Hypothyroidism and Weight Loss - 3 Easy Ways to Lose Weight With Hypothyroidism

By Willie Aris

Unexpected weight gain is one of the major symptoms of hypothyroidism. As a result of this, many people who are suffering from hypothyroidism always find it extremely difficult to lose their body weight. The reason for this unexpected weight gain is because people with hypothyroidism tend to have low rate of metabolism which makes it difficult to convert fats and carbohydrate into useful forms. This can lead to frustration because as the weight gained remains uncontrolled, other associated problems of increased body weight such as heart diseases can develop over time. But in spite of this situation, it is still possible to lose weight with hypothyroid condition.
The following ways can help you to lose weight with hypothyroidism
1). Medication
Proper medication with regular monitoring by your doctor is the basic step towards controlling your hypothyroidism symptoms. Levothyroxine sodium is the most common synthetic hormones normally prescribed by doctors. These synthetic hormones are very effective in maintaining appropriate level of thyroid hormones in the body and have no side effects. When you take these hormones as prescribed by your doctors, your basal metabolic rate will rise and this will enable you to easily convert all the foods consumed into energy form and eventually reduce your weight.
2). Proper Balanced Diet
In addition to medication, losing weight with hypothyroidism can be achieved successfully by modifying your eating habits. You need to eat correct diet suitable for hypothyroid patients, for instance you should regularly eat foods that are rich in iodine. Iodine deficiency in the body is one major cause of hypothyroidism. Foods that are rich in iodine include egg, oatmeal and iodized salt. Iodized salt should be taken in small quantities when incorporate into your diet as excessive intake is harmful to the body.
Another important trace element for maintaining proper thyroid function is selenium. It helps to convert thyroid hormone, thyroxine or T4 into the active form triiodothyronine or T3. Brown rice, peanuts, Brazil nuts are very good sources of selenium, and they should be part of your diet.
More importantly, you should eat foods which are high in fibers. Food with high fibers will help you to control the symptoms of weight gain. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains contain high fiber contents, so include them in your daily diet. You should also drink plenty of water everyday. Water helps to flush out toxin and unnecessary waste from the body and this can help you to lose weight.
3). Exercise
To lose weight with hypothyroidism, you should engage in regular body exercise. Simple exercises such as running, jogging, cycling and swimming can help you to lose weight and control your hypothyroidism. To achieve the desired result, make sure to perform one of the exercises at least three times in a week for about thirty minutes. In addition, yoga and breathing exercises are also effective in controlling weight associated with hypothyroidism.
The best ways to lose weight with hypothyroidism are by engaging in regular body exercises and modifying your diet. In order to achieve the desired result, you need to formulate a healthy diet plan and undertake other Natural Remedies For Hypothyroidism. To learn more about appropriate dietary plan and other natural ways to control your weight and thyroid, visit http://www.squidoo.com/natural-remedies-for-hypothyroidism.
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The Sly Masquerader Part Deux - Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy.

By Dr. Michele Brown OBGYN

This week, let's pretend we have a different 26 year old, newly-pregnant woman sitting on the exam table in her obstetrician's office. She is also excited about her pregnancy but she is more verbal and is telling her physician about the terrible nausea and vomiting, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and general fatigue. The obstetrician can easily see that she seems to be suffering the normal symptoms of pregnancy but is also a bit worried that it may be something else. Even if nausea and vomiting occur in 50-80% of all pregnant women, especially between the 5th and 13th week, a good obstetrician will go a bit further to make sure it is not something more serious before suggesting a medication, or a supplement to reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Is it possible that this woman is experiencing something more severe than the normal, early pregnancy symptoms? Could it be hy-PO-thyroidism?
Quick Review:
As I wrote in my last article, one of the great masqueraders for pregnant women is thyroid disease. Many of the symptoms that women experience in the early stages of pregnancy are the exact symptoms that occur with thyroid problems. Women will commonly experience fatigue, weight gain, constipation, insomnia, and lethargy. Health care providers will often reassure patients that this is normal and these symptoms are due to the hormonal and physiological changes that one expects with the early stages of a healthy pregnancy. However, one must be on the alert that these same symptoms could be representative of a much more serious underlying problem; one that could have major, negative ramifications on the pregnancy and the newborn infant. Left undiagnosed and untreated, hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone) could result in serious, high-risk conditions during the pregnancy. Prematurity, preeclampsia, placental separation (abruption), and/or serious consequences in the child such as congenital cretinism (mental retardation, deafness, muteness).
This weeks article will focus only on hy-PO-thyroidism. (when you have too little thyroid hormone) and its effects on pregnancy.
Just as HYPERthyroidism can be the great masquerader, so too can hy-PO-thyroidism. Symptoms often mimic a normal early pregnancy, such as weight gain and lethargy with a decrease in exercise ability. Hypothyroidism is defined as the inability to manufacture thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. Missing this diagnosis can have grave irreversible neurological consequences for the fetus.
How frequent is HYPOthyroidism in pregnancy?
Hypothyroidism occurs in.1 to.3% of pregnancies. It can be associated with other autoimmune disorders such as diabetes. It is often a cause of difficulty in conceiving since women with this condition have difficulty ovulating.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

• fatigue
• constipation
• intolerance to cold
• muscle cramps
• hair loss
• dry skin
• carpel tunnel syndrome
• weight gain
• intellectual slowness
• voice changes (hoarseness)
• goiter
• insomnia
• lethargy or decrease in exercise capacity
• prolonged relaxation of deep tendon reflexes
• concentration difficulties

What are the dangers to the mother and fetus with untreated hypothyroidism?

• preeclampsia
• low birth weight
• placental abruption
• intrauterine growth restriction
• congenital cretinism (growth failure, mental retardation, deafness, muteness)
• miscarriage
• prematurity
• stillbirth
• postpartum hemorrhage

