Mark's Blog

That's your opinion. Based upon my own observations, I would say that it
is a little high but not too far off the mark.
"Which alcoholic beverages are safe?
Wine, rum, tequila, and sake are usually safe as their alcohols do not
generally come from toxic grains. Some vodkas are also okay. However, as
with any other ingested product, you should gauge your reaction and learn
as much about your favored brands as possible.
Grain alcohols are one of those controversial items. While the distillation
process should leave no room for glutens to wind up in the end product,
many celiacs do report problems with ingestion. (One theory is that some of
the original "mash" may be added back in at the end of the process for
flavor. This is worth researching with the manufacturer of your favorite
product.)
Many liquors are made with grain alcohol and so may be suspect. Whiskey,
bourbon, gin and rye are definitely off the list, since they are made with
rye and barley. Beer, too, must be avoided, since malt (usually from
barley) is an ingredient. Even rice beers use malt." -
http://www.celiac.com/frequent.html
Note the word 'many'.
I have terrible trouble with most alcohol. I only drink wine now, and even
that makes me itch.
It is a source, it was not meant to be impressive, it was meant to be
informative. I make no judgements when I post quotations, I leave that up
to the subjective opinion of the reader.
I'm not disagreeing with you, but you were the one who stated that there is
no evidence that caffeine has any negative effect on thyroid function. I
was simply quoting information which disagreed with your opinion.
Katrina.

You can also set your preferences to daily digest at the home page.

Karen, I really identify with your statements in your last paragraph
that you feel like you lost a part of yourself.
What lead you to be tested for hypothyroid? And what were your worst
symptoms, other than being terribly ill, and sounds like a weight
gain was involved too.
Lee

http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp.

Hi,
You have reason to be concerned about soy! It is
responsible for the
thyroid problems I have at present.
Some experts say not to take in more than the
equivalent of 5 oz. of
soy milk per day. I am trying to take in the
equivalent of 0 oz. of soy per
day, but, like you said, it is hard to find products
that don't have any!
I am a diabetic, and this is like the problem many of
us have of trying to
find foods that don't have sugar in them.
Jim

Oh, in class, we always did the cardio, (step, floor, etc.) first, then
did weights, then stretch. I loved it, but couldn't afford the gym
anymore, so I do the ol treadmill at home when I am not so darned
fatigued, which is not nearly enough, LOL. After 3 days of not
exercising you begin to lose the mucsle you have built up I was always
told, so I am always starting over, lol. thanks
PS I HATE situps!!!
Love and take care,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

Hi,
I noticed a person asked to be unsubscribed today due
to receiving
more messages than she could handle.
I certainly understand this, because I receive 50-60
messages a day.
One thing that would make it easier is for people in
this group to put
headings on their messages that tell what the message
is actually about.
Yesterday, I opened about 6-8 message that had a
heading about
something I was interested in to find that they had
nothing to do with
the heading. Some people are just replying to
messages without
changing the headings to reflect what their new
message is about.
That way, people like those of us who get 50-60-70
messages a day
can simply delete messages they probably wouldn't be
interested in and
make sure to read those with messages they would be
interested in.
Otherwise, a lot of us spend A LOT of time opening and
reading messages
that hold very little interest to us, because they do
not relate to our problem
at present.
Think if you picked up a newspaper and saw a headline
that said, "Government
to give each taxpayer $1,000!" Then, you began to
read the article and
found that it was about something entirely different
and had nothing to do with
the government giving back money.
Please consider posting messages with accurate
headings. Thanks!
Jim

Celeste,
Is the ol' saying still true, that you need to keep your heartrate up
for at least 20 minutes before you start to burn fat? In my aerobics,
etc. classes a few years ago, that was the rule. ;))
Love and take care,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

NOT MUCH!
vaccines are not necessary for good health, and in fact create health
problems
Canada has exemptions for school entrance/work requirements and so does
the US
Kathy

