THE UNDER-ESTIMATED THYROID
The Thyroid Gland - a powerful thing !
After many frustrating months trying to lose some extra kilos that have piled on quite relentlessly ; I finally consulted my very wise doctor !
"Why , oh why are the kilos piling up ?" I asked.
Quite a mystery when I have been eating healthy , cutting out refined carbs and excercising regularly.
Was I facing early menopause ?
Was I just going to turn into a middle aged , grumpy , frumpy , miserable person ?
Then the A-HA question !
"When last did you have your Thyroid checked"? "Ummmmmm, In 2011"!
The Thyroid gland - tiny and underestimated !
Mine is under-active ! So now what ?
Symptoms to look out for :
* Depression
* Dry skin
* Brittle hair and nails
* Lethargy
* Dizzy spells
* Unexplained tiredness
* Moodiness
* Unexplained weight gain
If you suspect you could have an under-active Thyroid , contact your doctor for blood tests.
Make sure that you are tested for TH , T3 and T4. Using an integrated medical practitioner is a great way to go as they treat you holistically.
You will more than likely be put onto meds like Eltroxin , however supplementation and diet , as well as regular exercise is very important.
Ask your doctor to also test for Vitamin D deficiency as this is very common with an under-active Thyroid.
Supplements that can help : (consult your doctor)
Vit A , E , C , Iodine , Selenium , Zinc , Iron , Copper , B Vitamins and Anti-oxidants
Foods that can help :
Kelp , seaweeds , sea salt / himalayan salt , bone broths , dark green veggies , butter and dairy (raw , grass fed) , eggs , Kefir (fermented milk) , yoghurt , oregano , sage , stawberries , cranberries , artichokes , asparagus.
Avoid :
Gluten , soy , brussel sprouts , broccoli , cauliflower , cabbage.
Be cautious with fish due to mercury.
Also avoid :
Aluminium , mercury , flouride.
My fight with my thyroid continues ! This is a battle I will win - now that I know what I am dealing with.
Don't be scared to get checked out.
A large percentage of people are walking around on anti-depressants without knowing that their thyroid is actually the problem.