What are some of the causes of hypothyroidism?
The most common cause of hypothyroidism in pregnancy in the United States is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This is when the body produces antibodies against the thyroid gland rendering it unable to manufacture the hormone. However, the most common cause of hypothyroidism world wide is iodine deficiency. Iodine is essential for the manufacture of the hormone.
Other causes include subacute thyroiditis (viral illness of the thyroid gland), certain drugs (ferrous sulfate, phenytoin, rifampin), pituitary or hypothalamic disease, or prior treatment with radioactive iodine to treat Graves Disease (see previo
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism in pregnancy is made by an elevated TSH (made by the pituitary) and a corresponding low thyroid hormone level (T4). One can also measure antibody levels in the thyroid hormones (antithyroglobulin, antithyroid peroxidase). Measurement of antibody levels is important because women who have antibodies are at increased risk of pregnancy complications and also increased risk of postpartum thyroid dysfunction. Women can have a goiter or large swelling in the neck area. Having one autoimmune disease increases the chance of developing another. Women with type I diabetes have a 5 to 8% chance of developing hypothyroidism during pregnancy and a 25% chance of developing postpartum thyroid disease.
How do you treat hypothyroidism?
The treatment of this disease is to replace the thyroid hormone with levothyroxine till the TSH levels are normal. Generally levels are followed each trimester of the pregnancy since the demands of pregnancy may necessitate an increase in dosage. If the cause of the hypothyroidism is due to iodine deficiency, replacement with iodine is essential not only during pregnancy but also after birth. Also, women who take iron during pregnancy due to anemia will have difficulty absorbing their thyroid hormone so these medications should be spaced at least 4 hours apart.
What is subclinical hypothyroidism?
This is a subgroup of thyroid impairment found in 2-5% of pregnant women. Generally the T4 is normal but the TSH is elevated. Subclinical hypothyroidism has been linked to faulty placental development. There is a three fold increased risk of abruption, higher miscarriage rate, and a two fold increase in the incidence of preterm birth leading to impaired neurodevelopment in the child. There is currently a great debate on whether women who present with this condition should be treated since studies have not shown a benefit with replacement. These patients should be followed after delivery because of the increased incidence of developing overt thyroid disease postpartum.
What course does pregnancy have on a women with already diagnosed thyroid disease prior to becoming pregnant?
Pregnancy has a beneficial effect on women with preexisting thyroid disease. Due to the suppression of the immune system, the antibodies found in Hashimoto's disease decline but, immediately postpartum, there can be a resurgence with marked worsening of the condition. There can be a noticeable reduction in goiter size during the pregnancy.
What is the importance of fetal and neonatal hypothyroidism?
Congenital hypothyroidism occurs in one in 4,000 births. There can be multiple etiologies from genetic, immunologic, environmental, and drug induced causes. It is critically important not to miss this diagnosis in the infant since developmental retardation can occur if the condition goes untreated. Often infants appear normal at birth but deteriorate over several months. Infants can have severe retardation, deafness and muteness. This is the most common cause of mental retardation worldwide. If delay in treatment of congenital hypothyroidism is beyond 3 months, the chance of normal development is low. Currently there is mass neonatal screening programs for all babies in all 50 states prior to leaving the hospital.
Summary:
Hypothyroidism in pregnancy is a condition that should be recognized and treated so severe maternal and fetal complications can be avoided. If thyroid disease exists prior to pregnancy, women should be followed closely and adjustments made to medication throughout the pregnancy. Care should be taken not to miss postpartum thyroid problems which can be transient but have a tendency to reoccur in subsequent pregnancies. Thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy both overt and sub-clinical can predict later thyroid disease. There is also a corresponding six fold risk of diabetes later on in life.
On the other hand, most pregnant women and their babies will not experience significant problems if the hypothyroidism is mild to moderate and, if properly treated, the pregnancy can be expected to progress normally. When treatment is complete, most women feel much better than before their treatment and are able to do more and to enjoy the activities of their daily lives.
Dr. Michele Brown, OBGYN, and founder of Beaute de Maman - Beaute de Maman recognizes the importance of folate supplementation during pregnancy. Often women having severe nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy can be at greater risk of folate deficiency. In addition to providing supplementation of folate through prenatal vitamins, controlling the nausea and vomiting of pregnancy with the Beaute de Maman's natural dietary herbal supplement can help prevent having a deficiency in this important vitamin. The Beaut�roduct contains ginger and Vitamin B6 as a first line natural remedy as per the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology guidelines.
Please visit http://www.beautedemaman.com.
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17 Main Symptoms of Hypothyroid Disease You Need To Know

By Duncan Capicchiano

Many patients have undiagnosed hypothyroid disease. Are you one of them? You may have some or many of the symptoms of hypothyroid disease and not even know it! If you do it is important you recognize the signs and symptoms of thyroid disease and consult with a health provider as soon as possible.
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroid disease are very similar to other diseases. Fortunately with this handy cheat sheet you can decide whether your symptoms are similar enough to hypothyroid to warrant a trip to your health provider.
Remember however that this cheat sheet is not diagnostic. Only your health provider can diagnose a disease. There may be other underlying conditions that cause many of the symptoms described in this article. If you are unwell it is always important you consult with a professional healthcare provider to achieve your best health.
Common Signs And Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism
Here are the more common signs and symptoms of hypothyroid disease. While these symptoms are also common to many other illnesses, if you do have them you should mention them to your health provider. Hypothyroid disease can be determined in many cases through a simple blood test.
Your health provider can also rule out hypothyroidism by performing a blood test, or can use a thyroid hormone blood test to gain information about other processes occurring in your body. It is always important you consult with your health provider when you are not feeling your best so you can work together as a team to achieve your best health.

1. Fatigue or malaise
2. General feeling of weakness
3. Weight gain or the inability to lose weight despite honest efforts
4. Dry and brittle or coarse hair
5. Hair that is falling out
6. Pale, dry, patchy or rough skin
7. Inability to tolerate cold despite others being able to around you
8. Cramps and aches in muscles
9. Constipation, which is constant or regular and difficult
10. Depression and irritability, or other mood changes
11. Memory loss, confusion, and irritation
12. Abnormal menstrual cycles or absence of menstruation
13. Decreased libido
14. Heart rate changes
15. Shortness of breath
16. Coma in severe cases
17. Joint pain or stiffness

Remember that all patients are different, so some patients may have other symptoms depending on the severity of their disease and the amount of time they have had hypothyroidism. Patients with long-term hypothyroidism may have more severe symptoms. Those with mild hypothyroid disease may have few symptoms or symptoms that are not very apparent.
Some people may have only one or two symptoms, but they may be very troublesome. There are some patients that do not have any symptoms but they may have hypothyroidism. In these cases some patients are accidentally diagnosed by a random blood test during an annual wellness check, although this is less common.
If you have many symptoms, your health provider may need to refer you to a specialist, or an endocrinologist, which is someone who specializes in diseases of the thyroid gland. Other people may prefer to seek the care of a natural specialist, or someone that specializes in naturopathy or natural medicine to care for their thyroid gland. Ultimately the choice is yours. Just be sure you make an educated choice.
Dangers Of Not Treating Hypothyroidism
If you do have symptoms and you leave them untreated, you may develop a condition known as goiter. This is a condition when the thyroid gland becomes overly large because of constantly high levels of TSH or thyroid stimulating hormone which is produced to help compensate for too low levels of other thyroid hormones in the body.
Typically when not treated the symptoms of hypothyroid continue to get worse. There are cases when people do not seem to get worse, however over time some people can develop life-threatening conditions.
Some people are not treated simply with thyroid hormone. They may need to make adjustments to their life. However, overall this can be a positive thing. Make the decision to take charge of your life today, and consider caring for your body in a positive way. Using natural remedies with a balanced diet that is specific to control thyroid function, plus regular exercise can effectively reverse hypothyroidism and keep your thyroid function in balance. This can leave you symptom free and full of energy.
For more information on symptoms of hypothyroid disease, or how you can boost your thyroid function naturally, please visit www.HypothyroidismSecrets.com where you can grab a FREE copy of Duncan Capicchiano's hypothyroidism secrets mini-course. Duncan Capicchiano N.D. is a fully qualified Naturopath, Author, and Medical researcher specializing in hypothyroidism.
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Can Natural Hypothyroid Treatment Methods Cure Your Condition?

