), irritable, indigestion, constipation. Pulse: wiry/taut and

> hesitant; Tongue: purple with spots on the side.

> Treatment principle: move blood

>

> Acupuncture treatment

> Points: SP 10, Ub 17, Ren 17, Lv 3, LI 4

>

> Formula: Tao He Cheng Qi Tang

>

>

> Blood Deficiency

> Pale complexion, pale lips, thin skin, dry, pale cracked skin,

> palpitations and irritability, insomnia, poor memory, sensation in

> the chest, hiccups, sudden loss of voice, convulsions, frequent

> sorrow without any obvious causes, abnormal joy or rage, unreasonable

> suspicion or fear, thin white tongue or dry coating, wiry and thin

> pulse.

>

> Treatment principle: tonify blood

>

> Acupuncture treatment

> Points: Sp 6, 8, 10, UB 17, ST 36, Ren 6

>

> Formula: Si Wu Tang

>

> Phlegm

> Phlegm mainly arises from Spleen Deficiency as it fails to transform

> and transport body fluid. Lung and Kidney can also be involved if

> Lungs fail to disperse and lower fluids and if the Kidneys fail to

> transform and excrete fluids, they can then accumulate into Phlegm.

> There are 2 types: substantial, which can be seen (phlegm), and non-

> substantial, which can't be seen (rheum). Excessive consumption of

> greasy foods and/or cold and raw foods can contribute to this

> condition.

>

> Treatment principle: clear and resolve phlegm

>

> Acupuncture treatment

>

> Points: Ren 22, ST 40, LI 4

>

> Formula: Ba Xin Tang

>

>

> RESEARCH

>

> Acupuncture & Hypothyroidism

>

> Acupuncture has traditionally been successfully employed in China to

> treat most illnesses and there is little doubt that acupuncture is an

> excellent therapy for people suffering with this condition. There are

> several studies suggesting that acupuncture and Traditional Chinese

> Medicine can be very helpful in the treatment of Hypothyroidism. For

> instance, in a study at the Shanghai Medical University in China, 32

> patients with hypothyroidism were treated over a period of one year

> with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the kidney meridian

> (energy channel). The results were compared with a control group of

> 34 people. At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of

> hypothyroidism were reported to be markedly improved confirming

> that " Hypothyroidism is closely related to deficiency of kidney

> energy " . (1)

>

> (1) Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha LL,

> Inst. of the Integr. of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

> Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195,

>

>

> Traditional & Hypothyroidism

>

> Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine has been shown to offer an

> effective alternative treatment for people suffering from

> hypothyroidism (an under-functioning thyroid gland). In a study at

> the Shanghai Medical University in China, 66 patients with

> hypothyroidism were monitored over a period of one year. 32 patients

> were treated with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the

> kidney meridian (energy channel) and their results were compared with

> a control group made up of the other 34 patients.

> At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism were

> reported to be " markedly improved " in the TCM group confirming that

> Traditional Chinese Herbal medicine can offer real help in its

> treatment and suggesting that " hypothyroidism is closely related to

> deficiency of kidney energy " .

>

> Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha LL,

> Inst. of the Integr. Of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

> Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195

>

>

> REFERENCES

>

> 1. Kuang Ankun, Din Tin, et al., Clinical observation of hypo- and

> hyper-thyroidism treated with traditional Chinese medicine and

> changes of plasma cyclonucleotides, Journal of Traditional Chinese

> Medicine 1980, 21 (11).

>

> 2. Li Changdu and Li Peili, Treatment of hypothyroidism with Chinese

> herbs, Journal of Guiyang Traditional College 1990,

> 1.

>

> 3. Kuang An-kun, et al., The relationship between the therapeutic

> effect of TCM on primary hypothyroidism and nuclear T3 receptors in

> lymphocytes, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western

> Medicine 1988, 8(11).

>

> 4. Chen MD, et al., Influence of Yang-restoring herb medicines upon

> metabolism of thyroid hormone in normal rats and a drug

> administration schedule, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional

> and Western Medicine, 9(2), 1989.

>

> 5. Golden, R, Clinical experience at Guangzhou Hospital for

> Traditional , Journal of the American College of

> Traditional . 1989, 7(1-2).

> 6. Guo Xiaozong, et al., Acupuncture treatment of benign thyroid

> nodules: clinical observation of 65 cases, Journal of Traditional

> [English] 1984, 4(4).

>

> 7. McCarty, M.F. Chromium and other insulin sensitizers may enhance

> glucagon secretion: implications for hypoglycemia and weight control.

> Med. Hypotheses 1996; 46(2): 77-80.

>

> 8. Mithieux, G. New data and concepts on glutamine and glucose

> metabolism in the gut. Curr. Opin. Clin. Nutr. Metab. Care 2001 Jul; 4

> (4): 267-71.

>

> 9. Croset, M., Rajas, F., Zitoun, C., Hurot, J.M., Montano, S.,

> Mithieux, G. Rat small intestine is an insulin-sensitive

> gluconeogenic organ. Diabetes 2001 Apr; 50(4): 740-6.

>

> 10. Geng, M.-Y. et al. Protective effects of pyridoxal phosphate

> against glucose deprivation-induced damage in cultured hippocampal

> neurons. J. Neurochem. 1997; 68(6): 2500-6.

>

> 11. Pearson, D., Shaw, S. Preventing hypoglycemia. Anti-Aging News

> 1982 Jan; 2(1): 6-7.

> 12. Ryder, J.W., Portocarrero, C.P., Song, X.M., Cui, L., Yu, M.,

> Combatsiaris, T., Galuska, D., Bauman, D.E., Barbano, D.M., Charron,

> M.J., Zierath, J.R., Houseknecht, K.L.

