Hypothyroidism

By Steve Marmor

One gland in particular that can start to act up around midlife is the thyroid gland. As it turns out, the most prescribed medications in the country after birth control, are the class of medications for hypothyroidism (synthroid, levoxyl, armour thyroid, are examples). A couple of primary reasons for this are: lack of de-chlorinating shower filters, which result in an ongoing onslaught to the thyroid from chlorine, over decades, in vapor or steam form. Chlorine is very problematic for the thyroid, as well as the entire glandular system. The other reason is the lack of iodine and other important vitamins and minerals, primarily water soluble vitamins and minerals, that are not consumed regularly and in much shorter supply these days because of depleted soils.

The small butterfly-shaped gland, located in the neck below the Adams apple, works hand in hand with the adrenal glands to produce energy. Although it weighs less than one ounce, it regulates much of the body’s metabolism. The thyroid hormone, thyroxine in particular, keeps many of the bodily processes operating, including heart rate, body temperature, muscle contraction, calorie use, protein metabolism and production of enzymes to break down carbohydrates and glucose, are examples.

Women are five times more likely than men to suffer from low thyroid function, most commonly developing symptoms between the ages of 35 and 60.

Fortunately, nutrition and herbal supplementation can go a long way in helping the thyroid. Examples are: iodine, B vitamins, zinc, manganese, and the amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine. There are natural supports for nourishing the thyroid that contain all these elements and more, instead of having to try to gather them separately. Correcting underlying vitamin and mineral imbalances can do much to correct thyroid function without the use of the synthetic hormones traditionally prescribed.

Contact or stop by Herbs & More, in Encinitas, Ca. 760 753-7272, serving Solana Beach, Vista, Del Mar, La Jolla, San Marcos, Oceanside, and the greater San Diego area since 1993. Health classes held every Wednesday from 12:30-1:30.