Hi Everyone,
I've started having chest pains and some numbness in my hands and feet.
It's different than the Raynaud's disease. I went to the hosp. almost 2
weeks ago thinking maybe I was having a stroke or something because it
was also occupied by dizziness. They did a cat scan, chest x rays, and
EKG. They all came out fine. The dizziness is for the most part gone
now, but I still have numbness and chest pains. Does any of this sound
like thyroid symptoms? I do have goiters, but my blood work always comes
back in the normal ranges.
Thanks!!!!!
Liz

I am going to miss all of you but please unsubscribe3 me I can't keep up
with my mail.
Good Luck!
Karen T.
=====

Maria,
If you use weights for abdominal exercise then your waist will
probably get bigger . . . unless you are doing a lot of
cardiovascular exercise. Pilates is great for strenghtening your core
and preparing you to do other forms of exercise, but it has little or
no cardiovascular benefit. What forms of cardiovascular exercise do
you do? In order to burn fat you need to do both some form of
exercise that builds muscle (such as calisthenics or weight training)
AND some form of cardiovascular exercise (walk, run, bike, swim,
etc.) regularly.
Best wishes,
Celeste

Hi guys,
I HATE to hit a deadhorse over the head but.............
about this soy thing...............
I went to get some mayonnaise today and started looking at the
ingredients - 1st one. I then went to look at pasta- in there too but
not as high on the list!!! What is the love with soy???
Now, my question is this:
My levels have balanced out. Can I have ANY soy at all? If so, how
much. When you look at labels, how far down on the ingredients list
does it have to be to be "safe" for me to eat any of it?
Thanks again guys/gals,
Renee P.

"My personal opinion is that we start down the road to poor health in
childhood if we are not breast fed, then get vaccinations that knock out
immune system and start on antibiotics which sets us up for allergies.
Then add junk food. We are creating disease in our children and pets with
this dysfunctional, profit oriented system."
Gracia,
Nicely said!!! This leaves me with a question - what do all of you think
about child vaccination?
Karen

I have lost weight, and still need to lose more - all in my belly. I am
beginning to think this is a glucose problem. My docs are working on it,
but was wondering if anyone else had this problem and what you did/do about
it. My arms, and legs are thin, but I have about 40lbs more to lose and 35
would be located in my belly. Any suggestions for exercises - do I use
weights for ab exercises?. I have been doing Pilates for 3 months AND my
waist hasn't budged. My weight is at a stand still btw. and has been for
over 2 months.
.

When I was 15 I was pregnant and shortly after my
pregnancy I would gain weight (I thought this was
normal thought nothing of it) It wouldn't be until 5
years later when I would be pregnant again and gain 40
pounds in two weeks after the birth of my second
daughter. With the history of Thyroid in my family I
have decided to have my daughters checked.. one which
will be 17 next week and the other 12. Unfortunately
my 17 year old does have the disease..... I think she
said to me "GREAT! I am going to be like this the rest
of my life" I said NO--you won't be overweight, you
just have to modify and exercise. (which she gets
hardly any) Coming to the group I have learned some
new things-and have met some wonderful people. I
think with this type of problem we all share it is
reaffirming to know that we are NOT crazy individuals,
our symptoms are real and what we feel is real.
The lowest my TSH was was -150 at that point 2 years
ago I would have major brain fog and sound like I was
drunk...(I don't drink)
Right now I think I am near normal and striving to
lose weight. I walk 20 something miles a week and do
cardio-exercise.
I have lost inches but not pounds- I still weigh 240
but I wear the same size as when I was 200. (to be a
size 12 again!!!) Ya know.
Take care and have a great day.......
Wendy
Memphis, TN