By Dr. Eric Osansky

Thyroid hormone is the treatment method that just about everyone with a hypothyroid condition receives. But more and more people with hypothyroidism are turning to natural hypothyroid treatment methods to help restore their health to normal. Although some people do need to take synthetic or natural thyroid hormone daily for the rest of their life, many people who thought they would need to be on thyroid hormone forever have been helped through a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol.
The first thing that is important to understand is that in most cases of hypothyroidism, the malfunctioning thyroid gland is not the cause of the disorder. So the thyroid gland usually doesn't just begin slowing down or stop the production on thyroid hormone on its own, as something causes this to happen. And frequently this malfunctioning of the gland is caused by other compromised areas of the body, such as the adrenal glands, immune system (i.e. Hashimoto's Thyroiditis), digestive tract, and/or other areas of the body. So the goal of any natural hypothyroid treatment protocol is to determine the cause of the thyroid condition. And unless the cause is addressed, the person will most likely need to continue taking thyroid hormone daily.
Sometimes a hypothyroid disorder develops after receiving thyroid surgery or radioactive iodine. While some of these people can't be cured, many people still can benefit from natural hypothyroid treatment methods. For example, someone who had hyperthyroidism and received radioactive iodine very well may become hypothyroid, and be told to take thyroid hormone daily for the rest of his or her life. But while the radioactive iodine therapy might have helped to eliminate the hyperthyroid symptoms (and replace them with hypothyroid symptoms), it did absolutely nothing for the cause of the disorder.
What Are Some Of The Causes Of Thyroid Conditions?
There are multiple causes of thyroid conditions that are too numerous to list here. Frequently lifestyle factors will lead to the development of a thyroid condition. For example, someone who has a lot of stress in their life and does a poor job of managing it might develop weakened adrenal glands, which in turn can lead to a thyroid condition. Or the person might have a compromised immune system and develop a hypothyroid condition, and eventually an autoimmune thyroid disorder such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. Of course it takes a long period of time for these conditions to develop.
Another lifestyle factor that can cause or contribute to the development of a thyroid condition is poor eating habits. Eating a lot of refined foods and sugars, skipping breakfast, and/or going long periods of time without eating can also but a lot of stress on your body. This is why one of the primary goals of any natural hypothyroid treatment protocol will be to help the person eat healthier foods that are essential for optimal thyroid health.
In addition to lifestyle factors, environmental toxins can also play a role in the development of a thyroid condition. Over the last few decades there has been a dramatic increase in our exposure to toxins, many of them in our own homes. In fact, about 2,000 new chemicals are manufactured each year. Not surprisingly, over the years there also has been an increase in the number of thyroid conditions. This obviously doesn't mean that all thyroid conditions are caused by environmental toxins, but research has shown that many of these toxins do have a negative impact on the thyroid gland.
Of course genetic factors need to be considered as well. The good news is that the majority of thyroid conditions are not caused by genetics, which means that in many cases we can restore the health in people who have a thyroid condition, and prevent the occurrence of such a condition in someone who currently has a healthy thyroid gland.
How Can Natural Hypothyroid Treatment Methods Help?
A natural hypothyroid treatment protocol will try to get to the underlying cause of the disorder, rather than just manage the symptoms. So for example, someone with a thyroid condition who wants to see if they can avoid conventional medical treatment (synthetic or natural thyroid hormone) might decide to see a natural endocrine doctor. Such a doctor will first evaluate your condition to determine whether or not you're a candidate for natural hypothyroid treatment protocols.
In order to do this, they not only will look at the standard thyroid blood tests that most doctors look at (TSH, T3, T4, etc.), but many also recommend additional tests. For example, many natural doctors will recommend an adrenal stress index test (ASI), which will help to evaluate the function of your adrenal glands. Or they might recommend a male or female hormone panel to determine if there are any hormonal imbalances. Other doctors might want to perform tests to determine if you have any nutritional deficiencies.
In any case, if they determine that you are a good candidate for natural hypothyroid treatment methods, then they will give you their recommendations, and then of course it's up to you whether or not you want to follow them. Unlike conventional medical treatment methods that simply involve taking thyroid hormone, restoring one's health through a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol can be a challenge. As mentioned earlier, any natural endocrine doctor will most likely recommend changes in your diet, as well as you modifying other lifestyle factors. They very well might also recommend that you take multiple nutritional supplements and/or herbal remedies.
So it is a complex process in both finding the cause of the problem, and then treating your condition naturally. This is why it is not recommended that you self-treat your condition, as many people think that simply eating better and taking some nutritional supplements from their local health food store can cure their condition, when this is usually not the case. For those people looking for a quick and easy solution to cure their condition, then a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol might not be for you. On the other hand, if you're committed to getting well and realize that this is not going to be something that takes a few days or weeks to correct, then natural hypothyroid treatment methods might be able to help you.
Dr. Eric Osansky is a licensed healthcare professional who personally used natural treatment methods to restore his health when he was diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid disorder. For more information on how to use Natural Hypothyroid Treatment methods to restore your health back to normal, including a free video and 46-page guide that shows you how to treat your thyroid disorder naturally, please visit his website at www.NaturalEndocrineSolutions.com.
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Everything About Hypothyroidism Tests

By Jane Jack Collins

Tests and Procedures
Blood
After careful evaluation, your physician will decide whether or not you will require hypothyroidism test. The only way to diagnose hypothyroidism is to perform a series of blood tests that will measure the levels of thyroid hormone that the body is producing. Often times you will also receive some antibody tests, which measure the levels of thyroxine in your body. Thyroxine levels generally fall when the condition of hypothyroidism is present. Other hypothyroid tests that may be performed during your blood work up will detect levels of calcitonin, cholesterol, prolactin, and thyroglobulin; each important in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism.
Imaging
Another type of non-invasive hypothyroidism test is visual imaging testing. This type of testing uses the technology of CT or computed tomography, and MRI or magnetic resonance imaging. You will be asked to drink a small amount of radioactive dye, and then wait so that the dye has time to travel throughout your body. This will generally take around 20 to30 minutes. The imaging testing will be performed, and will be able to show any overactive or underactive glandular areas in your body.
Ultra sound is another test that combines the technology of sound, with the imagery to be able to detect the presence of a goiter or thyroid swelling in the base of the neck. It is a quick and simple test that should only take minutes to perform.
Biopsy
When performing a test, a needle aspitation biopsy may be performed. It is a safe and mildly invasive procedure that can usually be done on an outpatient basis. This type of hypothyroidism test is done by inserting a needle into the thyroid gland and extracting cells that will be analyzed in a lab. Pain is minimal, and this kind of hypothyroidism test is very effective in diagnosing hypothyroidism. This test is also used to diagnose cancer of the thyroid gland.
When to Get Tested
Hypothyroidism generally occurs in older adults, so it is advised that anyone over the age of 60 get a test done. Women are more prone to the disease, so it is advised that they get a hypothyroidism test by the age of 50.
Pregnant women are encouraged to get a hypothyroidism test within the first trimester of pregnancy. Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can lead to birth defects and premature delivery.
Hypothyroidism is a serious but treatable disease. When left untreated, it can lead to severe and possibly deadly conditions, but all of this can easily be prevented by getting a simple hypothyroidism test.
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Hypothyroid Diet Tips To Help You Lose Weight