>

> 13. Isomer-specific antidiabetic properties of conjugated linoleic

> acid. Improved glucose tolerance, skeletal muscle insulin action, and

> UCP-2 gene expression. Diabetes 2001 May; 50(5): 1149-57.

>

> 14. Houseknecht, K.L., Vanden Heuvel, J.P., Moya-Camarena, S.Y.,

> Portocarrero, C.P., Peck, L.W., Nickel, K.P., Belury, M.A. Dietary

> conjugated linoleic acid normalizes impaired glucose tolerance in the

> Zucker diabetic fatty fa/fa rat. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 1998

> Jun 29; 247(3): 911.

>

>

> 15. Stumvoll, M., Perriello, G., Meyer, C., Gerich, J. Role of

> glutamine in human carbohydrate metabolism in kidney and other

> tissues. Kidney Int. 1999 Mar; 55(3): 778-92.

>

> 16. Utiger RD (2001). Hypothyroidism section of The thyroid:

> Physiology, thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, and the painful thyroid

> chapter. In P Felig, L Frohman, eds., Endocrinology and Metabolism,

> 4th ed., pp.315–329. New York: McGraw-Hill.

>

> 17. Larsen PR, et al. (1998). The thyroid gland. In JD Wilson et al.,

> eds., Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 9th ed., pp. 389–515.

> Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders.

> Utiger RD (1999). Maternal hypothyroidism and fetal development. New

> England Journal of Medicine, 341(8): 601–602

>

> 18. Hershman JM, Singh N (2002). Hypothyroidism. In RE Rakel, DT

> Bope, eds., Conn's Current Therapy, pp. 646–648. Philadelphia: W.B.

> Saunders.

>

> 19. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

> (2001). Thyroid disease in pregnancy (2001). ACOG Practice Bulletin

> No. 32, 98(5): 879–888.

>

> 20. Ladenson PW, et al. (2000). American Thyroid Association

> guidelines for detection of thyroid dysfunction. Archives of Internal

> Medicine, 160: 1573–1575.

>

> 21. Singh N, et al. (2000). Effects of calcium carbonate on the

> absorption of levothyroxine. JAMA, 283(21): 2822–2825.

>

>

>

> Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

> Peacefulmind.com

> ProAcuMed.com

> Therapies for healing

> mind, body, spirit

>

>

>

>

>

> *********************************************

> Peacefulmind.com Sponsors Alternative Answers-

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[Guest guest]

Andrew,

 

Thank you so much for providing this excellent information on

Hypothyroidism. It's so common in midlife women and all too often a

standard blood draw shows thyroid function " in the normal range " ,

despite so many symptoms that suggest otherwise.

 

I'll share your great article with the women in my and am

sure the women there will be grateful.

 

Thanks again,

Michelle

http://www.HolisticMenopause.com

[Guest guest]

Thanks to all. You have given me many good ideas!

Carol

 

, " yogiguruji "

<yogiguruji wrote:

>

> Good Morning!

>

> A Western and Eastern Approach to Hypothyroidism

>

> Primary hypothyroidism, or underactivity of the thyroid gland, may

> cause a variety of symptoms and may affect all body functions. The

> body's normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and

physical

> sluggishness. The symptoms may vary from mild to severe, with the

> most severe form called myxedema, which is a medical emergency. The

> secretion of T3 and T4 is controlled by the pituitary gland and the

> hypothalamus. Thyroid disorders may result not only from defects in

> the thyroid gland itself, but also from abnormalities of the

> pituitary or hypothalamus.

>

> 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. Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to

> stimulate the thyroid gland (secondary hypothyroidism) is a less

> common cause of hypothyroidism. Other causes include congenital

> defects, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, irradiation of the

> gland, or inflammatory conditions.

>

> A physical examination reveals delayed relaxation of muscles

during

> tests of reflexes. Pale, yellow skin; loss of the outer edge of the

> eyebrows; thin and brittle hair; coarse facial features; brittle

> nails; firm swelling of the arms and legs; and mental dullness may

be

> present. Vital signs may reveal slow heart rate, low blood

pressure,

> and low body temperature.

>

> A chest X-ray may reveal an enlarged heart.

>

> A complete blood count (CBC) that shows anemia.

> Laboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:

> · T4 test (low)

> · serum TSH (high in primary hypothyroidism, low or low-normal in

> secondary hypothyroidism)

> Additional laboratory abnormalities may include:

> · increased cholesterol levels

> · increased liver enzymes

> · increased serum prolactin

> · low serum sodium

>

> Causes

>

> The most common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The thyroid is

> gradually destroyed, hypothyroidism develops.

>

> Subacute painless thyroiditis and subacute painful thyroiditis can

> both cause transient hypothyroidism. The hypothyroidism is

transient

> because the thyroid is not destroyed.

>

> Hypothyroidism can develop from complete lack of thyroid hormone

> production because of radioactive iodine or surgical removal of the

> thyroid gland, both of which are used to treat hyperthyroidism and

> thyroid cancer.

>

> Some causes of hypothyroidism include some inherited disorders in

> which an abnormality of the enzymes in thyroid cells prevents the

> gland from making or secreting enough thyroid hormones. In other

rare

> disorders, either the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland fails to

> secrete enough thyroid-stimulating hormone, which is necessary for

> normal stimulation of the thyroid.

>

> Symptoms

> Insufficient thyroid hormone causes body functions to slow.

Symptoms

> are subtle and develop gradually. They may be mistaken for

> depression, especially among older people. Facial expressions

become

> dull, the voice is hoarse and speech is slow, eyelids droop, and

the

> eyes and face become puffy. Many people with hypothyroidism gain

> weight, become constipated, and are unable to tolerate cold. The

hair

> becomes sparse, coarse, and dry, and the skin becomes coarse, dry,

> scaly, and thick. Some people develop carpal tunnel syndrome, which

> makes the hands tingle or hurt.