Karren and everyone.... this is my story
I first started recieving symptons of hypothyroidism at the age of
14. My eyes would twitch at weeks at a time and Carpel Tunnel Syndrom
was a problem too. One night I was complaining because my muscles had
tightened up so bad that I wasn't able to stand or walk, my chest and
throut were on fire. I was taken to the hospital and released, a sort
of hyperventaliation they said, but I knew that something was wrong. I
contined to have smaller episodes about 3 times a year but was able to
control it somehow. I lived on a dairy where milk flowed freely. And
later learned that Calcite minerals flowed into our water wells. So
nothing big or major happend after that or was not too much to make a
big deal of. later in High school I wasn't able to do some of the
activites I use to do with the school because I couldn't think or
didn't feel like it. I think of it and just wanna cry, because I
thought that it was all normal for a teenager to feel this way, how was
I supposed to know!!!!!! I went to college for four years and
everything just went to hell. I got tired very easily, I knew somehow
my body was not functioning but thought it was normal, I coundn't
think, and was afraid to open up to anyone because of my speech
imparement(stuttering) which is even worse with hypoT. I went to the
Health center on Campus many times because I was complaining of
digestive problems. Then around the same time y ou found out Karren,
In October of 2001. My hands started tightening up(clenched like a
fist) along with all the twitching, carpel tunnel, and brain fog and
numb-burning chest. I finally decided that something was wrong. I
had a blood test and found out that I had Idiopathic(unknown cause)
Hypothyroidism. I have gained a ton of weight in college, and I am
going through the exact same thing as you Karren, I was happy to see
that I could think again, and in all this, a new life was ahead and
didn't know what to think of it. I don't know how to concieve of it.
My friends, family, everyone I know...How do I explain to them that I'm
a different guy now when they percieve of me as a someone who wasn't
able to handle any tasks and was too afraid. It's hard to think about
it, and I will admit, It hit me hard, even thought of Suicide a couple
times. I am rediscoving my self with a whole new perspective, but
didn't know where to start. Like I have been awakened from a neverending
nightmare, but how am I to survive in a World that I am not used to. My
blood tests have been low on Calcium every single month since my
diagnosis and have been faithfull to my Calcium pills. I also think I
may need therapy as you do Karren. It's really nice to hear someone
going through the same things as I am. Some one who understands. Thank
you for sharing. God Bless.
Daniel Hilt

What is it and what foods have gluten in it?
Daniel

Hello,
I have a dear friend with celiac disease and have done much research (and
cooking) for her. In her case, her sensitivity is to gliaden, a microscopic
portion of gluten and it IS in alcohol if made from wheat. She has great
difficulty with extracts because it's difficult to track down the original
source of alcohol. Distilled vinegar is the same problem...The Celiac Sprue
Assn has lots of info.
By the way, her thyroid levels and basal temp are fine.
SaraLou

May I add to drink LOTS of water before, during and after workouts, and
after cardio workouts, cool down slowly, (slow walk, etc. to bring
heartbeat down slowly.)
Love and take care,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

Has anyone noticed any bloating from the Cytomel or
Armour in your face? Just wondering. Also has anyone
here taking Nystatin pills to get rid of Candida? Thanks.

My sister diagnosed at 15 yo; me, diagnosed at 11 yo.We're now 63 and 74yo.
Ann

Daniel,
I have a friend who ended up in the hospital due to a dosage error.
She is hypothyroid and her doctor mistakenly prescribed too high a
dose of levothyroxine for her. She went into convulsions and had to
be taken to the hospital where she was treated and released. She had
just gotten into her car but had not yet started it when she started
her seizure. I haven't heard about anyone who died, but this episode
was scary enough. She was my co-worker at the time.
Celeste

Good Morning!
I called the dentist to get my 7 yr old daughter in for some
cavities. The receptionist wanted to know if I wanted to have her
teeth cleaned as well. She mentioned that they'd use floride to
protect her teeth.
Now, I've been reading tons on how I, being Hypo, should stay away
from too much floride, put what about her? For her teeth? (she
doesn't have any thyroid problems...but since I do....??) she's had
bad baby teeth all along... what's the best thing to do?
There is just too much info out there for my over-tapped brain!
Thank you for your opinions,
~Amber