By Dr. Eric Osansky

Many people who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism have difficulty losing weight, and are interested in finding the ideal "hypothyroid diet" to help shed those unwanted pounds. What they often times find is that modifying their diet and exercising regularly doesn't help them to lose weight. Since the thyroid controls metabolism, one can understand how it can be a challenge to lose weight with a hypothyroid condition, as this slows down the metabolism. However, losing weight will be a much easier process if you follow some of the tips I'm about to give.
In addition to following the hypothyroid diet tips I'm about to give, as well as exercising regularly, there is another big factor that will determine whether or not you will be successful in your weight loss efforts. So while you definitely need to pay attention to the following tips I'm about to give you, keep in mind that no matter how well you eat or how much you exercise, you won't lose weight without following the final "Bonus Tip" I'll be revealing at the end of this article.
With that being said, let's take a look at the three tips:
Hypothyroid Diet Tip #1: Cut Out Refined Foods And Sugars. The first thing you want to do is to minimize or completely eliminate the refined foods and sugars from your diet. Eating refined foods and sugars will spike up your blood sugar levels, which in turn will cause a surge in insulin to bring these levels down. The blood sugar levels will then drop down low, which in turn will cause the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Eating this way constantly will put stress on your endocrine system, especially your adrenal glands, which can lead to numerous problems, which I'll discuss shortly.
Hypothyroid Diet Tip #2: Don't Skip Breakfast. This is another common problem, as many people don't eat anything for breakfast, which isn't a good thing after you've gone eight or more hours without eating. If you find that you're not hungry upon waking up in the morning, the reason is because your endocrine system is not in balance. And while I'm not suggesting you need to eat a huge breakfast every morning, you really do need to begin eating something healthy on a daily basis, even if it's a small meal. Just make sure it consists of some high quality protein.
Hypothyroid Diet Tip #3: Eat Every 2 to 3 Hours Thereafter. After you eat breakfast, eating every two to three hours thereafter will help to keep your blood sugar levels balanced, which as you'll learn shortly, will help in your efforts to lose weight. Not eating regularly will once again affect the hormone cortisol, as when you go a long time without eating, your blood sugar levels will drop, and the adrenal glands will then secrete cortisol. If this happens daily over a period of many months and years, then this will stress out your adrenal glands.
How To Make Sure These Hypothyroid Diet Tips Work For You
Now that you have read these hypothyroid diet tips, I'm about to reveal the primary "bonus" tip that will make you understand why most people with hypothyroidism have difficulty losing weight. Here it is: the main reason why people with hypothyroidism have problems losing weight is due to an uncorrected hormonal imbalance. As Dr. Janet Lang tells her attendees during her Restorative Endocrinology Seminars, "hormones are stronger than diet", which means that changing your dietary habits alone won't allow you to lose weight if you don't address an existing hormone imbalance.
There are actually two hormonal conditions that will make it almost impossible for anyone with a hypothyroid condition to lose weight. These two conditions are:
� Estrogen Dominance. Many people with hypothyroidism are in a state of estrogen dominance, which relates to the ratio of estrogen and progesterone. While the wording suggests an excess of estrogen, this isn't always the case, as frequently this is caused by a deficiency in progesterone. In either situation, the estrogen dominance will usually result in weight gain, and losing weight will be extremely difficult, if not impossible to achieve, unless the estrogen dominance is corrected.
� Insulin Resistance. This is another common condition among people with thyroid conditions, and frequently has to do with poor eating habits, as eating a lot of refined foods and sugars, skipping meals, etc. will cause problems with the hormones insulin and cortisol, and very well might lead to this condition if you continue to eat this way. So essentially following the hypothyroid diet tips I gave above will help to prevent this condition from developing.
If you have either of the above conditions and don't address them, then no hypothyroid diet will make much of a difference. Actually, this isn't entirely true, as modifying one's diet will help to some extent, especially with regards to insulin resistance. However, there are other factors involved, especially with estrogen dominance, and so just eating well and taking nutritional supplements alone usually won't correct this hormone imbalance. This is why it's a good idea to consult with a competent natural endocrine doctor, who will recommend a natural hypothyroid treatment protocol that not only can help you lose weight, but just might help restore your health to normal.
The reason for this is because natural hypothyroid treatment methods address the actual cause of the thyroid condition. Although most endocrinologists and other doctors aim their treatment directly towards the thyroid gland, and usually recommend that someone with hypothyroidism take thyroid hormone for the rest of their life, in most cases the malfunctioning thyroid gland isn't the actual cause of the disorder. So for those who have a condition such as estrogen dominance, taking thyroid hormone won't do anything to correct his, which means that the person will continue to gain weight, plus most likely will have other symptoms related to this condition. This doesn't mean that taking thyroid hormone won't help at all with weight loss, as if the sole cause of your weight gain is due to the thyroid gland then it might help. But if estrogen dominance is the primary reason for your weight gain, then taking thyroid hormone isn't going to fix this problem.
In summary, if you have hypothyroidism and are having difficulty losing weight, then in addition to following the hypothyroid diet tips I listed above, you also might want to consider consulting with a natural endocrine doctor to help diagnose and address any hormonal imbalances you may have. In addition to helping you lose weight and correcting any hormone imbalances, being on such a protocol also can potentially restore the function of your thyroid gland back to normal, which means you wouldn't need to take synthetic or natural thyroid hormone daily for the rest of your life.
Dr. Eric Osansky is a licensed healthcare professional who personally used natural treatment methods to restore his health when he was diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid disorder. For more information on how to use Natural Hypothyroid Treatment methods to restore your health back to normal, including a free video and 46-page guide that shows you how to treat your thyroid disorder naturally, please visit his website at www.NaturalEndocrineSolutions.com.
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Hypothyroidism in Men - Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

By Willie Aris

Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient amount of thyroid hormones required by the body for metabolism, such as converting fats and carbohydrates into energy. Thyroid hormones are also important for regulating the body temperature and in the production of protein.
There are two main types of thyroid hormones, these are thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3. If you are suffering from deficiency of these two hormones, your rate of metabolism will slow down and you are likely to experience a number of symptoms. Generally, hypothyroidism is more common among women especially between the ages of 35 and 60 years, though men too are prone to this medical condition.
Causes of Hypothyroidism in Men
Several factors are responsible for the occurrence of hypothyroidism in men, but the main cause is Hasimoto's disease. This is an auto immune disease characterised by the production of antibodies which destroy the tissues of the thyroid gland, and thereby reduce the capability of the glands to produce thyroid hormones. Other known causes of hypothyroidism include medications or surgery, inflammation of the pituitary gland, iodine deficiency, radiation therapy and hereditary or genetics.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Men
Men who are suffering from hypothyroidism are likely to experience a number of symptoms, the more common ones are as follows; weight gain, muscle fatigue and weakness, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, hoarse voice, insensitivity to cold, depression and low sex drive.
Treatments of Hypothyroidism in Men
If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you need to consult your doctor for proper check up in order to know the main cause and the appropriate treatment. Hypothyroidism is normally treated with synthetic thyroid hormone, levothyroxine. This medication helps top supplement the thyroid hormone in the body to normal level.
Apart from medications, there are other natural cures to control the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Foods that are rich in protein, fibers, iodine, selenium, zinc and vitamins such as vitamin A, B complex and C are very good for controlling hypothyroidism. The trace elements in those foods are essential for stimulating the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. In addition, certain herbs are also important for treating hypothyroidism in men. Some of these herbs include bladder wrack, kelp, cayenne, Iceland moss, Irish moss and dandelion root. However, you should consult your doctor before you start to use any of those herbs.
It is very important to treat your hypothyroidism as soon as you are diagnosed, if left untreated it can develop into a more serious health problem. There are various Natural Remedies For Hypothyroidism which involve simple dietary plan and regular exercises which you can start to implement to relieve you of the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. To learn more about these natural remedies so that you can live a healthy life, then visit http://www.squidoo.com/natural-remedies-for-hypothyroidism.
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Hypothyroidism: Warning Signs And Symptoms

