HYPOTHYROIDISM

Thyroid Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Information on Low Thyroid

Q: My doctor said my thyroid was normal, but I have the symptoms of low thyroid. What should I do?

A: Many doctors don't appreciate the fact that we have an epidemic of low thyroid disease in our society. They depend solely on the TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) test to make their diagnosis. Unfortunately, this is a poor test that is often inaccurate. We now have more advanced lab tests, including Total T3, Free T3, and T4, that should be done on anyone suspected of having low thyroid.

The best diagnosis is one made by a doctor experienced in thyroid illness, who observes your physical symptoms of low thyroid, combined with your basal body temperature readings and your lab results.

Q: Why do so many people have low thyroid?

A: Environmental factors we are all exposed to can adversely affect your thyroid:

  • Air pollutants
  • Water pollutants including chlorine, bromine, and fluoride
  • Herbicides and pesticides

Q: I have taken thyroid medication in the past and it didn't make me feel any better. Why should I try again?

A: Any of these problems may have occurred:

  • Your thyroid dose was too high or too low.
  • You were on the wrong form of thyroid medication.
  • You may have an adrenal, iodine, or environmental illness that has to be addressed prior to thyroid treatment.

Q: What dietary factors can make my thyroid worse?

A: Please be aware of these foods

  • Excessive cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, etc. Please consume at most 3 servings per week.
  • Soy: please avoid soy milk;eat tofu only once per week; tempeh and Miso are fine since they are fermented.

Q: Are there any good books I can read on the subject?

A: Three good books to read are:

  • Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness by Dr. Broda Barnes, M.D.
  • Hypothyroidism Type 2 by Dr. Mark Starr, M.D.
  • Thyroid Power by Dr. Richard Shames, M.D.

Q: Where can I go online to find out more?

A: Go to:

  • http://www.brodabarnes.org
  • http://thyroid.about.com/

Q: Are there any additional lab tests that I do if I have a low thyroid?

A: Tests include:

  • Adrenal Stress Index
  • Heavy Metal Testing
  • Testing for Thyroid Antibodies