>

> Diagnosis

> Usually hypothyroidism can be diagnosed with one simple blood test:

> the measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Many experts

suggest

> that the test be performed at least every other year in people

older

> than 55, because hypothyroidism is so common among older people yet

> so difficult, in its mild stages, for doctors to distinguish from

> other disorders that affect people in this age group.

>

> In those rare cases of hypothyroidism caused by inadequate

secretion

> of thyroid-stimulating hormone, a second blood test is needed to

> measure the level of the thyroid hormone T4 that is not bound by

> protein (free). A low level confirms the diagnosis of

hypothyroidism.

> A total T4 and/or Free T4, and a Total T3 and/or Free T3 should be

> run in addition to a TSH. (Many doctors use the T3 uptake test, but

> it is not a direct test of T3 levels, and can be influenced by

other

> hormones. The T7 test or Free T4 Index is a " calculated " test and

of

> little value.) Then get the actual value of your blood tests and

> compare them with the lab reference ranges. The lab reference

ranges

> are very wide, and you might not feel well with " low normal "

results.

> Some doctors realize this, and you might be able to talk him/her

into

> a trial of thyroid hormone with low normal lab values. Often,

thyroid

> antibodies tests and TRH stimulation test are abnormal even when

> blood tests are within reference ranges.

> A TRH stimulation test measures one form of secondary

hypothyroidism,

> originating in the pituitary gland.

>

>

> Treatment

> Treatment involves replacing thyroid hormone using one of several

> oral preparations. The preferred form of hormone replacement is

> synthetic T4. Another form, desiccated (dried) thyroid, is obtained

> from the thyroid glands of animals. In general, desiccated thyroid

is

> less satisfactory than synthetic T4 because the content of thyroid

> hormones in the tablets may vary. In emergencies, such as myxedema

> coma, doctors may give synthetic T4, T3, or both intravenously.

> Treatment begins with small doses of thyroid hormone, because too

> large a dose can cause serious side effects, although large doses

may

> be necessary. The starting dose and the rate of increase are

> especially small in older people, who are often most at risk of

side

> effects. The dose is gradually increased until the levels of

thyroid-

> stimulating hormone in the person's blood return to normal.

>

>

> Hypothyroidism:

>

> Homeopathy

>

> Argentum nitricum is an excellent homeopathic remedy for people

who

> are extremely anxious. They are usually open, outgoing, talkative,

> and very likeable. They sometimes have so much mental energy

pouring

> out that they find it difficult to not say too much. They often

have

> a very strong desire for sweets and can have a terrible aggravation

> after ingesting them. They can have considerable anticipatory

> anxiety, fears about their health, and often extreme

claustrophobia,

> fear of elevators, bridges, high places, and corners.

>

>

> Vitamin/Supplement Therapy

>

> The first way to combat low thyroid hormones is by avoiding

> goitrogenic foods like soybeans, peanuts, millet, turnips, cabbage

> and mustard. These foods block the thyroid from using iodine, an

> element vital for thyroid hormone production.

>

> Kelp, for the mineral content, is very beneficial, especially the

> iodine, and tyrosine, since T3 and T4 both are made from tyrosine.

> Everyone should take a basic multivitamin, including C, E, Vitamin

D,

> Zinc, all the B vitamins and beta-carotene for Vitamin A. Balanced

> minerals are crucial for proper function of the whole body and are

> also central to thyroid hormone synthesis.

>

> The supplement most commonly recommended, Synthroid, contains one

> form of thyroid hormone.

>

> There is another product, Thyrolar, which provides both T3 and T4

> hormones. Once the body begins to get normal amounts of these

> hormones, symptoms will disappear. After that, periodic blood tests

> should be done to determine if the dosage is correct.

>

> Fulvic Acid (not to be confused with folic acid - B vitamin) can

> prevent and treat thyroid disease including hypothyroidism;

> hyperthyroidism, Graves Diesease and Wilson's Syndrome, plus many

> other conditions. Outpatient medical hospital studies on overactive

> thyroid had a 90.9% cure rate within a six month period when

patients

> were treated with fulvic acid medication (Yan, Shenyan; Tongren

> Hospital, Beijing: Fulvic Acid, 4 (1988).

>

> Thyroid malfunction, both overactive and underactive, is generally

> due to autoimmune response by the body generally caused by a build

up

> of dangerous toxins, chlorinated substances, viruses, pathogens,

> infections, pesticides, altered enzymes or hormones in the tissues

of

> the thyroid gland.

>

>

> Stress Relief:

>

> Journaling can be a wonderful release as well as reflection on the

> events and moments in our lives. I have found it to be great

therapy

> and can lend itself to great expression without reservation. I

> suggested the patient start writing in a journal. This took him 4

> weeks to buy and another three weeks to finally write in it.

>

> Exercise: Regular exercise helps your body lower blood sugars,

> promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness.

>

> Meditation and visualization techniques are very helpful in order

to

> see the big picture, work on reducing stress levels and calming the

> mind.

>

>

>

> Traditional

>

> Hypothyroidism

>

> Etiology

> A chronic lack of iodine in the diet is the most common cause of

> hypothyroidism in many developing countries. This is less evident

in

> the United States because iodine is added to table salt; iodine is

> also present in dairy products. Some causes of hypothyroidism

include

> some inherited disorders or Kidney Jing deficiency in which essence

> from both parents is not strong during conception. Other patterns

> include Qi Stagnation which leads to Blood Stasis, Blood Deficiency

> or Phlegm patterns.

>

> TCM Patterns

>

> Kidney Jing Deficiency

>

> Slow mental/physical development in children, late/incomplete

> fontanel closure in infants, poor skeletal development, brittle

> bones, soreness and weakness of the lumbar region and knees, mental

> retardation, poor memory, premature aging and senility, dizziness,

> deafness, tinnitus, low sex drive, infertility, premature graying

and

> hair loss. Tongue varies (Deficient Yin or Yang) Usually Yin is

more

> Deficiency, and red, peeled tongue is more evident.