By Duncan Capicchiano

Hypothyroid disease might as well be known as a silent killer. Many people consider hypothyroid disease an innocent disease, something easily treated and often detected early. The truth is an underactive thyroid often goes undetected and untreated. If left untreated for too long, in extreme cases hypothyroid disease can lead to irregular heart beats, coma, and death.
It sounds rather scary, doesn't it?
Hypothyroid disease is a relatively easy disease to treat, once detected. Treatment typically continues for the duration of one's life, unless the cause of hypothyroidism can be detected, and eliminated or cured.
Diagnosing hypothyroid disease is easy for the most part. There are however, always times when diagnosis can be difficult, as in cases where a patient has borderline hypothyroidism, or sub clinical hypothyroidism. In these cases, a health provider may have to look more closely at a patient's symptoms before determining whether treatment is necessary or whether an underlying cause must be looked at.
Unfortunately there are still many health providers that neglect to test for thyroid hormone imbalances. That is why it is so important you realize what the signs and symptoms of hypothyroid disease are so you can mention them to your doctor.
Remember hypothyroid mimics many other illnesses. So just because you have some of the signs and symptoms, or maybe all of them, that doesn't mean you have hypothyroidism. It is a good idea however, if you have some of these symptoms to check in with a health provider. They can help you determine whether you need to have a comprehensive health evaluation.
Typically hypothyroid disease is detected or ruled out by a simple blood test. So after evaluating your signs and symptoms, you and your doctor can decide whether to take action.
Here are the most common warning signs and symptoms of hypothyroid disease:

• General malaise or not feeling well
• Feeling fatigued or very tired all the time
• Aches and pains, especially muscle aches or cramps
• Joint pain
• Depression, irritability
• Mood changes
• Brittle hair or coarse hair
• Brittle nails, cracked nails
• A hoarse throat or sore throat
• Constipation
• Feeling cold all the time, when others are not
• Irregular heart rate, too slow
• Coma or stupor
• Feeling confused, memory loss
• Feeling dizzy, double vision

Of course, this list is not comprehensive, as the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may vary from person to person and some people only have a few symptoms. Some people may have symptoms that fluctuate from day-to-day so it is hard for them to discern what their symptoms are. It is helpful to keep a journal of symptoms if you are feeling unwell so you can bring them with you to your healthcare provider's office. That way you will have more accurate information to review with your health provider at your next visit.
If your health provider tests for hypothyroidism and begins treatment, you should continue to keep a journal of symptoms because this will help your health provider monitor the progress and efficacy of treatment. Often patients require an adjustment of the dose of hormones the doctor or health provider prescribes. Supplemental hormones are the most common treatment offered to patients with hypothyroid disease.
Sometimes a patient requires more or less hormones over time as. Treatment for hypothyroidism is typically long-term or for the duration of one's life, unless the cause of hypothyroidism is medication or a temporary illness. If these causes of hypothyroidism can be ruled out by a health provider, then sometimes hypothyroidism will disappear on its own, once the offending cause is removed.
For this reason you should also always provide your health provider with a list of any other pharmaceuticals, herbs, or other agents you may take that could interfere with the function of your thyroid gland. This may include any other hormones or natural hormones you take as well. You may need to eliminate them or adjust them to restore proper function to your thyroid gland, depending on your situation and the severity of your condition.
There are also herbs and nutrients that can help to heal the thyroid and reverse hypothyroidism. So if you do not wish for a lifetime of pharmaceutical treatment to keep your thyroid hormones in balance this could be the best option for you.
For more information on hypothyroidism signs and symptoms, or how you can boost your thyroid function naturally, please visit www.HypothyroidismSecrets.com where you can grab a FREE copy of Duncan Capicchiano's hypothyroidism secrets mini-course. Duncan Capicchiano N.D. is a fully qualified Naturopath, Author, and Medical researcher specializing in hypothyroidism.
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Five Common Hypothyroidism Causes

