13 Warning Signs of Hypothyroidism

By Camille Goscicki

Did you know that our thyroid, the small, butterfly shaped gland in our neck, has some very important functions in our bodies? One of its primary jobs is to manufacture hormones that regulate our metabolism. These hormones also affect all the cells and organs in our bodies, from the heart to the brain.
When the thyroid doesn't produce enough of these hormones, your body slows down. You lose your energy and your metabolism becomes sluggish.
Hypothyroidism can develop when antibodies are produced by our immune system. These antibodies attack the thyroid and damage the hormone production. Other less common causes include radiation treatment of the neck (when some types of cancers are present), some medications, thyroid surgery (removing the thyroid, such as when people have thyroid cancer) and too little iodine in a person's diet.
13 Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism are:
(1) Fatigue, Lethargy
(2) Depression
(3) Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness
(4) Numbness, tingling in hands
(5) Decreased sweating
(6) Weight gain of 10 pounds of less (fluid gain)
(7) Moodiness
(8) Intolerance to cold
(9) Joint, muscle pain
(10) Dry, thinning hair; dry skin
(11) Slower heart rate
(12) Difficulty swallowing
(13) Constipation, heavy periods
I had several of these symptoms before my doctor informed me that I had an under-active thyroid. I just didn't realize that they were linked to this condition. Before being diagnosed, I regularly complained about being tired all the time. I yawned all day at work and took naps on week-ends, sometimes only a few hours after I awoke.
Though I exercised regularly and didn't overeat, I gained around 10 pounds that wouldn't budge, and assumed that it was just because of the aging process. The moodiness? Well, I just attributed that to my astrological sign, Gemini. However, my mood swings did increase, and I was also depressed.
According to my doctor, the depression I had suffered with for a few years may have been the first sign that my thyroid wasn't creating the necessary hormones. I had no idea these conditions could be related.
It should be noted that the symptoms of an under-active thyroid may occur slowly, and like me, many women may mistake them as simply part of aging.
When I was diagnosed, I was put on a prescription medication, and every 6 months, my thyroid levels are checked, along with my regular blood tests. This lets my doctor know if my level of medication is appropriate, or if a higher dosage is needed.
If you have any of these symptoms noted above, and have developed them as you've passed the 5-0 mark, it's important not to hesitate to ask your physician to test you for an under-active thyroid. T Because the hormones developed in the thyroid play a primary role in our body functions, thyroid disorders can lead to other, more harmful health conditions.
Camille Goscicki, AKA Bea Boomer, invites you to get your daily dose of health, wellness, and positive aging topics at:
http://www.beaboomerswellness.com/
http://www.vitalaging4women.com/
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Symptoms of Hypothyroidism in Dogs

By Madeleine Innocent

Symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs is not dissimilar to that in anyone who has this problem. It shows a thyroid deficiency which may be caused by a dietary insufficiency or a thyroid problem.
This condition is not specific to any breed or gender but it does occur more often in middle age to older dogs.
Typical symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs include:

• hair loss or poor hair regrowth
• weight gain
• intolerance to cold
• lack of fertility
• low energy
• slow heart rate
• eye problems such as inflammation or corneal ulcers
• constipation
• anaemia
• behavioural changes
• myasthenia - an autoimmune condition that involves muscle weakness which may show as an unbalanced gait, difficulty chewing or swallowing (so inability to eat leading to weight loss), lack of eye control, lack of ability to hold up head, breathing difficulties
• sensitive skin to touch
• pancreatitis

When the disorder becomes more serious, the symptoms can include cancers (especially those related to hormones such as breast, ovary, prostate) and autoimmune conditions.
Although a veterinary test may indicate hypothyroidism, the mostly likely cause of this condition is a lack of iodine in the diet. This is a global problem across all human fed animals as well as people. The typical diet fed to dogs is the commercial variety which is made more for the benefit of the manufacturer's bank balance than for the health of your dog.
Iodine is key to a healthy thyroid and metabolism. It is needed in every day, automatic function. When there is sufficient iodine in the diet, the thyroid works well. However, other minerals that are close to iodine in their atomic number can mimic iodine and occupy the thyroid or displace the iodine, causing devastation to the body. These include:

• fluorine - found in tap water across the world
• bromine - found in pesticides used in food production, household sprays, many pharmaceutical drugs
• chlorine - found as propellants in sprays, in tap water, processed salt, synthetic sugar replacements
• perchlorate - found in tap water, leather tanning

