Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid fails to produce enough thyroid hormones for the body. It is determined by blood tests that measure the amount of stored hormone (T4) which is converted to T3. T3 is the free floating hormone in your blood stream and the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland.
Considerations
Traditionally, hypothyroidism is treated through pharmaceutical replacement therapy. Some medical physicians, chiropractors and homeopaths offer alternative treatments. It is important to understand your condition and what the effectiveness of the alternatives are.
Speculative Dietary Supplements
Iodine is used by the thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones; it is found in kelp, shellfish, table salt (read labels for iodized salt) and iodized potassium. As there is no FDA information for the amounts needed for homeopathic applications, to treat hypothyroidism it is important to rely on your health care provider for the amount to use each day.
Glandulars
A board-certified medical doctor may prescribe ground up bovine (cow) or pig thyroid glands. This is the original source for thyroid hormone replacement and is still used today instead of the chemically-created ones; they are not sold over-the-counter.
Significance
Always get treatment for hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormones affect every metabolic function right down to the cellular level. Neglecting to correct the deficiency leads to other health concerns; in particular, hypothyroidism is connected to autoimmune disorders.
Borderline
If you've seen a physician and he says that your levels are in the lower end of normal but doesn't recommend replacement therapy, you can help to increase the function of your thyroid gland with the nutritional supplements listed.
Tags: replacement therapy, thyroid gland, thyroid hormones