By Dr. Eric Osansky

For those people who have a hypothyroid disorder, I'm sure many wonder what has caused their condition to develop in the first place. There are many different hypothyroidism causes, which is why millions of people develop this condition. The following represent five of the more common causes:
Hypothyroidism Cause #1: Poor Eating Habits. As you probably know, eating foods of poor quality can cause a lot of health problems to develop, including thyroid conditions. And this of course is a common problem, as many people consume a regular diet consisting of refined foods and sugars. Whenever you eat a refined food or sugar, it spikes up the blood sugar levels, which causes insulin to be released. This then causes the blood sugar levels to "crash", and the hormone cortisol is then released by the adrenal glands.
While eating refined foods and sugars occasionally isn't much of a problem, those who eat them frequently will continuously cause their body to secrete insulin, followed by cortisol, which over a period of months and years will put a lot of stress on the endocrine system. So over time what usually happens is the adrenal glands become weakened, and this in turn will put the body in a state of catabolism. What this means is that the body will begin breaking down.
Since the thyroid gland is responsible for controlling metabolism, when it sees that the body is breaking down, it will try to slow this process down, thus slowing the metabolic rate. In other words, it will slow down the production of thyroid hormone (thus resulting in a hypothyroid condition) in order to slow down the catabolic process.
Eating poorly can also affect the thyroid gland in other ways, as there are many nutrients that are important for proper thyroid function. And if someone isn't obtaining these nutrients through their diet or by taking nutritional supplements, their thyroid gland will malfunction. Some examples of important nutrients and minerals for thyroid function include iodine, Vitamin D, selenium, and magnesium. These are just a few examples, as there are many others that are essential for optimal thyroid health.
So for someone who has hypothyroidism, it is essential to minimize the amount of refined foods and sugars they eat, and replace them with whole foods. While eating a completely organic diet isn't necessary, there are some foods that really shouldn't be eaten unless if they are organic. For example, if you eat meat then it is best to buy organic meat and poultry in order to avoid any xenoestrogens (described below), antibiotics, and other toxins. Certain fruits and vegetables should also be purchased organic as well in order to avoid any pesticides or herbicides. It of course is also important to drink plenty of purified water, and to avoid drinking sugary soft drinks, and even fruit juices on a regular basis.
Hypothyroidism Cause #2: Chronic Stress. Most people deal with a decent amount of stress on an everyday basis, which once again poses a lot of problems with the adrenal glands. The reason for this is because the adrenal glands were designed to handle acute stress situations, but cannot adequately handle a prolonged stress response. And so just as is the case when eating refined foods and sugars, dealing with a lot of stress on a daily basis and not doing a good job of managing it can lead to weakened adrenal glands, which as you already know, can cause a hypothyroid condition to develop.
You might have noticed that I stated those who "don't do a good job of managing stress" are the ones who are susceptible. So it's not really the chronic stress itself that is the problem, but rather how we handle the stress. After all, it's unrealistic to expect anyone to completely eliminate the stress from their life. However, most of us can do a much better job of managing their stress on a daily basis.
I'm not going to go into detail about how to modify the stress response right now, as I've dedicated separate articles on this topic which I of course recommend that you read. But I will say that there are numerous methods of dealing with stress, and for your long term health it is important that you become a master of one or more of these.
Hypothyroidism Cause #3: Insufficient sleep. Not obtaining a good amount of sleep on a regular basis can also lead to a hypothyroid condition. Once again, this frequently relates to dysfunction of the adrenal glands, as if you don't get a sufficient amount of sleep each night, over time this will cause problems with the cortisol levels, stressing out the adrenal glands over time, and can potentially lead to hypothyroidism. You ideally want higher cortisol levels upon waking up, and lower cortisol levels right before going to bed. If you constantly go to sleep late (11pm or later) and then wake up early, over time this can affect your cortisol levels, as many people develop low cortisol levels in the morning, which is one of the reasons they have difficulty waking up and starting their day. So it's essential to your health that you obtain at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night, and preferably 8 or 9 hours.
Of course sometimes it works the other way around, as many people develop an adrenal problem due to another issue, and as a result of the adrenal problem they have difficulty falling asleep. In other words, in some cases it is the actual adrenal problem that leads to the sleep disturbances. In this case, it usually is necessary to correct the problem with the adrenal glands, and when this is combined with other factors the person will usually be able to obtain quality sleep each night. Obviously every case is different, which is why everyone needs to be treated on an individual basis.
Hypothyroidism Cause #4: Environmental Toxins. There are thousands of different environmental toxins, and research has shown that they can lead to many different conditions, including thyroid disorders. In fact, there is a book written called "The Autoimmune Epidemic", which talks about some of the conditions these toxins can cause. And while a general case of hypothyroidism definitely can be the end result of such a condition, environmental toxins can also lead to the development of an autoimmune thyroid disorder, such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis or Graves' Disease.
While it isn't possible to completely eliminate your exposure to these environmental toxins, especially since approximately 2,000 new chemicals are manufactured each year, most people can do a better job of minimizing their exposure to them. Many of the toxins people are exposed to are the result of household products they buy, such as household cleaners and cosmetics. While there are too many toxins to learn about, you should at least be familiar with some of the more common ones, so that you can try to do your best to avoid purchasing them.
Xenoestrogens are one of the most common environmental toxins, not only appearing in the food we eat, but in many of the products we buy. These chemicals have a hormone-like effect on our bodies, and so being exposed to them constantly can lead to a hormone imbalance, which can lead to numerous health conditions. So once again, it's important to try your best to minimize your exposure to these toxins.
Hypothyroidism Cause #5: Genetics. Many people think genetics is a primary factor in the development of thyroid conditions. While genetics definitely can be a factor, research has shown that it isn't as big of a factor as some think it is. This of course is good news, as it means that most cases of hypothyroidism can be prevented, and also improves the likelihood of curing one's existing hypothyroid condition. So if you have hypothyroidism, while genetics might be the sole cause, there is an excellent chance it isn't, which means there is a good chance that you can cure your condition.
Curing The Cause Of Hypothyroidism
What that being said, is it really possible to cure hypothyroidism? After all, when someone is initially diagnosed with hypothyroidism, typically they are told to take synthetic or natural thyroid hormone for the rest of their life. In other words, nothing is done to try to cure their hypothyroid condition, as instead the patient is typically given prescription drugs to manage their symptoms. In fact, millions of people with hypothyroidism have been told by their endocrinologist or general medical practitioner to take thyroid hormone for the rest of their life.
While some people do have thyroid conditions that can't be cured, and therefore need to take synthetic or natural thyroid hormone for the rest of their life, many people can have the function of their thyroid gland restored back to normal through natural thyroid treatment methods. Conventional medical treatments are aimed directly at the malfunctioning thyroid gland, which in most cases isn't the actual cause of the thyroid condition, as you learned above. By reading the above information you now know that many times the adrenal glands are actually the cause behind many thyroid conditions.
And in addition to weak adrenal glands causing hypothyroidism, other affected areas of the body can lead to a hypothyroid disorder as well. Either way, the overall goal of any natural thyroid treatment protocol will be to find the underlying cause of the disorder, and then the holistic doctor will put together an individualized treatment plan to help correct the cause, which frequently will cure the hypothyroidism. One of the keys is to find a competent natural endocrine doctor who has a lot of experience dealing with thyroid conditions. Finding such a doctor can be challenging, but it probably is your best bet to restore your health back to normal, assuming this is possible of course.
In summary, there are numerous different causes of hypothyroidism, and in many cases, it is possible to cure hypothyroidism by addressing the actual cause. The problem is that most doctors just prescribe thyroid hormone to every single patient with this condition, which does nothing more than manage the symptoms, and absolutely nothing for the cause of the thyroid condition. But by keeping an open mind and consulting with a competent natural endocrine doctor, you just might be able to restore your health back to normal, and as a result eventually stop taking thyroid hormone on a daily basis.
Dr. Eric Osansky is a licensed healthcare professional who personally used natural thyroid treatment methods to restore his health when he was diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid disorder. For more information on how to use Natural Hypothyroid Treatment methods to restore your health back to normal, including a free video and 46-page guide that shows you how to treat your thyroid disorder naturally, please visit his website at www.NaturalEndocrineSolutions.com.
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The Link Between Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy

By Kevin Doherty

Hypothyroidism and pregnancy have been linked with each other for the longest time now. They are two very interrelated types of conditions. More importantly, women are at increased risks of developing hypothyroidism when they are pregnant or right after when they give birth. Thus, pregnancy in a certain way can be almost equated to hypothyroidism because the increase in risks it poses to the person.
Since pregnancy is already a very sensitive condition and when couple with hypothyroidism, it can turn into something very crucial for both the mother and the baby. Women are always advised to be very careful when dealing with pregnancy. As much as possible, they need to go through several tests just to make sure that they are not suffering from hypothyroidism. Unnoticed hypothyroidism can lead to a lot of problems even as worse as pregnancy loss. The following sections provide a more detailed look on hypothyroidism and pregnancy.
Hypothyroidism and its Effects on Pregnancy
Hypothyroidism can impact pregnancy in many different ways. These are discussed as follows:
Pregnant women suffering from a condition of hypothyroidism are at increased risk for having miscarriage than those who don't.
Pregnant women suffering from a condition of hypothyroidism that has not been treated or noticed for a long time are at increased chances of having high blood pressure and premature delivery.
Infants whose mothers have suffered from hypothyroidism usually encounter problems when it comes to their mental development. There have been many cases where infants were not able to achieve or maximize their mental capacity because of previous condition of hypothyroidism associated with their mothers.
Women are also at prone of getting infertile following their diagnosis of hypothyroidism.
Since hypothyroidism can bring about a range of problems both for the born child and the unborn one, doctors strongly recommend that expectant mothers get tested immediately or a couple of times to ensure that they are not suffering hypothyroidism. The sooner an expectant mother gets diagnosed, the faster appropriate treatments and medications can be administered. Multiple tests are important because thyroid hormone levels are somewhat unstable so it is impossible to pinpoint the exact gravity of the condition without doing multiple tests. Likewise, even after treatment or all throughout the medication, it is still necessary to monitor hormone levels to make sure that they stay within ideal levels.
The amount of thyroid hormones to be administered as part of the medication relies on the severity of the condition. There are individuals who may require more dosages while others only require a small amount. Further, dosages also need to be adjusted depending on the current hormone level of the person. This is why monitoring constantly is an important aspect of treatment for hypothyroidism in pregnancy.
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Kevin Doherty, L.Ac., MS is a licensed acupuncturist in Superior, CO.
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How To Prevent Hypothyroidism In Children

By Jennifer Vu

Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs due to under activity of the thyroid gland. You must know that the thyroid gland is a butterfly formed gland present in the throat, just below the Adam's apple. This glandular produces thyroid hormones (thyroxine T4) and (tri-iodothyronine T3) which accountable for regulation of metabolism, development and development. The decreased production of these hormones due to the under activity of the glandular lead to the condition known as hypothyroidism. Although this condition is frequently found in grown-ups, children are also discovered to suffer from it. Hypothyroidism in kids can be of two types - genetic hypothyroidism (present throughout birth) and acquired hypothyroidism (establishes later on). Let us see more on the causes, symptoms and therapy methods of this condition in detail.
Causes of Hypothyroidism in Infants and Children
Congenital hypothyroidism is triggered due to genetic abnormalities or abnormalities caused to the thyroid glandular before birth. Second of all, iodine deficiency in the mom can likewise result in hypothyroidism in babies. On the other hand, obtained hypothyroidism, in most of the cases, is caused due to autoimmune conditions. It is generally followed by viral infections. Secondly, use of radiation therapy, use of certain medicines, having a diet doing not have in iodine, and so on, are a few of the various other reasons for hypothyroidism in infants and kids. It has likewise been discovered that those having a family history of the condition are at a higher risk of dealing with it.
Signs of Hypothyroidism
A sensation of tiredness and fatigue are general and many typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. Nevertheless, as these signs are not observed quickly (or rather are neglected in most of the cases), this condition is not detected at an earlier phase. The following are the various other signs and signs of hypothyroidism in children:.