>

> Treatment principle: Tonify kd jing and essence.

>

> Acupuncture treatment

> Points: Kd 3, 6, Ren 3,4 ,7, Ub 23, Sp 6, Ht 6

>

> Formula: Zuo Gui Yin

>

>

> Qi Stagnation

> distention, distending pain that moves from place to place,

> hypochondrium pain, epigastric pain, throat, abdomen discomfort,

> abdominal masses that appear and disappear, mental depression,

> irritability, frequent mood swings, frequent sighing, high stress

> levels and emotional issues. The pulse is thready, slow and short,

> entering and exiting with difficulty, knotted rapid with irregular

> beats. Tongue: can be normal with thin white coat or slightly

purple.

> Treatment principle: tonify Qi

>

> Acupuncture treatment

>

> Points: Ren 2,3,4, 6, 17, Lv 2, 3, 13, 14, LI 4

>

> Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San

>

>

> Blood Stasis

> Abdominal pain (fixed) with hardenings, hypochondriac pain (sharp,

> stabbing), irritable, indigestion, constipation. Pulse: wiry/taut

and

> hesitant; Tongue: purple with spots on the side.

> Treatment principle: move blood

>

> Acupuncture treatment

> Points: SP 10, Ub 17, Ren 17, Lv 3, LI 4

>

> Formula: Tao He Cheng Qi Tang

>

>

> Blood Deficiency

> Pale complexion, pale lips, thin skin, dry, pale cracked skin,

> palpitations and irritability, insomnia, poor memory, sensation in

> the chest, hiccups, sudden loss of voice, convulsions, frequent

> sorrow without any obvious causes, abnormal joy or rage,

unreasonable

> suspicion or fear, thin white tongue or dry coating, wiry and thin

> pulse.

>

> Treatment principle: tonify blood

>

> Acupuncture treatment

> Points: Sp 6, 8, 10, UB 17, ST 36, Ren 6

>

> Formula: Si Wu Tang

>

> Phlegm

> Phlegm mainly arises from Spleen Deficiency as it fails to

transform

> and transport body fluid. Lung and Kidney can also be involved if

> Lungs fail to disperse and lower fluids and if the Kidneys fail to

> transform and excrete fluids, they can then accumulate into Phlegm.

> There are 2 types: substantial, which can be seen (phlegm), and non-

> substantial, which can't be seen (rheum). Excessive consumption of

> greasy foods and/or cold and raw foods can contribute to this

> condition.

>

> Treatment principle: clear and resolve phlegm

>

> Acupuncture treatment

>

> Points: Ren 22, ST 40, LI 4

>

> Formula: Ba Xin Tang

>

>

> RESEARCH

>

> Acupuncture & Hypothyroidism

>

> Acupuncture has traditionally been successfully employed in China

to

> treat most illnesses and there is little doubt that acupuncture is

an

> excellent therapy for people suffering with this condition. There

are

> several studies suggesting that acupuncture and Traditional Chinese

> Medicine can be very helpful in the treatment of Hypothyroidism.

For

> instance, in a study at the Shanghai Medical University in China,

32

> patients with hypothyroidism were treated over a period of one year

> with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the kidney meridian

> (energy channel). The results were compared with a control group of

> 34 people. At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of

> hypothyroidism were reported to be markedly improved confirming

> that " Hypothyroidism is closely related to deficiency of kidney

> energy " . (1)

>

> (1) Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha

LL,

> Inst. of the Integr. of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

> Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195,

>

>

> Traditional & Hypothyroidism

>

> Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine has been shown to offer an

> effective alternative treatment for people suffering from

> hypothyroidism (an under-functioning thyroid gland). In a study at

> the Shanghai Medical University in China, 66 patients with

> hypothyroidism were monitored over a period of one year. 32

patients

> were treated with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the

> kidney meridian (energy channel) and their results were compared

with

> a control group made up of the other 34 patients.

> At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism

were

> reported to be " markedly improved " in the TCM group confirming that

> Traditional Chinese Herbal medicine can offer real help in its

> treatment and suggesting that " hypothyroidism is closely related to

> deficiency of kidney energy " .

>

> Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha LL,

> Inst. of the Integr. Of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

> Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195

>

>

> REFERENCES

>

> 1. Kuang Ankun, Din Tin, et al., Clinical observation of hypo- and

> hyper-thyroidism treated with traditional Chinese medicine and

> changes of plasma cyclonucleotides, Journal of Traditional Chinese

> Medicine 1980, 21 (11).

>

> 2. Li Changdu and Li Peili, Treatment of hypothyroidism with

Chinese

> herbs, Journal of Guiyang Traditional College

1990,

> 1.

>

> 3. Kuang An-kun, et al., The relationship between the therapeutic

> effect of TCM on primary hypothyroidism and nuclear T3 receptors in

> lymphocytes, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western

> Medicine 1988, 8(11).

>

> 4. Chen MD, et al., Influence of Yang-restoring herb medicines upon

> metabolism of thyroid hormone in normal rats and a drug

> administration schedule, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional

> and Western Medicine, 9(2), 1989.

>

> 5. Golden, R, Clinical experience at Guangzhou Hospital for

> Traditional , Journal of the American College of

> Traditional . 1989, 7(1-2).

> 6. Guo Xiaozong, et al., Acupuncture treatment of benign thyroid

> nodules: clinical observation of 65 cases, Journal of Traditional

> [English] 1984, 4(4).

>

> 7. McCarty, M.F. Chromium and other insulin sensitizers may enhance

> glucagon secretion: implications for hypoglycemia and weight

control.

> Med. Hypotheses 1996; 46(2): 77-80.