Hi Celeste, the new research implicates grain allergy with autoimmune
disease, not just celiac disease. Also,
"Undiagnosed sensitivities to certain grain proteins can be the route to
some veyr serious--even deadly--diseases including cancer, chronic pain,
psychiatric disorders, infertility, liver disease and osteoporosis.
from Jonathan Wright newsletter 3/02
My personal opinion is that we start down the road to poor health in
childhood if we are not breast fed, then get vaccinations that knock out
immune system and start on antibiotics which sets us up for allergies.
Then add junk food. We are creating disease in our children and pets with
this dysfunctional, profit oriented system.
Gracia

I have bought several times from vitaglo.com
One thing we use alot of is powdered sodium ascorbate, and they have
large containers of it.
If you order over $20, then the shipping is free in the US. I paid $5
for shipping since I live in Canada.
The prices are excellent, and they have a huge variety. You need to
know what you are looking for, as the site does not offer alot of info
on the products.
hth, Kathy
Do

Everyone,
I was wondering if anyone here was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism when
they were young. I'm only 23, but was diagnosed last year with the
disorder but have had the symptoms unknowingly since I was 15. Please
e-mail me back, it would be nice to have some one to relate in my age
group and discuss Hypothyroidism and how it has effected thier lives.
WeedaGuy

Hi folks,
Hope you don't mind me doing a little philosophizing
here.....
As I mentioned, I have an education in clinical
nutrition and I wrote a book
about men's health for a major publishing company back
in 1998. I
do know some things about these subjects, but I am
always open to
learning from other people and hearing the opinons of
others. That's
why I am in this group, because I have determined that
I have a thyroid
problem and want to learn everything I can learn from
others who have
the same problem.
I've been thinking about one person's point in this
group who said if she
took every supplement that was suggested here that she
would be taking
pills from sunup to sundown seven days a week.
This is a very legitimate point. I have been studying
in the field of holistic/
alternative/complementary/natural health and nutrition
for over 20 years.
And, especially in recent years since holistic health
has become more
popular, I often just shake my head at some of the
holistic health
"theories" that are presented as fact.
Nowadays, I tend to make my decisions based upon what
seems logical
and sensible to me. So, I guess you would say I tend
to gravitate towards
the more conservative side of holistic/natural health.
I am very much a believer
in supplementation with vitamins/minerals and herbs.
But I also want to know
that there is solid scientific research on each and
every supplement I take.
I am not a great fan of conventional medicine. There
is too much of a mentality:
"If we can't measure it or put it in a test tube, then
it can't and won't work." But
alternative/holistic medicine sometimes tends to be on
the other extreme. Often
outlandish and illogicial theories are presented as
scientific fact.
No wonder young people entering the medical profession
are reluctant to
look into alternative medicine. They see all of the
various and sundry theories
about alternative health that aren't backed up by any
scientific research
(or just plain logic) and decide to take the "safer"
route of mainstream
conventional medicine. That is too bad, but you really
can't blame them.
I advise people to buy the book by James Balch, M.D.,
called
"Prescription for Nutritional Healing" because his
recommendations are backed
by scientific research and are common-sensical. In
this book, Balch gives
recommendations of natural supplementation for a
variety of different
diseases and ailments and he also goes into great
depth to explain
how to safely use natural supplements.
There are other natural medicine experts of prominence
who I respect,
but none any more than Dr. Balch.
Jim

I have and LOVE that book!! ;)
Love and take care,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

Thank you.

Hi,
I would advise buying (or getting at the library) the
book "Prescription
for Nutritional Healing" by James Balch, M.D. It will
tell you everything
you need to know about supplements and doses.
Everyone needs different supplements according to a
variety of factors.
But nearly everyone can benefit by taking a basic
multi-vitamin and mineral
supplement. There are so many hundreds of brands out
there, I can't
recommend just one or two.
Jim

Yes, please do tell us from your point of view. Also, how does GNC
vitamins rate verses other? What name brands( Centrum verses Shakely)
which would be better? Is there a website(s) that have tested them,
if so, provide me with the list!!
Renee P.