• Goiter.
• Muscle weak point.
• Weight Gain.
• Sluggishness.
• Depression.
• Dry and brittle hair.
• Dry skin.
• Poor psychological performance.
• Irregularity.
• Delay in adolescence.
• Slow-moving development.
• Sluggish heart beat.
• Speech issues.
• Problem in breathing.

Youngsters suffering from hereditary hypothyroidism could struggle with slow-moving growth and development. Their hands, legs, tongue appears longer than regular. The sexual development is likewise really sluggish which causes postponed adolescence. Second of all, the kid might likewise have troubles and difficulty in learning, understanding, speech and habits.
Treating Hypothyroidism.
The diagnosis of hypothyroidism is carried out making use of different strategies. The physician will take the history of the youngster and inquire about the medications taken, diet plan followed by the youngster; and also whether the child has actually experienced any previous diseases and disorders. The physician will ask the youngster to undergo X-rays, blood tests, thyroid scan and ultrasound for precise diagnosis of thyroid issues in kids. If gotten hypothyroidism is caused due to any illness and disorder, the objective of the treatment is to first treat the causing condition completely. There is no irreversible treatment for hypothyroidism; nonetheless, there are a number of medicines that assist in reversing the condition. Children experiencing this thyroid disorder are provided hormone medicines to increase the production of the thyroid hormones. Once the thyroid hormone levels are back to regular, the signs vanish and youngsters may lead a normal life. Growth and development is once more seen generally in children who have received the prescribed thyroid replacement hormone therapy. Nonetheless, it is required to keep an eye on the impacts of the dosage of the medicines routinely through blood tests.
Hypothyroidism is not a life-threatening condition; and can be brought under control utilizing correct medicines and therapy. Nevertheless, one should keep in mind that if the condition continues to be unattended, there is a threat of mental retardation in kids due to lack of psychological growth. For that reason, in case any of the signs are observed, one should seek advice from the physician immediately.
Jennifer Vu is a public health expert and she usually write about topics concerning weight loss and fitness. She is now mainly writing for the hypothyroidism diet plan blog
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Most Critical Hypothyroidism Diet Requirements

By Jane Jack Collins

Diet Requirements
Foods
Hypothyroid diet requirements have long been followed to help alleviate the effects and symptoms of hypothyroidism. The hypothyroid diet is rich with iodine and many of the hormones that are generally decreased during hypothyroidism. Some of these foods include:

• Fish
• Poultry
• Pumpkin seeds
• Low fat dairy products
• Banana
• Avocado
• Lima beans
• Lentils
• Walnuts
• Soybeans

All of these foods have been found to be not only rich in tyrosine (an amino acid) and iodine, but also very effective in decreasing the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Supplements
When it comes to the hypothyroid diet, foods are not the only dietary means of lessening the symptoms of hypothyroidism. It has been found that there are many dietary supplements that help with symptoms such as:
Calcium supplements: Taking a calcium supplement daily is not only a benefit of the hypothyroidism diet, but is also beneficial to the rest of your body. In rare cases your physician may decrease your intake of calcium.
Cholesterol lowering drugs: Drugs such as colestipol and cholestramine have been proven to slow the effects of hypothyroidism.
Antacids: Antacids rich with aluminum and magnesium are a beneficial part of the hypothyroidism diet.
Benefits
Following the hypothyroid diet can reduce symptoms and promote good function of the thyroid gland. Reduction of meat and foods rich in fats and cholesterol, will promote overall health and well being. The hypothyroidism diet can lead to more energy, an increase of mental functioning, and an increase of the production of thyroid hormones. Change in overall lifestyle is the key in ceasing the effects of hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism has been shown to have a major affect on mood often leading to depression. Following the hypothyroidism diet can be helpful in improving mood among most people. This is important since depression can lead to other health problems.
Children with hypothyroidism often suffer from behavioral problems. Following the hypothyroidism diet can help with this problem by leveling the child out, and helping with their concentration.
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What is Hypothyroidism? Learn More

By Jane Jack Collins

Thyroid Gland
When asking the question what is hypothyroidism, we have to look first at the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland located at the base of the neck. It is made up of two lobes that wrap themselves around the trachea or windpipe. The thyroid gland is part of the endocrine system and releases the thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine.
Development of Hypothyroidism
What is hypothyroidism is a question that can be answered by first looking at the causes and development of hypothyroidism. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are brought on when the gland slows or completely ceases the production of thyroid hormones. There are many factors that can cause this to happen:
Autoimmune disease: When posing the question what is hypothyroidism to your physician, they may want to look at performing tests to determine autoimmune disease. Autoimmune disease can sometimes cause your body to mistake thyroid cells for invading cells, causing your body's immune system to attack. In turn, your body will not produce enough thyroid hormone.
Congenital hypothyroidism: Being born with the disease of hypothyroidism is another way to answer the question, what is hypothyroidism. Some infants may be born without a thyroid gland, or they will be born with only a partial gland.
Surgical removal: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland is another answer to the question, what is hypothyroidism.
Unbalanced iodine levels: Another answer to the question, what is hypothyroidism, is unbalanced levels of iodine. Having too much, or too little iodine will cause your body's thyroid levels to fluctuate.
Medications: Taking certain medications can cause the body's thyroid levels to rise and fall. This could very well be another answer to the question, what is hypothyroidism.
Pituitary damage: One factor your physician may look at when posing the question, what is hypothyroidism, is whether or not the pituitary gland is functioning correctly. Your pituitary gland acts as a message center, and it sends messages to your thyroid gland. If the pituitary gland malfunctions it will cause hypothyroidism.
Diagnosis of Hypothyroidism
One important factor when asking, what is hypothyroidism, is diagnostics. The diagnosis of hypothyroidism will often involve many tests. These tests will consist of blood draws, MRI and CT imaging tests, and aspiration of thyroid cells. After running the necessary tests, your doctor will be able to diagnose and treat your hypothyroidism.
Treatment
After diagnosis, your physician will sit down with you and discuss your treatment options. There are many treatment options available, and they will each be dependent of various factors. Most likely, you will be given thyroxine. Thyroxine is one of the hormones that are produced by the thyroid gland, and taking this will help level out your thyroid levels.
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Causes of Primary Hypothyroidism in Women

By Marina Gutner, Ph.D.