>

> 8. Mithieux, G. New data and concepts on glutamine and glucose

> metabolism in the gut. Curr. Opin. Clin. Nutr. Metab. Care 2001

Jul; 4

> (4): 267-71.

>

> 9. Croset, M., Rajas, F., Zitoun, C., Hurot, J.M., Montano, S.,

> Mithieux, G. Rat small intestine is an insulin-sensitive

> gluconeogenic organ. Diabetes 2001 Apr; 50(4): 740-6.

>

> 10. Geng, M.-Y. et al. Protective effects of pyridoxal phosphate

> against glucose deprivation-induced damage in cultured hippocampal

> neurons. J. Neurochem. 1997; 68(6): 2500-6.

>

> 11. Pearson, D., Shaw, S. Preventing hypoglycemia. Anti-Aging News

> 1982 Jan; 2(1): 6-7.

> 12. Ryder, J.W., Portocarrero, C.P., Song, X.M., Cui, L., Yu, M.,

> Combatsiaris, T., Galuska, D., Bauman, D.E., Barbano, D.M.,

Charron,

> M.J., Zierath, J.R., Houseknecht, K.L.

>

> 13. Isomer-specific antidiabetic properties of conjugated linoleic

> acid. Improved glucose tolerance, skeletal muscle insulin action,

and

> UCP-2 gene expression. Diabetes 2001 May; 50(5): 1149-57.

>

> 14. Houseknecht, K.L., Vanden Heuvel, J.P., Moya-Camarena, S.Y.,

> Portocarrero, C.P., Peck, L.W., Nickel, K.P., Belury, M.A. Dietary

> conjugated linoleic acid normalizes impaired glucose tolerance in

the

> Zucker diabetic fatty fa/fa rat. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun.

1998

> Jun 29; 247(3): 911.

>

>

> 15. Stumvoll, M., Perriello, G., Meyer, C., Gerich, J. Role of

> glutamine in human carbohydrate metabolism in kidney and other

> tissues. Kidney Int. 1999 Mar; 55(3): 778-92.

>

> 16. Utiger RD (2001). Hypothyroidism section of The thyroid:

> Physiology, thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, and the painful thyroid

> chapter. In P Felig, L Frohman, eds., Endocrinology and Metabolism,

> 4th ed., pp.315–329. New York: McGraw-Hill.

>

> 17. Larsen PR, et al. (1998). The thyroid gland. In JD Wilson et

al.,

> eds., Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 9th ed., pp. 389–515.

> Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders.

> Utiger RD (1999). Maternal hypothyroidism and fetal development.

New

> England Journal of Medicine, 341(8): 601–602

>

> 18. Hershman JM, Singh N (2002). Hypothyroidism. In RE Rakel, DT

> Bope, eds., Conn's Current Therapy, pp. 646–648. Philadelphia: W.B.

> Saunders.

>

> 19. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

> (2001). Thyroid disease in pregnancy (2001). ACOG Practice Bulletin

> No. 32, 98(5): 879–888.

>

> 20. Ladenson PW, et al. (2000). American Thyroid Association

> guidelines for detection of thyroid dysfunction. Archives of

Internal

> Medicine, 160: 1573–1575.

>

> 21. Singh N, et al. (2000). Effects of calcium carbonate on the

> absorption of levothyroxine. JAMA, 283(21): 2822–2825.

>

>

>

> Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

> Peacefulmind.com

> ProAcuMed.com

> Therapies for healing

> mind, body, spirit

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you Andrew, I do appreciate your time in writing all of that. I

have suffered with this for 12 years and I am tired of it. It's nice

to know the options that are available.

Thanks!

Carol Krause

 

 

 

 

 

,

 

> On 10/15/07, yogiguruji <yogiguruji wrote:

> >

> > Good Morning!

> >

> > A Western and Eastern Approach to Hypothyroidism

> >

> > Primary hypothyroidism, or underactivity of the thyroid gland, may

> > cause a variety of symptoms and may affect all body functions. The

> > body's normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and

physical

> > sluggishness. The symptoms may vary from mild to severe, with the

> > most severe form called myxedema, which is a medical emergency.

The

> > secretion of T3 and T4 is controlled by the pituitary gland and

the

> > hypothalamus. Thyroid disorders may result not only from defects

in

> > the thyroid gland itself, but also from abnormalities of the

> > pituitary or hypothalamus.

> >

> > 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. Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to

> > stimulate the thyroid gland (secondary hypothyroidism) is a less

> > common cause of hypothyroidism. Other causes include congenital

> > defects, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, irradiation of the

> > gland, or inflammatory conditions.

> >

> > A physical examination reveals delayed relaxation of muscles

during

> > tests of reflexes. Pale, yellow skin; loss of the outer edge of

the

> > eyebrows; thin and brittle hair; coarse facial features; brittle

> > nails; firm swelling of the arms and legs; and mental dullness

may be

> > present. Vital signs may reveal slow heart rate, low blood

pressure,

> > and low body temperature.

> >

> > A chest X-ray may reveal an enlarged heart.

> >

> > A complete blood count (CBC) that shows anemia.

> > Laboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:

> > · T4 test (low)

> > · serum TSH (high in primary hypothyroidism, low or low-normal in

> > secondary hypothyroidism)

> > Additional laboratory abnormalities may include:

> > · increased cholesterol levels

> > · increased liver enzymes

> > · increased serum prolactin

> > · low serum sodium

> >

> > Causes

> >

> > The most common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The thyroid is

> > gradually destroyed, hypothyroidism develops.

> >

> > Subacute painless thyroiditis and subacute painful thyroiditis can

> > both cause transient hypothyroidism. The hypothyroidism is

transient

> > because the thyroid is not destroyed.

> >

> > Hypothyroidism can develop from complete lack of thyroid hormone

> > production because of radioactive iodine or surgical removal of

the

> > thyroid gland, both of which are used to treat hyperthyroidism and

> > thyroid cancer.

