HYPOTHYROIDISM

The thyroid gland is the body's internal thermostat. It regulates the body temperature by secreting hormones that control how quickly the body burns calories and uses energy. HYPOthyroidism is the UNDER-production of the thyroid hormone. 

SYMPTOMS:

Chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, intolerance to cold, low body temperature, slow heart rate, weight gain, elevated cholesterol, PMS problems, heavy periods, infertility, muscle weakness, muscle cramps, dry and scaly skin, hair loss, loss of 1/3 of outer eyebrows, low immunity, migraines, constipation, poor memory and concentration, goiter, droopy and swollen eyes. 

If you have many of the above symptoms, do a self test:

Keep a thermometer by your bed. When you awaken in the morning, place the thermometer under your arm for about 10 minutes (with the normal mercury thermometer). Or, get a digital thermometer that beeps when the temperature is ready for reading. Keep a log for five days. If your readings are consistently low at 97.6 degree F or lower, it may be an indication of hypothyroidism. Consult your health care provider.

FOODS TO EAT IN MODERATION OR AVOID:

Mustard greens, peaches, pears, radishes, spinach, turnips, and the cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale. Also avoid processed/refined foods, including white flour and sugar.

FOODS/SUPPLEMENTS TO TAKE:

Apricots, asparagus, avocados, dates, carrots, oranges, parsley, potatoes, leafy greens, prunes, seaweed, seasalt and whole grains. Increase on your protein intake by eating nuts and seeds, quinoa, eggs, organic meat. Supplements: Kelp, L-tyrosine, vitamin B complex, brewer's yeast, omega-3, selenium, copper, zinc. Each individual's dosage is different, check with your nutritionist.