Hi,
I have a college degree in clinical nutrition and I
buy most of my supplements
at Wal-Mart.
The companies that sell the more-expensive vitamins
and herbs always
say that theirs is far superior for this reason and
that reason.
But what most people don't know is that the same
supplements are made
by just a few labs in the U.S. So, quite often, the
product is exactly
the same but it has a different brand label on it -
one costing $4 and
other costing $12.
I do tend to gravitate towards the vitamins, minerals
and herbs that have
the LEAST amount of fillings and preservatives in
them. I also think that
the "natural" vitamins are probably advisable, but you
can buy them at
Wal-Mart, too.
In the health supplement business, more expensive is
not necessarily
better. Pus, nowadays there is almost as much
marketing "hype" in the
health food industry as in the pharmaceutical
industry.
My two cent's worth, anyway.
Jim

Hi there,
I read in the book Thyroid Power (page 38) that hypo
and hyper can indeed exist together. It is rare but
documented and it evan has a name..Hashitoxicosis. The
book says that people of have this condition feel
hyper one day and hypo the next...some describe it
feeling like one foot on the brake and the other on
the gas. Apparently Japanese doctors have had some
success using medications for both illnesses
simultaneously.
Hopes this helps.
Sandy

Hi There!!
I was hyper with graves disease.... I had the usual symptoms ... rapid
heart beat ... very easy to lose weight ... profuse sweating... I was given
the radiation pill and now I am hypo. I still have to get my eyes checked
every one since in a while ... Thank God I haven't had the pressure build up
yet. however my Physician told me that you can be symptom free then all of a
sudden it flares up.... It can take 20 years... I now take levox and lead a
normal life... :-)) If you have any specific questions feel free to email
me!! Take care!!!
Debbie

Deborah,
I think that "natural" is a buzzword that gets overused. Mostly it's
just a marketing term. Can you explain how a "natural" vitamin gets
absorbed or utilized any differently than one that's been
synthesized? They are chemically identical.
Celeste

Celeste,
Could you refresh my memory. I know you work out with
weights which I have decided to start doing twice a
week. First I wanted to know if you are also taking
any thyroid meds and Secondly do you have any good
training tips to get me started. I'm working with a
trainer but I would also like to here your ideas since
you are hypo also and feeling well. Thanks a bunch.
Melanie

Katrina,
If you're trying to say that this applies to all thyroid disease
patients then you are wrong. It states clearly on the web site (the
one you provided the link to) that this applies to celiac disease
patients only. You neglected to specify that.
Celeste

Celeste:
I had no need to point it out, you were the one saying that wheat and dairy
products have never been shown to have any negative effect on thyroid
function. I simply pointed out that they can affect thyroid function,
thereby proving your blanket "NO evidence" statement to be incorrect.
However, if you would like a figure from a scientific source:
"Recent research in our laboratory indicates that immune sensitivity to
gluten is exceedingly common, present in 30-40% of all Americans. " -
http://www.enterolab.com/
Does this mean that 30-40% of all Americans are producing anti-thyroid
antibodies? I don't know, but to state that there is no evidence that
wheat and dairy can harm thyroid function is irresponsible. By the way,
the majority of alcohol also contains gluten, so the alcohol statement is
also incorrect. That leaves caffeine. Oh no, hang on, that one is also
incorrect:
"Another contributor to an underactive thyroid for some individuals is
regular use of caffeine. Caffeine can slow the thyroid by suppressing the
production of cortisol, a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands which is
essential to thyroid function." - http://www.naturalhealthschool.com/12_4.html
So, let me rephrase your original statement:
"There IS evidence that dairy products, wheat, caffeine, and alcohol can
have a negative effect on thyroid function"
Kat.