I believe that the symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs (or in anyone) is much less about the inability of the thyroid than it is about an iodine deficiency. But the pharmaceutical companies and their agents (vets and doctors) wouldn't make as much money if this was publicly recognised.
Natural iodine is found in seaweed, kelp, himalayan crystal salt, saltwater fish, meat and eggs as well as many fruit and vegetables. Synthetic supplements may have a beneficial result initially, but long term use could create other problems.
The best way to help your dog is to start feeding them a natural, quality, wholesome diet that is in keeping with their evolution. This alone may take some time to have an impact. But it is essential to ensure the thyroid continues to function properly.
A quicker way to get results is to treat them with homeopathy. Good homeopathic treatment can help eliminate the harmful chemicals and restore the thyroid to healthy function.
Discover more information on holistic dog health, Single Deadliest Mistake
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How Thyroid Disease Causes Digestive Problems

By Dr. Frank P Lanzisera

Most people think of weight issues or fatigue symptoms when the topic of thyroid disease is discussed. It's true, these symptoms are prevalent but there are other symptoms that are commonly experienced as well. Digestive problems, in particular, are intertwined with the complicated, body-wide effects of thyroid disease.
Hypothyroidism can have a negative effect beginning in the stomach. When thyroid hormone production and/or absorption is low, this restricts the stomach's ability to manufacture a hormone called gastrin. Gastrin is responsible for the production of hydrochloric acid, also known as stomach acid.
Having sufficient stomach acid is crucial to our digestion. When food is not broken down well enough, this can cause the small intestine to not allow it to pass. In essence, the food can stagnate and begin to rot in the stomach producing symptoms of heartburn.
This lack of stomach acid can also cause impaired absorption of vital nutrients including vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. When this occurs, anemias can develop as a result of the underlying hypothyroidism.
Note: It is important to be evaluated if you have chronic heartburn. Self-treating with antacids can be harmful and counter-productive if you actually need more hydrochloric acid in your stomach, not less.
Many of the thyroid patients seen in our office exhibit what's commonly known as Leaky Gut Syndrome (LGS). LGS can be the causative factor behind many digestive symptoms including bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, and diarrhea. Essentially, LGS, describes an intestinal lining that has become too permeable or "leaky".
"What causes leaky gut syndrome?" The primary reason appears to be food allergies, especially gluten sensitivity. Food allergens can have a negative impact on a protein called zonulin. Zonulin modulates the permeability of the intestinal wall.
When the intestines are not able to fully restrict what trespasses through the digestive tract, unwanted particles of ingested food and other substances can end up in the bloodstream. This, in turn, can cause our immune system to become alerted and cause a condition called autoimmunity.
Digestive complaints can be a clue to more serious problems including thyroid disease and autoimmune conditions. In fact, the most common thyroid problem in the U.S. is actually an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
When experiencing chronic thyroid-related or digestive symptoms, it is important to be evaluated by a doctor who can determine the underlying problem. Often, treatment can be focused on what body systems need attention and positive results for the patient can be provided.
For more information, visit http://www.thyroidtampa.com/ or review Drs. Frank and Lisa Lanzisera's book "What's Wrong with My Thyroid?" (amazon.com).
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Hypothyroidism in Women - What You Need to Know?