> >

> > Some causes of hypothyroidism include some inherited disorders in

> > which an abnormality of the enzymes in thyroid cells prevents the

> > gland from making or secreting enough thyroid hormones. In other

rare

> > disorders, either the hypothalamus or the pituitary gland fails to

> > secrete enough thyroid-stimulating hormone, which is necessary for

> > normal stimulation of the thyroid.

> >

> > Symptoms

> > Insufficient thyroid hormone causes body functions to slow.

Symptoms

> > are subtle and develop gradually. They may be mistaken for

> > depression, especially among older people. Facial expressions

become

> > dull, the voice is hoarse and speech is slow, eyelids droop, and

the

> > eyes and face become puffy. Many people with hypothyroidism gain

> > weight, become constipated, and are unable to tolerate cold. The

hair

> > becomes sparse, coarse, and dry, and the skin becomes coarse, dry,

> > scaly, and thick. Some people develop carpal tunnel syndrome,

which

> > makes the hands tingle or hurt.

> >

> > Diagnosis

> > Usually hypothyroidism can be diagnosed with one simple blood

test:

> > the measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone. Many experts

suggest

> > that the test be performed at least every other year in people

older

> > than 55, because hypothyroidism is so common among older people

yet

> > so difficult, in its mild stages, for doctors to distinguish from

> > other disorders that affect people in this age group.

> >

> > In those rare cases of hypothyroidism caused by inadequate

secretion

> > of thyroid-stimulating hormone, a second blood test is needed to

> > measure the level of the thyroid hormone T4 that is not bound by

> > protein (free). A low level confirms the diagnosis of

hypothyroidism.

> > A total T4 and/or Free T4, and a Total T3 and/or Free T3 should be

> > run in addition to a TSH. (Many doctors use the T3 uptake test,

but

> > it is not a direct test of T3 levels, and can be influenced by

other

> > hormones. The T7 test or Free T4 Index is a " calculated " test and

of

> > little value.) Then get the actual value of your blood tests and

> > compare them with the lab reference ranges. The lab reference

ranges

> > are very wide, and you might not feel well with " low normal "

results.

> > Some doctors realize this, and you might be able to talk him/her

into

> > a trial of thyroid hormone with low normal lab values. Often,

thyroid

> > antibodies tests and TRH stimulation test are abnormal even when

> > blood tests are within reference ranges.

> > A TRH stimulation test measures one form of secondary

hypothyroidism,

> > originating in the pituitary gland.

> >

> >

> > Treatment

> > Treatment involves replacing thyroid hormone using one of several

> > oral preparations. The preferred form of hormone replacement is

> > synthetic T4. Another form, desiccated (dried) thyroid, is

obtained

> > from the thyroid glands of animals. In general, desiccated

thyroid is

> > less satisfactory than synthetic T4 because the content of thyroid

> > hormones in the tablets may vary. In emergencies, such as myxedema

> > coma, doctors may give synthetic T4, T3, or both intravenously.

> > Treatment begins with small doses of thyroid hormone, because too

> > large a dose can cause serious side effects, although large doses

may

> > be necessary. The starting dose and the rate of increase are

> > especially small in older people, who are often most at risk of

side

> > effects. The dose is gradually increased until the levels of

thyroid-

> > stimulating hormone in the person's blood return to normal.

> >

> >

> > Hypothyroidism:

> >

> > Homeopathy

> >

> > Argentum nitricum is an excellent homeopathic remedy for people

who

> > are extremely anxious. They are usually open, outgoing, talkative,

> > and very likeable. They sometimes have so much mental energy

pouring

> > out that they find it difficult to not say too much. They often

have

> > a very strong desire for sweets and can have a terrible

aggravation

> > after ingesting them. They can have considerable anticipatory

> > anxiety, fears about their health, and often extreme

claustrophobia,

> > fear of elevators, bridges, high places, and corners.

> >

> >

> > Vitamin/Supplement Therapy

> >

> > The first way to combat low thyroid hormones is by avoiding

> > goitrogenic foods like soybeans, peanuts, millet, turnips, cabbage

> > and mustard. These foods block the thyroid from using iodine, an

> > element vital for thyroid hormone production.

> >

> > Kelp, for the mineral content, is very beneficial, especially the

> > iodine, and tyrosine, since T3 and T4 both are made from tyrosine.

> > Everyone should take a basic multivitamin, including C, E,

Vitamin D,

> > Zinc, all the B vitamins and beta-carotene for Vitamin A.

Balanced

> > minerals are crucial for proper function of the whole body and are

> > also central to thyroid hormone synthesis.

> >

> > The supplement most commonly recommended, Synthroid, contains one

> > form of thyroid hormone.

> >

> > There is another product, Thyrolar, which provides both T3 and T4

> > hormones. Once the body begins to get normal amounts of these

> > hormones, symptoms will disappear. After that, periodic blood

tests

> > should be done to determine if the dosage is correct.

> >

> > Fulvic Acid (not to be confused with folic acid - B vitamin) can

> > prevent and treat thyroid disease including hypothyroidism;

> > hyperthyroidism, Graves Diesease and Wilson's Syndrome, plus many

> > other conditions. Outpatient medical hospital studies on

overactive

> > thyroid had a 90.9% cure rate within a six month period when

patients

> > were treated with fulvic acid medication (Yan, Shenyan; Tongren

> > Hospital, Beijing: Fulvic Acid, 4 (1988).

> >

> > Thyroid malfunction, both overactive and underactive, is generally

> > due to autoimmune response by the body generally caused by a

build up

> > of dangerous toxins, chlorinated substances, viruses, pathogens,

> > infections, pesticides, altered enzymes or hormones in the

tissues of

> > the thyroid gland.