Renee you said that you take a supplement from Wallmart's brand the
Spring Valley Group. Several people have told me recently that the
Wallmart brands are some of the worst brands of vitamins because they
are not all natural. Because they are chemical's rather than herbal
substances that our bodies will not be able to currently utilize the
elements in the supplements. So...
We have been slowly using up the Spring Valley stuff and trying to
substitute from the health food store. But the cost difference is
enormous. What are all of your opinions about the quality of
supplements? What are the best for the money and how do you buy them? Do
any of you shop over the internet? Or does shipping eat up any savings?
I have been out to "shop" and the number of sites is overwhelming, the
products grouped together in every concentration and with every type of
claim. Help.
Blessings,
Deborah

While there is plenty of scientific evidence showing that broccoli,
cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, spinach, turnips,
soybeans, peanuts, linseed, pinenuts, millet, cassava, and mustard
greens inhibit thyroid hormone utilization, there is NO evidence for
dairy products, wheat, caffeine, nor alcohol having any negative
effect on thyroid function.
Celeste
(who happily ingests dairy products, wheat, caffeine, and alcohol on
an almost daily basis while enjoying better than average health)

No, this is not true. Calcium can interfere with absorption of
thyroid medications if taken too close to the time the meds are
taken, but calcium is not bad for the thyroid.
Celeste

How I do know how you feel, not being able to do things functionally,
and not being able to think normally, Foggy thinking, when the only
comfort is sleeping. The worst part is not being able to make the
family and friends understand the condition you have, ........it's not
my fault I act this way......please understand, don't leave me behind.
I have changed....you see. It is so hard, so hard, I can't rest...

In a message dated 4/30/2002 8:18:31 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
john.codling@... writes:
Hi John,
Here's a little info to get you started:
"The body temperature is in large part regulated by the thyroid hormone
system. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to produce Thyroid
Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4
(thyroxine) which is the raw material or precursor used to make the active
thyroid hormone T3. T4 is also converted to RT3 (reverse T3) which is
physiologically inactive.
"T4 is not the physiologically active hormone and needs to be converted by an
enzyme called 5' deiodinase to become the active hormone T3, or
liothyroinine. At least 80% of the body's daily production of T3 is produced
in this way, not in the thyroid gland, but in the tissues of the body (liver,
kidney, etc.).
"T3 is the physiologically active thyroid hormone and is four times more
potent and three times shorter-acting than T4. T3 is what goes to all the
cells in the body and tells them how fast to operate, and that determines the
body temperature. 5' deiodinase has two jobs. It converts T4 to T3 and it
converts RT3 to T2. 5' deiodinase (as opposed to 5' deiodinase) is the
enzyme that converts T3 to RT3.
Doctor's Manual for Wilson's Thyroid Syndrome, 4th Ed., pp 20-22

John,
When I talk about "brain fog" it is a feeling of just
kind of being disconnected,
or "spaced out."
Here's what I tell people: It's the feeling you would
have mentally if you
stayed up all night working and then went to sleep for
one hour. Then,
someone woke you up. That would be a "brain fog"
experience.
Immunity - now that has become my BIGGEST problem
since October.
All this winter, I have been sick with SOMETHING.
I've had numerous
sinus infections and bronchitis and three or four
intestinal viruses. As I
write, I have a bad head and chest cold. The longest
stretch of time that
I haven't had a virus this winter has been one week!
If you get the chance, tell me more about your
immunity problems, John.
There are not a lot of men who visit these thyroid
boards.
Best regards, Jim

Did you say avoid wheat?

I always thought that my stomach bloating was due to water retention from
hypothyroidism. After a few months of treatment, my clothes fit me again,
my belly was smaller, and the swelling went away in my face, but weirdly
enough, I did not lose weight.
Karen

Hi bianca,
I finally found it. It was very interesting and I
liked the dude on the opening page...yummy!
Sandy
--- bianca von Mueller <bianca_vonmueller@...