By Sally J Baker

While hypothyroidism can, and does, affect both men and women, women are more likely to suffer from an underactive thyroid gland than their male peers. Furthermore, because of the differences within the male and female body, hypothyroidism can impact a woman in different ways than it impacts a male. These are the topics and issues to be addressed within this article, and they're extremely important topics and issues for women with an underactive thyroid, or women who suspect they may have one.
General Hypothyroidism Symptoms
Knowing the symptoms of hypothyroidism, and what to look for is extremely important. Because the thyroid gland regulates and/or affects so many different functions in the female body, being aware of all the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism can help you to be more aware of if or when you have an issue. It is also important to note that hypothyroidism is a slow onset condition. Instead of setting in all at once, or over a couple days like a common cold, hypothyroidism often sets in over several years.
Initial symptoms of an underactive thyroid present at tiredness or fatigue. As your condition progresses, you may experience weight gain, constipation, depression, joint or muscle pain, muscle weakness, increased cold sensitivity, heavy periods or periods that increase in duration, pale and/or dry skin, a hoarse voice, puffy skin (especially in the face), and increased fatigue.
If you're experiencing these symptoms, have your doctor test your thyroid function, as well as your bad cholesterol levels (LDL). High LDL levels are often associated with hypothyroidism, and can cause additional issues in conjunction with your underactive thyroid symptoms.
Unique Impact of Hypothyroidism on Women
In addition to the above general symptoms of hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid impacts women in some very unique ways. The thyroid gland as a great deal to do with the reproductive system of a woman, and thus, having an underactive thyroid creates a number of different reproductive and puberty issues.
The thyroid is extremely important in the regulation of puberty, and individuals that experience early or late onset of puberty are generally able to attribute that irregular onset to their thyroid levels. An underactive thyroid will cause late puberty, and may also stunt other areas of growth. Along with puberty onset, an underactive thyroid can also cause issues with the menstrual cycle, making a women's periods very heavy, or longer than usual. Hypothyroidism can also cause irregular periods, or the disappearance of periods entirely. Because of this wide variance in the impact of menstruation, it is important to seek the assistance of your gynecologist if you experience changes in your menstrual cycle, even if they seem minimal in nature, and especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms that may signal an underactive thyroid issue.
As you may expect from the impact on menstruation, hypothyroidism also causes reproductive issues in women. An underactive thyroid impacts ovulation, and may impair or prevent ovulation, thus decreasing fertility. It also increase the risk for ovarian cysts, but oddly enough, increases milk production within the breasts.
During pregnancy, slow thyroid function can harm your growing baby, as well as increase your risk for postpartum thyroid issues. In many cases, hypothyroidism during pregnancy triggers postpartum thyroiditis. If you suspect an issue with your thyroid prior to getting pregnant, be sure to have a thorough evaluation, and remedy the issue as soon as possible. If you're already pregnant, consult your doctor for treatment options that are safe for you and your baby.
As if these issues weren't enough, hypothyroidism can also cause issues with menopause, triggering early menopause in some individuals. Early menopause is considered menopause that onsets prior to, or during your early 40s. Unfortunately, after early menopause has onset, there is little you can do to stop it, and management will have to be discussed with your physician.
Hypothyroidism Treatment
Once you've been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you can begin discussing treatment options with your physician. There are several different treatment and management options, and your treatment plan will depend on your preference, your doctor's preference, and the specifics on your particular condition.
The most common treatment option utilized by physicians is to prescribe replacement hormones to bring your levels back up to their normal levels. This hormone replacement generally comes in the form of a man-made thyroid hormone called T4. By taking this man-made T4, your body generally begins to produce it's own T3 (a secondary thyroid hormone produced from T4).
If your body doesn't begin to make it's own T3, your doctor may prescribe a man-made T3 hormone as well. This combination therapy will assist your body in getting back to normal, and to slowly eliminate your symptoms. In most cases, individuals who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism continue treatment with these man-made hormones for the duration of their lives. However, promise for hormone pill cessation has been shown in those who follow a thyroid and thyroid hormone healthy lifestyle, which includes a specific nutrition plan, as well as exercise.
Visit http://www.thyroidwellnessdiet.com today to find out how balancing your body through food, supplements and lifestyle can help you to finally lose weight and keep it off, regain your energy and be free from underactive thyroid symptoms.
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6 Types of Food to Avoid With Hypothyroidism

By Leo Eigenberg

A well-balanced diet is certain to help those attempting to manage hypothyroidism. Certain foods can interfere with the body's recovery process and even absorb beneficial hormones used for thyroid treatment. Here are several foods to cut from the diet when managing a hypothyroidism condition:
Cruciferous Vegetables
People suffering with hypothyroidism can improve the daily diet by reducing the intake of cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli, bok choy, kale, cauliflowers, and Brussels sprouts. Any of these vegetables can impact the ability to absorb iodine. This is crucial for the proper thyroid function. Try to limit the intake of cruciferous vegetables to about 5 ounces per day to avoid having a negative influence on this condition.
Fatty Foods
A regular intake of fatty foods can limit the body's ability to use the medicine given for thyroid hormone replacement. A diet with a lot of fried foods is certain to have a negative impact on the thyroid and its ability to produce the required hormones. Fats to cut from the daily diet include fatty cuts of meat, margarine, mayonnaise and butter.
Gluten
A gluten reduction is a further step to improving the health condition. A protein like gluten is sourced from processed grains, such as rye, barley and wheat. By reducing the intake of these gluten-based foods, it is possible to avoid irritating the small intestine and disrupting the effectiveness of certain medication.
Processed Foods
Most of the processed foods include a high concentration of sodium, which is best avoided by those suffering from this health complaint. An under active thyroid has the potential to increase blood pressure, and a high sodium diet can make this particularly risk much worse. A patient suffering high blood pressure issues should attempt to keep the intake of sodium below 1,500 mg per day.
Soy
Soy has the potential to make a person more susceptible to hypothyroidism because of the high concentration of plant-based phytoestrogen. This is because the hormone estrogen can have a negative impact on the body's ability to make use of the thyroid hormone. For those experiencing the symptoms of hypothyroidism, it can help to lower the dietary intake of soy.
Sugary Foods
Hypothyroidism sufferers can notice a slow down in the metabolism rate. This can make it easier to put on extra weight when not following a healthy and notorious dietary plan. Aim to cut the intake of sugary foods or if possible entirely remove sugar from the diet.
Get a lot more information on the best diet for hypothyroidism [http://bestdietforhypothyroidism.com/hypothyroidism-treatment/diet-for-hypothyroidism] options to help improve the all-round health and well-being.
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Hypothyroidism - Nutritional Tips For Weight Loss And Having More Energy