> >

> >

> > Stress Relief:

> >

> > Journaling can be a wonderful release as well as reflection on the

> > events and moments in our lives. I have found it to be great

therapy

> > and can lend itself to great expression without reservation. I

> > suggested the patient start writing in a journal. This took him 4

> > weeks to buy and another three weeks to finally write in it.

> >

> > Exercise: Regular exercise helps your body lower blood sugars,

> > promotes weight loss, reduces stress and enhances overall fitness.

> >

> > Meditation and visualization techniques are very helpful in order

to

> > see the big picture, work on reducing stress levels and calming

the

> > mind.

> >

> >

> >

> > Traditional

> >

> > Hypothyroidism

> >

> > Etiology

> > A chronic lack of iodine in the diet is the most common cause of

> > hypothyroidism in many developing countries. This is less evident

in

> > the United States because iodine is added to table salt; iodine is

> > also present in dairy products. Some causes of hypothyroidism

include

> > some inherited disorders or Kidney Jing deficiency in which

essence

> > from both parents is not strong during conception. Other patterns

> > include Qi Stagnation which leads to Blood Stasis, Blood

Deficiency

> > or Phlegm patterns.

> >

> > TCM Patterns

> >

> > Kidney Jing Deficiency

> >

> > Slow mental/physical development in children, late/incomplete

> > fontanel closure in infants, poor skeletal development, brittle

> > bones, soreness and weakness of the lumbar region and knees,

mental

> > retardation, poor memory, premature aging and senility, dizziness,

> > deafness, tinnitus, low sex drive, infertility, premature graying

and

> > hair loss. Tongue varies (Deficient Yin or Yang) Usually Yin is

more

> > Deficiency, and red, peeled tongue is more evident.

> >

> > Treatment principle: Tonify kd jing and essence.

> >

> > Acupuncture treatment

> > Points: Kd 3, 6, Ren 3,4 ,7, Ub 23, Sp 6, Ht 6

> >

> > Formula: Zuo Gui Yin

> >

> >

> > Qi Stagnation

> > distention, distending pain that moves from place to place,

> > hypochondrium pain, epigastric pain, throat, abdomen discomfort,

> > abdominal masses that appear and disappear, mental depression,

> > irritability, frequent mood swings, frequent sighing, high stress

> > levels and emotional issues. The pulse is thready, slow and

short,

> > entering and exiting with difficulty, knotted rapid with

irregular

> > beats. Tongue: can be normal with thin white coat or slightly

purple.

> > Treatment principle: tonify Qi

> >

> > Acupuncture treatment

> >

> > Points: Ren 2,3,4, 6, 17, Lv 2, 3, 13, 14, LI 4

> >

> > Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San

> >

> >

> > Blood Stasis

> > Abdominal pain (fixed) with hardenings, hypochondriac pain (sharp,

> > stabbing), irritable, indigestion, constipation. Pulse: wiry/taut

and

> > hesitant; Tongue: purple with spots on the side.

> > Treatment principle: move blood

> >

> > Acupuncture treatment

> > Points: SP 10, Ub 17, Ren 17, Lv 3, LI 4

> >

> > Formula: Tao He Cheng Qi Tang

> >

> >

> > Blood Deficiency

> > Pale complexion, pale lips, thin skin, dry, pale cracked skin,

> > palpitations and irritability, insomnia, poor memory, sensation in

> > the chest, hiccups, sudden loss of voice, convulsions, frequent

> > sorrow without any obvious causes, abnormal joy or rage,

unreasonable

> > suspicion or fear, thin white tongue or dry coating, wiry and thin

> > pulse.

> >

> > Treatment principle: tonify blood

> >

> > Acupuncture treatment

> > Points: Sp 6, 8, 10, UB 17, ST 36, Ren 6

> >

> > Formula: Si Wu Tang

> >

> > Phlegm

> > Phlegm mainly arises from Spleen Deficiency as it fails to

transform

> > and transport body fluid. Lung and Kidney can also be involved if

> > Lungs fail to disperse and lower fluids and if the Kidneys fail to

> > transform and excrete fluids, they can then accumulate into

Phlegm.

> > There are 2 types: substantial, which can be seen (phlegm), and

non-

> > substantial, which can't be seen (rheum). Excessive consumption

of

> > greasy foods and/or cold and raw foods can contribute to this

> > condition.

> >

> > Treatment principle: clear and resolve phlegm

> >

> > Acupuncture treatment

> >

> > Points: Ren 22, ST 40, LI 4

> >

> > Formula: Ba Xin Tang

> >

> >

> > RESEARCH

> >

> > Acupuncture & Hypothyroidism

> >

> > Acupuncture has traditionally been successfully employed in China

to

> > treat most illnesses and there is little doubt that acupuncture

is an

> > excellent therapy for people suffering with this condition. There

are

> > several studies suggesting that acupuncture and Traditional

Chinese

> > Medicine can be very helpful in the treatment of Hypothyroidism.

For

> > instance, in a study at the Shanghai Medical University in China,

32

> > patients with hypothyroidism were treated over a period of one

year

> > with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the kidney meridian

> > (energy channel). The results were compared with a control group

of

> > 34 people. At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of

> > hypothyroidism were reported to be markedly improved confirming

> > that " Hypothyroidism is closely related to deficiency of kidney

> > energy " . (1)

> >

> > (1) Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha

LL,

> > Inst. of the Integr. of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

> > Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195,

> >

> >

> > Traditional & Hypothyroidism

> >

> > Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine has been shown to offer an

> > effective alternative treatment for people suffering from

> > hypothyroidism (an under-functioning thyroid gland). In a study at

> > the Shanghai Medical University in China, 66 patients with

> > hypothyroidism were monitored over a period of one year. 32

patients

> > were treated with a Chinese herbal preparation to stimulate the

> > kidney meridian (energy channel) and their results were compared

with

> > a control group made up of the other 34 patients.