Guys, I am new to this board, I am having big troubles with taking Thyroxin.
Can somebody let me know what t4 does in you rbody and what t3 does.
I think I may have a problem with making T3. I have no Thyroid and dependant on
T4. At one of my Blood test my TSH was 2.5 and my free t3 was either 3.5 or 4.5
cant remember.
Many thanks John C
**********************************************************************
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If you are not the intended recipient, please advise the sender immediately
by reply e-mail and delete this message and any attachments
without retaining a copy.
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I've been taking liquid "Magonate". It really helped me. In the past, for
years, I had trouble with uncontrolable coughing. My coughing was really
terrible. My eyes would water, my face would turn red, I couldn't talk, people
thought I was choking. I've taken various medications prescribed by doctors
from nose sprays to asthma inhalers. I was diagnosed with some type of
breathing problem, similiar to asthma, but not true asthma. I still carry cough
drops with me. My throat still feels very dry & on the verge of coughing. But,
since I've used the Magonate, I haven't had any major episodes. I started out
using 2 tsps./3 times a day. Now, I just use 2 tsp. in the morning. I've heard
that the liquid works better than the tablets. Also, my doctor had me stop
taking calcium supplements. He said it would interfere with the Magnesium
absorption. I'm not really sure about that. But, I haven't done any research
into it.
Wendy

Jim I would be very happy if you would expand on the sentence below. this is how
I feel. The brain fog is sometime like an empty box or I cannot digest things.
Fatigue I understand and go you go into depth Immunity.
Thanks
John C
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If you are not the intended recipient, please advise the sender immediately
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without retaining a copy.
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Thanks Jim!
I've copied that.
I hope you get to feeling better the next 2 1/2 months, the FATIQUE
is the worst.
Lee

Hi Lee and others,
You asked me about taking the glandular. I have only
been taking it a couple
of weeks. I think it is helping a little, but I have
been told it takes three months
or more to make major differences. I take one tablet
twice a day of the
Nutri-Med thyroid glandular. I also take one adrenal
glandular tablet per day.
To be honest, I don't know what has been helping -
just getting off soy
products completely (whch I believe caused my thyroid
problems); taking
the supplements; or both. My temperature is up about
1-2 degrees, I
am no longer gaining weight and the bloating has
decreased. Those are
the good signs. But I still have terrible immunity,
fatigue and brain fog.
Jim

In a message dated 4/29/2002 4:58:22 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
ljs7788@... writes:
Hi Lee,
Welcome! Low body temp, especially that low, see info on Wilson's Thyroid
Syndrome which is a malfunction in the thyroid system's ability to convert T4
into T3. Also, the weight gain even on little food. And lots of other
symtoms you probably have but didn't mention. You'll find a list of symptoms
on this site: <A
HREF="www.wilsonsthyroidsyndrome.com"
I'm not sure a doc would be interested in your file from 1991. But
definitely look for a doctor who will treat you based on symptoms of
hypothyroidism not just the numbers on the TSH test.
Good luck!
Linda in LA

Hi Jim,
I always heard bloat was from food allergies. If you consider that
constipation is a symptom of hypothy then that might explain it???
have u lost weight since taking the glandular and what brand did you
take, and dose?
Lee

Does anyone here know anything about Magnesium
supplementation? Also, I was wondering if anyone had
any thoughts on whether or not taking an Alleve once a
day for muscle aches would slow down my thyroid
function. Thank you in advance for any comments you
might have.

