Handle Hashimoto's thyroiditis naturally

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http://www.dearpharmacist.com/Hashimotos.html

Published September 28, 2008

 

Q: I’ve had Hashimoto’s thyroiditis for six years, and I’ve not been able

to get full control of it. My antibodies are still very high, and I’m

always tired. I just don’t know what else to do, and I’ve seen a dozen

doctors. Any fresh ideas? – M.C. Ocala

A: Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disorder where your own body sees your

thyroid gland as the enemy and launches an all-out attack. This creates

inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland. It causes an increase

in “antithyroid peroxidase,” abbreviated as TPO. This should be measured

by your doctor in routine lab tests. Some people have no symptoms while

others suffer with disabling fatigue, depression, weight gain, dry skin

and hair, muscle cramps, constipation and memory loss. Some people

develop a goiter which looks like a hump just below your Adam’s

apple.

Physicians prescribe thyroid medication in order to raise levels of

thyroid hormone: Levoxyl, levothyroxine, Synthroid, Cytomel and Armour

Thyroid. The medications don’t suppress the autoimmune attack in your

body, but they do increase levels of thyroid hormone quickly. For now,

here are a few natural options. I’ll put more choices in my

newsletter.

Selenium: This mineral can lower those TPO

antibodies I mentioned earlier. This is awesome because high TPO spells

misery. Try “L-selenomethionine” 200 mcg every day (or 100 mcg twice

daily) for 6 months.

Tyrosine: Your body uses tyrosine (and

iodine) to make thyroid hormone. It’s a standard recipe. Take about 500mg

one to four times daily. Careful: Excessive tyrosine can speed the

heart.

Avena sativa - From the wild oat plant, an effective tonic for

improving thyroid function as well as other health benefits.

Iodine: You can take iodine supplements such as

Iodoral or you can use a seaweed that is rich in trace minerals,

especially iodine. It’s called Bladderwrack, which is short for Fucus

vesiculosus. Use short-term.

Ashwagandha: Also known as Indian ginseng,

this herb stimulates thyroid activity; it’s sold widely at health food

stores. Make sure your brand is “standardized.”

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): An Ayurvedic

herb that is actually food for elephants. It goes by a few other

names including Asiatic Pennywort and Luei Gong Gen. It contains

chemicals which improve collagen formation in bones, cartilage and

connective tissue. It also helps with circulation and the general

health of blood vessels. Research suggests a beneficial effect for memory

and concentration as well as healthy thyroid function.

MycoPhyto: This is a blend of mushrooms that

calms your body down. It tells your immune system to “Stop! Get a hold of

yourself!” I love medicinal mushrooms because they are smart, they know

how to balance your immune system and calm the overactive cells that

spark all the trouble. This product can be used for any type of immune

system disorder. This brand is sold online at various Internet

sources.

Coleus forskohlii: This is an herb from the

mint family. Disregard the funny name, it’s powerful. It boosts energy,

improves allergies, asthma and psoriasis, boosts thyroid levels and can

help with glaucoma.

Avoid soy since it lowers thyroid hormone. So does eating a lot of

broccoli, Brussels sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables. Stick to

lower doses of I3C and DIM (supplements used in prostate and breast

cancer).

Natural therapies to alleviate symptoms

include:

Homeopathy

Massage

Acupuncture

Ayurveda

Yoga

Did you know?

Safety issues have now been raised about using Spiriva and Atroven,

two inhalers used in asthmatics. If you have a heart condition, these

drugs may possibly worsen your condition.

 

 

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