In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland is unable to produce sufficient amounts of a hormone that creates a chemical reaction to convert food into energy and release the energy to the cells. This condition, hypothyroidism, causes many symptoms, yet is easy to correct. Dr. James Balch, a medical doctor with an extensive background in natural healing, recommends proper diet, natural thyroid supplementation and homeopathic prescriptions. However, there is not enough supporting scientific evidence that this regime will effect hypothyroidism. In severe cases, conventional thyroid hormone replacement may be required.
Hypothyroidism Diet
The recommended diet includes foods to eat as well as foods to avoid. Eat iodine-rich foods such as sea vegetables, fish and sea salt. However, Dr. Balch explains that iodine-rich foods will not effect thyroid function unless the person is actually deficient in iodine. Sea vegetables can be purchased at a health food store and are called kelp, nori, dulse, kombu and wakame. Include pumpkin seeds, beans and almonds to ensure receiving zinc, selenium, copper and the amino acid tyrosine. Dr. Balch explains that these nutrients are often deficient in those with hypothyroidism. Essential fatty acids are also helpful and can be found in fish, flaxseed and walnuts. The U. S. National Library of Medicine warns that iodine may increase the effects of diuretics. Avoid kale, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, soy and Brussels sprouts because they suppress thyroid function. Tap water contains fluoride and chlorine, which interfere with iodine absorption.
Armour Thyroid
Dr. Steven Bratman, medical doctor who graduated from University of California at Davis' School of Medicine and is now practicing in Denver, Colorado, recommends taking the natural hormone replacement therapy product called Armour Thyroid. It provides the thyroid hormones levothyroxine, or T4, and L-triiodothyronine, or T3, which are required for normal thyroid function. However, larger doses may produce serious side effects and should be avoided by the elderly and those with angina pectoris and other cardiac diseases and diabetes. Also, there may be drug interaction with those taking an anticoagulant or anti-blood clotting drug. Armour Thyroid may increase or decrease the effects of theophylline, an asthma medicine, blood thinners such as warfarin sodium, cholestyramine, colestipol, estrogen preparations (including some birth control pills), insulin and oral diabetes medication. Balch recommends taking one tablet or capsule of thyroid glandular or pituitary glandular three times a day on an empty stomach. Dr. Bratman warns that glandular supplements, which are made from cow or pig glands, may not be compatible in humans and may cause absorption complications.
Homeopathic Supplements
Balch prescribes several homeopathic supplements to improve thyroid function as well. Take 500 mg of the amino acid L-tyrosine twice a day on an empty stomach. Take 3 pellets of homeopathic thyroidinum 3x or 6x three times a day. Be sure to monitor thyroid function with a doctor while taking these supplements to ensure the correct dosage amount. For women with hypothyroidism and low progesterone levels, apply one fourth teaspoon of natural progesterone cream to the insides of the forearms and wrists twice a day from day 15 of a 28-day cycle until one day before menstruation begins. Consult a doctor before using natural progesterone cream, as the dosage amount may vary from woman to woman. However, the lowest recommended dose is usually prescribed to protect users against possible osteoporosis, or softening of the bones, and cardiovascular disease. Side effects include changes in appetite, diabetes, fever, headache, increased heart rate, irritability, nausea, nervousness, sleeplessness and weight loss.
References
- "Armour Thyroid"; Forest Laboratories, Inc.; 2010
- "Estrogen therapy during menopause"; Practical Treatment Recommendations"; Sitruck-Ware, R.; February, 1990
- "Collins Alternative Health Guide"; Bratman, M.D., Steven; 2007
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; Balch, M.D., James; Stengler, N.D., Mark; 2004
