Optimizing Your Thyroid Health

The thyroid gland is our body's gas pedal, regulating how many calories we burn for energy. When it is underactive, it can cause any or all of the following:

• Fatigue
• Achiness and pain
• Cold intolerance
• Brain fog
• Constipation
• Infertility
• Weight that we can't lose

Unfortunately, current blood testing misses the majority of people who need thyroid hormone treatment. Sadly, many physicians don't know that thyroid testing is unreliable, and continue to only treat the tests – instead of also treating the person. Holistic physicians (visit www.IFM.org to find one) usually know how to treat taking both your symptoms and labs into account. In my opinion, most people with even 2 of the above symptoms should consider a trial of natural prescription thyroid (e.g., Dessicated Thyroid). Even with normal lab tests.

Standard blood tests often fail to detect thyroid issues in many people who actually need treatment. Unfortunately, many doctors rely solely on these tests, rather than considering a patient’s symptoms as well. As a result, many individuals go undiagnosed and untreated.

Holistic physicians, who take a more comprehensive approach, understand the importance of evaluating both lab results and symptoms.

If you have at least two of the symptoms mentioned earlier, I believe it's worth considering a trial of natural prescription thyroid medication, such as desiccated thyroid, even if your lab tests appear normal. Sometimes, listening to your body is just as important as looking at the numbers.

(You can read more articles on hypothyroidism and other thyroid issues at the section in my blog, Articles on Hypothyroidism By Dr. T, in particluar the article Thyroid Hormone Deficiency — An Overview.)

Thyroid Support From Nutritional Supplements

Below are nutritional supplements that support keeping your thyroid healthy.

For Hypothyroidism – Desiccated Thyroid

I tailor the dose of prescription desiccated thyroid (such as Armour Thyroid) based on what feels best for the patient, while ensuring that Free T4 levels stay within the normal range for safety. TSH levels, often used to assess thyroid function, are not a reliable indicator on their own. For the best treatment approach, you may need to work with a holistic practitioner who understands the importance of balancing both symptoms and lab results.

To Optimize Thyroid Function in General

Iodine, Selenium, Tyrosine

Optimize iodine (200 µg), selenium (55 µg), tyrosine (377 mg) and other nutrients that support thyroid function. These can be found in a single daily multinutrient mix called the Energy Revitalization Drink Mix. This combination of 30 key nutrients in a single drink is, imho, the best multivitamin/multinutrient in the world.

High-Dose Iodine

Taking a high-dose iodine supplement, such as Tri-Iodine™ (6.25 mg or 12.5 mg daily), can significantly boost energy levels while supporting both thyroid and breast health. Many people find that adding iodine in this form helps optimize their overall well-being.

Iron (If Low)

Low iron levels can prevent your thyroid hormone from functioning effectively. I recommend supplementing with iron if your ferritin level is below 60, even if you don’t have anemia, as iron deficiency is common.

If you’re taking thyroid medication, be sure to take iron supplements at a different time of day. Otherwise, iron can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption, reducing its effectiveness.