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone. Primary hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones necessary to meet the body's metabolic needs.
The main cause of primary hypothyroidism is an autoimmune thyroid condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis which affects women 3 to 5 times more often than men. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors could trigger Hashimoto's disease causing the immune system to malfunction. The thyroid antibodies attack and destroy the thyroid gland leading to inflammation and hypothyroidism.
Pregnancy could cause hypothyroidism due to the shifts in hormonal and immune functions during and after pregnancy. Pregnant women become Th2 dominant in the third trimester. Later on the immune system shifts to Th1 dominance and can trigger Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism.
Both postpartum thyroiditis and silent thyroiditis are a form of chronic autoimmune thyroiditis and could cause hypothyroidism. Postpartum thyroiditis occurs during the first year after delivery. This autoimmune condition affects from 5 to 10% of women who give birth and is characterized by high levels of thyroid antibodies and painless goiter. Postpartum thyroiditis causes temporary mild hypothyroidism that could last up to 4 years and in most cases subside later on.
Silent thyroiditis is also a temporary condition where thyroid gland becomes over reactive initially. About half of affected women progress to transient hypothyroidism which normally subsides within a couple of months. Hypothyroidism becomes permanent only in about 5% of women.
Fluctuations of estrogen during the perimenopause and menopause could trigger Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroid symptoms in women. Excess estrogen inhibits thyroid action, lowers the rate of metabolism and contributes to hypothyroidism. In the opposite case, progesterone supports thyroid function.
An adequate amount of iodine is necessary for the thyroid gland to function and produce thyroid hormones. Both deficiency and excess of iodine are common causes of hypothyroidism and enlargement of the thyroid gland.When not enough iodine comes from the diet then the person may become hypothyroid or subclinical hypothyroid.
Excessive iodine can trigger autoimmune thyroid disease Hashimoto's thyroiditis in genetically susceptible individuals and cause permanent damage to the thyroid gland. Excess of iodine in the diet can stimulate the immune system to create antibodies that attack the thyroid gland. As a result, the thyroid starts to produce less hormones and with time hypothyroidism may occur.
High iodine intake through the diet has been found to increase the incidence of clinical hypothyroidism. Iodine is concentrated in the thyroglobulin within the thyroid gland. After the ingestion of large amounts of iodine with the diet the production of pro-inflammatory free radicals significantly increases and the synthesis of hormones within the thyroid gland becomes impaired causing transient hypothyroidism.
Contamination of food and water supplies with chemical agent perchlorate could contribute to thyroid problems in susceptible individuals. Perchlorate blocks iodine uptake in the thyroid gland and may increase the risk for subclinical hypothyroidism especially in the women with low iodine levels.
Radioiodine treatment and thyroidectomy used for treatment of hyperthyroidism are less common causes of underactive thyroid in women. Whole body irradiation and external radiotherapy of the head and neck could cause damage to the thyroid gland and result in hypothyroidism.
Use of various drugs could cause hypothyroidism. Common medication for bipolar disorder lithium inhibits the release of the thyroid hormones contributing to the development of hypothyroidism and goiter. Lithium and interferons could also initiate chronic autoimmune thyroiditis with hypothyroidism. The iodine containing drug amiodarone and contract agents have been also shown to cause hypothyroidism.
Marina Gutner has a PhD in natural science and is a medical writer on Hashimoto's disease and underactive thyroid in women. On her thyroid blog OutsmartDisease.com, she shares the results of her extensive research on facts and treatments as well as her personal practical experiences on improving quality of life in women with Hashimoto's disease.
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Do You Have Hypothyroidism and How Is It Caused?

By Claire Christina Rathausky

Hypothyroidism: Where Does It Come From?
As with many diseases and disorders, the causes of hypothyroidism don't all stem from one particular source. The majority of cases of hypothyroidism (the under-activity of the thyroid) are caused by problems that begin in the thyroid gland.
These cases are referred to as primary hypothyroidism. Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by problems that attack the pituitary gland, while tertiary hypothyroidism develops due to problems that arise in the hypothalamus. In order to understand the causes of hypothyroidism, the first step is breaking it down into the three types of hypothyroidism - primary, secondary, and tertiary.
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of primary hypothyroidism. Hashimoto's is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system begins to attack the thyroid, preventing it from producing the proper amount of hormones. In order to combat this disease the thyroid attempts to work even harder, which often leads to an enlargement of the thyroid gland - medically referred to as a goiter.
Another, less common cause of hypothyroidism is a negative reaction to radioactive ablation therapy. This type of therapy is commonly administered to patients who have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism or have recently received surgical treatment for thyroid cancer. It is estimated that 80-90% of patients who undergo this therapy will develop hypothyroidism within 2 to 3 months.
Other thyroid disorders that are branches off of primary hypothyroidism include subacute, silent, and postpartum thyroiditis.

• Subacute thyroiditis: Caused by a viral infection that causes the immune system to release large amount of lymphocytes (blood cells that determine the immune response to a virus). These lymphocytes attack the thyroid tissue, resulting in either temporary or permanent hypothyroidism.
• Silent thyroiditis: Caused by an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to release lymphocytes that invade the follicles of the thyroid gland. In this case the thyroid is also being attacked, leading to under-activity and either temporary or permanent hypothyroidism.
• Postpartum thyroiditis: Between 6-8% of women develop symptoms of hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism 6 weeks to 6 months after giving birth. In many cases the thyroid returns to normal after a year, yet other cases result in permanent hypothyroidism.

In rare cases, primary hypothyroidism can be the result of the exposure of the neck to radiation, certain medications that affect the thyroid's production of hormones, or iodine deficiency. Since the thyroid relies on iodine to function properly, a deficiency in this mineral can lead to thyroid problems. Due to the fact that most foods in the US are enriched with iodine, this deficiency is almost completely exclusive to under-developed nations.
Secondary hypothyroidism is less common, but is typically caused by damage to the pituitary gland due to radiation, surgery, or a tumor.

• Hypopituitarism is the decrease in secretion of one or more of the hormones that are produced by the pituitary gland, while panhypopituitarism is the complete depletion of all hormone production by the pituitary gland. Since this gland tells the thyroid what to do, a change in the hormone production of the pituitary affects the hormone production of the thyroid as well.
• Sheehan syndrome typically develops after pregnancy due to low blood pressure. This syndrome causes postpartum hypopituitarism, which can lead to either temporary or permanent secondary hypothyroidism.
• The development of pituitary tumors can also affect the pituitary's hormone production, which in turn leads to a malfunctioning of the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism.

The third, least common type of hypothyroidism is tertiary hypothyroidism, which is typically caused by the dysfunction of the hypothalamus. This part of the brain is in charge of telling the pituitary gland what to do and how many hormones to produce. When this part of the brain is negatively affected by a disorder, the pituitary gland and thyroid gland are both affected as well.
While each of these three types of thyroid disorders are all caused by different factors, the symptoms of thyroid problems remain the same regardless of which subtype of hypothyroidism you have.
However, thyroid disorder symptoms differ between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism (over-active thyroid), so it's important to understand the differences between the two when determining which type of thyroid disorder you have.
Understanding the causes of hypothyroidism is one of the first steps to better understanding your body and getting better treatment; the more you know, the better educated you will be when making treatment decisions.
Claire Rathausky is passionate about natural health and she loves writing about the enormous benefits of supplementing with natural health supplements and the importance of eating wonderful healthy natural foods and the role they play in our lives.
She writes about various health conditions and offers solutions to help bring balance and health to peoples lives again after her own experiences with ill health.
Claire lives on a small farm with her husband and 2 boys, dogs, guinea pigs, cattle and alpacas and grows a lot of their own food and is passionate about looking after our natural environment.
Claire's website can be found at http://www.yourbodycanheal.com
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