By Shannon Sanford

It is estimated that 27 million people have Hypothyroidism. This is an autoimmune disease in which the thyroid is unable to produce enough hormones to meet the body's needs.
Lab Tests:
Blood tests that are used to measure thyroid hormone levels include TSH, T3, and T4. Many times people are unaware that they have the disease because the lab tests are not always accurate.
Symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Weight Gain
• Hair Loss
• Constipation
• Dry Skin
• Puffy Face
• Intolerance to Cold Temperatures(Cold hands and feet)
• Depression
• Brain fog
• Hoarse voice
• Irregular Menstruation
• Infertility
• Muscle Stiffness and Pain
• Edema
• Poor Digestion and Circulation
• High Cholesterol
• Hormonal Imbalance
• Ringing in the ears
• Difficulty Sleeping

Tips For Weight Loss and Having More Energy:
1. Take your medication. Based on my experience, the majority of people require lifetime medicine to treat this disease. Synthroid appears to be one of the safest and most effective ones to use.
2. Eat lots of protein. People with thyroid problems generally require more of these types of foods. Lean meats such as fish, turkey, or chicken breast are great choices along with limited amounts of lean meats like beef. Other good options are milk, cheese, and nuts. Eating protein in the morning helps improve memory and sleep; reduces jitteriness, agitation, and mood swings; and can boost your energy.
3. Cook with Coconut Oil. We have frequently heard that this type of oil is not good for us. However, it has actually been known to increase metabolism and promote weight loss. There are many additional benefits as well. The important thing to remember is to choose one that is organic and of a very good quality.
4. Include the following Vitamins in your diet:
-Vitamin A. For many years, we have heard that we should not eat saturated fats. However, foods such as egg yolks, butter, cream, and whole milk are naturally high in this essential nutrient. People with autoimmune problems need more of them to stimulate the metabolism and to provide hormonal nutrients. Everything in life requires balance, so I'm not advocating eating tons of fats. However, they are needed to support your thyroid.
-Use B12 on a regular basis. All of the B vitamins are important, and it may be difficult to get enough of them in your daily food supply. Therefore, you may consider adding a capsule. Some alternatives include a liquid complex if you can't metabolize a pill form. You can also take an injection. Signs of deficiency include: Numbness and tingling in your hands, arms, legs or feet; tremors; poor reflexes; tongue soreness; leg pain or difficulty walking with balance; weakness; breathlessness; memory issues; irritability; confusion; brain fog; or depression.
-Consume C. This is critical for adrenal function. It is important to make sure that bioflavonoids are included to sustain the antioxidant activity.
-Increase D if needed. People who are overweight tend to have lower levels. This supplement also supports the immune system and supports muscle strength.
-Add E if appropriate. This substance can enhance vitality and is a good anti-inflammatory. It can sometimes interfere with certain medications, so be sure to check with your doctor first. Natural vitamin E, (in the form of d-alpha tocopherol), is the most recommended type.
5. Include the following minerals in your regimen:
-Strengthen with Calcium. Many of us don't consume enough in our dairy products. It can help with weight loss as well as stronger bones. If you choose to add a capsule, it is best that the calcium has boron added with it so that the body can easily absorb it.
-Enhance your life with Magnesium. This mineral is required for over 300 reactions in the body. In fact, most people are deficient. It is also used for the conversion of T4 into T3. A diet high in refined food and caffeine encourages magnesium loss.
-Include iron if needed. Unfortunately, thyroid problems can sometimes cause anemia. Be sure to check with your doctor.
6. Drink your water. It is important to stay hydrated. If possible, drink eight glasses of water a day.
7. Spice it up. Turmeric is a spice that you can find in your local grocery store. It is grown in India and tropical regions of Asia. The main ingredient is Curcumin. A study found that curcumin might be an effective way to treat aggressive papillary thyroid cancer. (Elsevier Ltd., "Curcumin Inhibits Invasion and Metastasis in K1 Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells", NCBI, Pubmed.gov, US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, August 15, 2013, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23561205)
8. "To carb or not to carb"? One thing I have learned about health is that we are all different. Many times it takes trial and error to find out what will work for our own bodies. Some people with hypothyroidism need more carbs than most people. On the other hand, having too many carbs, (especially bread and gluten products), might actually make others feel worse. Test it and see which one makes you feel your best.
Last Things To Consider:
There are more supplements that might also be helpful for this type of disorder. Likewise, many of the items listed can also help with other health conditions.
Over the years, I have come to realize that not all vitamins and minerals are created equal. Sometimes, better quality ones are found at health food stores. Other retail establishments can sometimes add unnecessary fillers and things that can be detrimental or ineffective.
So if you are having any unusual warning signs, you might want to look them up for more information. Find a guide that can tell you the number of milligrams to take for each supplement and the best type to take. The book can also tell you if your choices will counteract with certain medications that you might be taking.
Time Factor:
The general rule of thumb is to take any nutritional products and medications at least two hours apart. However, there are some supplements that cannot be taken at all with medicines. So always check with your doctor first.
Be Proactive:
You can definitely start feeling better and seeing improvements in your body mass index. It will take a little time due to the nature of this condition, but don't give up. The key is to become an active participant in taking care of yourself. Go to the doctor, keep your blood work checked, and discuss any potential interactions before changing your routine. If you already have the majority of the symptoms for this disorder, even though the blood work indicates that you don't, listen to what your body is telling you. Nothing is more important than your health. Take charge of it today!
Shannon Sanford has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. In addition, she has been studying health and nutrition for over 30 years. She may be contacted at: https://www.elance.com/s/edit/treasured/ or https://www.linkedin.com/pub/shannon-sanford/16/7b8/73/ for additional information and for writing projects.
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3 Reasons Your Thyroid Is Stopping You From Losing Weight

