Natural Therapy

It is most likely that your doctor has prescribed you the drug levothyroxine (common brand names include Synthroid and Levoxyl), which is a synthetic version of the thyroid hormone known as T4. There are other hormones at work in healthy thyroid function, the most notable of which is T3. A healthy thyroid produces some T3, but the rest of this necessary hormone is converted from T4. drugs made from porcine (pig) thyroid glands (a common brand name is Armour Thyroid). (Bear in mind that even this natural thyroid hormone is still considered a drug, and must be prescribed by a physician.) As mentioned above, many hypothyroid patients find that some of their symptoms continue, even after treatment and after lab test results return to a normal range. There are several natural supplements, exercises, and dietary changes which can help: Vitamins: A high-quality multivitamin is a good place to start (drug store vitamins are generally not potent enough for the needs of someone suffering from hypothyroidism, it is best to visit a health food store to find the quality you need). (Calcium must be taken at least four hours apart from your thyroid medication, otherwise it could interfere with absorption.) Amino Acids: L-tyrosine is actually a component of your T4 and T3 thyroid hormones. Any deficiency in this amino acid can interfere with the healthy function of your thyroid. Herbs: Many different herbs may be helpful in supporting thyroid function. Coconut Oil: There is new evidence which suggests that supplementing your diet with coconut oil can help thyroid function. Foods to avoid: Certain foods can interfere with thyroid function. (Cooking may reduce or eliminate any problems.) There is no need to eliminate these foods completely, eating them in moderation should be sufficient (although soy, in particular, should be eaten at least four hours apart from the time you take your thyroid medication). Exercise: Everyone feels better when they exercise, and this is no different for those with thyroid problems. One yoga pose in� particular is said to support thyroid function, it is known as a “shoulder stand”. It is advised that you work with a naturopath or holistic physician (and possibly a nutritionist) while you make these changes, and it is important to monitor your thyroid levels frequently to see if your medication dosage needs to change.