> > At the end of the study, the clinical symptoms of hypothyroidism

were

> > reported to be " markedly improved " in the TCM group confirming

that

> > Traditional Chinese Herbal medicine can offer real help in its

> > treatment and suggesting that " hypothyroidism is closely related

to

> > deficiency of kidney energy " .

> >

> > Relation of hypothyroidism and deficiency of kidney yang Zha LL,

> > Inst. of the Integr. Of TCM-WM Med., Shanghai Med. Univ. Chung Kuo

> > Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih (CHINA) Apr 1993, 13 (4) p202-4,195

> >

> >

> > REFERENCES

> >

> > 1. Kuang Ankun, Din Tin, et al., Clinical observation of hypo- and

> > hyper-thyroidism treated with traditional Chinese medicine and

> > changes of plasma cyclonucleotides, Journal of Traditional Chinese

> > Medicine 1980, 21 (11).

> >

> > 2. Li Changdu and Li Peili, Treatment of hypothyroidism with

Chinese

> > herbs, Journal of Guiyang Traditional College

1990,

> > 1.

> >

> > 3. Kuang An-kun, et al., The relationship between the therapeutic

> > effect of TCM on primary hypothyroidism and nuclear T3 receptors

in

> > lymphocytes, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western

> > Medicine 1988, 8(11).

> >

> > 4. Chen MD, et al., Influence of Yang-restoring herb medicines

upon

> > metabolism of thyroid hormone in normal rats and a drug

> > administration schedule, Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional

> > and Western Medicine, 9(2), 1989.

> >

> > 5. Golden, R, Clinical experience at Guangzhou Hospital for

> > Traditional , Journal of the American College of

> > Traditional . 1989, 7(1-2).

> > 6. Guo Xiaozong, et al., Acupuncture treatment of benign thyroid

> > nodules: clinical observation of 65 cases, Journal of Traditional

> > [English] 1984, 4(4).

> >

> > 7. McCarty, M.F. Chromium and other insulin sensitizers may

enhance

> > glucagon secretion: implications for hypoglycemia and weight

control.

> > Med. Hypotheses 1996; 46(2): 77-80.

> >

> > 8. Mithieux, G. New data and concepts on glutamine and glucose

> > metabolism in the gut. Curr. Opin. Clin. Nutr. Metab. Care 2001

Jul; 4

> > (4): 267-71.

> >

> > 9. Croset, M., Rajas, F., Zitoun, C., Hurot, J.M., Montano, S.,

> > Mithieux, G. Rat small intestine is an insulin-sensitive

> > gluconeogenic organ. Diabetes 2001 Apr; 50(4): 740-6.

> >

> > 10. Geng, M.-Y. et al. Protective effects of pyridoxal phosphate

> > against glucose deprivation-induced damage in cultured hippocampal

> > neurons. J. Neurochem. 1997; 68(6): 2500-6.

> >

> > 11. Pearson, D., Shaw, S. Preventing hypoglycemia. Anti-Aging News

> > 1982 Jan; 2(1): 6-7.

> > 12. Ryder, J.W., Portocarrero, C.P., Song, X.M., Cui, L., Yu, M.,

> > Combatsiaris, T., Galuska, D., Bauman, D.E., Barbano, D.M.,

Charron,

> > M.J., Zierath, J.R., Houseknecht, K.L.

> >

> > 13. Isomer-specific antidiabetic properties of conjugated linoleic

> > acid. Improved glucose tolerance, skeletal muscle insulin action,

and

> > UCP-2 gene expression. Diabetes 2001 May; 50(5): 1149-57.

> >

> > 14. Houseknecht, K.L., Vanden Heuvel, J.P., Moya-Camarena, S.Y.,

> > Portocarrero, C.P., Peck, L.W., Nickel, K.P., Belury, M.A. Dietary

> > conjugated linoleic acid normalizes impaired glucose tolerance in

the

> > Zucker diabetic fatty fa/fa rat. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun.

1998

> > Jun 29; 247(3): 911.

> >

> >

> > 15. Stumvoll, M., Perriello, G., Meyer, C., Gerich, J. Role of

> > glutamine in human carbohydrate metabolism in kidney and other

> > tissues. Kidney Int. 1999 Mar; 55(3): 778-92.

> >

> > 16. Utiger RD (2001). Hypothyroidism section of The thyroid:

> > Physiology, thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, and the painful

thyroid

> > chapter. In P Felig, L Frohman, eds., Endocrinology and

Metabolism,

> > 4th ed., pp.315–329. New York: McGraw-Hill.

> >

> > 17. Larsen PR, et al. (1998). The thyroid gland. In JD Wilson et

al.,

> > eds., Williams Textbook of Endocrinology, 9th ed., pp. 389–515.

> > Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders.

> > Utiger RD (1999). Maternal hypothyroidism and fetal development.

New

> > England Journal of Medicine, 341(8): 601–602

> >

> > 18. Hershman JM, Singh N (2002). Hypothyroidism. In RE Rakel, DT

> > Bope, eds., Conn's Current Therapy, pp. 646–648. Philadelphia:

W.B.

> > Saunders.

> >

> > 19. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

> > (2001). Thyroid disease in pregnancy (2001). ACOG Practice

Bulletin

> > No. 32, 98(5): 879–888.

> >

> > 20. Ladenson PW, et al. (2000). American Thyroid Association

> > guidelines for detection of thyroid dysfunction. Archives of

Internal

> > Medicine, 160: 1573–1575.

> >

> > 21. Singh N, et al. (2000). Effects of calcium carbonate on the

> > absorption of levothyroxine. JAMA, 283(21): 2822–2825.

> >

> >

> >

> > Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac

> > Peacefulmind.com

> > ProAcuMed.com

> > Therapies for healing

> > mind, body, spirit

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > *********************************************

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