By Holly Franklin

Yes, your thyroid could be stopping you lose weight. If you're a serial dieter and not been able to lose weight then you might want to read this article.
Did you know 20 million American's right now are overweight when they don't have to be? These people have a thyroid disorder and don't even know it.
They try dieting and exercise and can never shift their stubborn belly fat and may even put more weight on. Instead of losing weight these people often become depressed and their confidence takes a knock.
If this all sounds familiar then the chances are you have low thyroid function and don't even know it. Don't worry though because there is a solution.
Weight loss is possible even if you have low thyroid function and you can overcome your health issues if you have the right information.
1. Why Your Thyroid Is Stopping You from Losing Weight
When you have low thyroid function it affects many of your body's systems including your metabolism. When your thyroid is functioning at a reduced rate your metabolism slows too.
If you're metabolism slows down then you will burn calories at a reduced rate and body's ability to digest food and use it for energy rather than being stored as fat is reduced.
But there is a kicker...
When you diet and take in less calories all you do is slow your metabolism further so you may actually even put on weight rather than losing it despite eating less.
How unfair is that? So the fact you can't lose weight even though you stick religiously to your diet is most likely not your fault.
2. Depression, The Thyroid and Weight
When it comes to depression and low thyroid function the numbers are staggering...
Recent research suggests that half the population of the US which suffers from depression or a nervous disorder do so as a result of suffering with undiagnosed hypothyroidism.
People often consciously or unconsciously turn to certain foods when they're depressed. These foods are high in sugar and/or fat and make people feel better, if only for a short period.
The problem is that good feeling makes you want to eat more, but that makes you feel bad and guilty about yourself. The result is your depression becomes worse so you eat more and gain more weight.
3. Your Thyroid Is The Main Cog Of The Body
Your thyroid is vital to keeping your liver, brain, kidneys, skin and heart healthy. When you suffer with low thyroid function your body doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, it stops your body from functioning normally.
If your body isn't running properly, one of the main problems is you either gain weight or have an inability to lose the weight you have put on however hard you try.
So What Can You Do If Your Thyroid Is Responsible for Extra Pounds?
If you're ready to discover the truth about burning fat and understanding how to control your weight with easy to follow small changes to your lifestyle you need some more information.
You need to know how 82% of fat loss comes from nutrition. You need to kick-start your metabolism to lose weight when you have a thyroid disorder. To find out more simply click here now.
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