Absolutely.
Low body temp is a symptom of hypothyrodism ...not
sure about hyper though.
Sandy

Hi,
I wonder if anyone knows if stomach bloating is a
symptom of hypothyroid?
Since I have been on natural thyroid glandular
supplement for the past few weeks,
the boating in my stomach has gone down quite a bit.
Prior to that, there were times when my stomach
bloated so much that I could
barely get my clothing on.
Any ideas? Jim

I tried it and it worked fine. You might try copying
the url and then pasting it into your web browser
instead of typing it in. Very interesting article...
-Bianca

My temp has ranged from 94 to 97 for the past 6 years, since my early
40's. In my 20's it was always 101 and high pulse, always difficult
to donate blood.
Is there really a correlation between body temp, hi or low, with
thyroid disease, i.e low temp hypo T's, would the converse be true, a
higher than normal temp for hyperthyroid?
Lee

condition we have is raw cabbage, califlower, kale, white flour
(pizza crust), white sugar, peanuts, soy products, and there are more
that you can find in "Living Well With Hypothyroidism". I was
diagnoised with this thyroid problem years ago and was treated with
Armour and never told about foods that are determental for us. I
thought I was cured since the dr. decided that my 97 degree temp.
even after treatment, was evidently normal for me. The very low
blood pressure still remains. I have been eating fresh cabbage and
califlower almost daily for years plus peanuts and was shocked to
discover in the last week that I had been unknowingly messing up my
health. After reading the symptoms on the internet, I had a huge
light bulb moment in regards to the why of my weight gain,
depression, foggy thinking,dry skin, etc. I saw on this web site
about over the counter thyroid help and bought some, quite eating the
foods daily that were not good for me and began to make me a power
drink in the morning that works wonders. 1 c. thawed orange juice
(not canned), 1 or 2 bananas, 1-2T flax seeds, 1-2 t. dried kelp
powder, and 1/2 c. fresh alfalfa sprouts. Put all in blender and
blend thouroly and drink. I take my over the counter thyroid helper
first thing in the morning becuse , then it will absorb better with
no compition with anything else. I know that each body works
differently but perhaps this info. will help others.

I just signed up tonight and posted a post but it got lost out in the
ozone. I am not "officially" diagnosed, but in 1991 was tested by
an endocrinologist who said my test results indicated I
was "probably" hypothyroid. He did not treat me, had also gained 15
lbs over just a few months with no explanation. I was there b/c my
eye during an eye exam said my eyes showed signs of Grave's Disease,
something I'm finding is related to being HYPER thryroid.
I have never been overweight in my life prior to 91 but my weight has
climbed another 81 lbs since 1991. I am getting ready to gear up to
see a doctor but I don't know what kind to see first. I have many
horrible symptoms, and tired of being accused as being "depressed" or
a hypochondriac. All my friends think I'm a closet eater, but not.
Has anyone in this group been HYPER at some point, then HYPO?
Have any women here suffered an early menopause or loss of menses due
to being hypothyroid? Any suggestions for the kind of dr to see?
Would it be good to have my 1991 endo file sent to the new doctor.
Thanks for any help or advice.
Lee

Hi Celeste,
I tried getting to the website you gave me for the
article but it keeps coming up as not existing.
Sandy

You know, it's funny........
I posted the same question on a Low Carb page and the moderator said
that Dr. Atkins said you could take up to 1,000 mcg's a day!!!!!!!!
I guess it's like bodybuilding/weightlifting - it all depends on the
point of view!
All I know is that I quit taking my selenium supplement( 100 ).
Renee P.

I have just begun my testing for my thyroid. My doctor has been
testing my blood for about a year now, and my TSH has been abnormally
low, while my Free T4 has remained normal. Finally after a year, I
talked my doctor into sending me to a specialist. (HMO of course!)
Upon having my first meeting with my endocrinologist, whom is also
treating my mother whom is Hypo (so was her mother, and her mother's
mother), my doctor seems to think I am both Hypo and Hyper. My test
results indicate I am Hyper, but my symptoms are all Hypo. Can
anyone help me make sense of this? Also, if anyone has had this same
experience, please let me know what I am in for.......Will I be
treated for Hypo or Hyper?
Any input is greatly appreciated!
Thanks

In a message dated 4/29/2002 9:50:37 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
spindrift_ali@... writes:
Hi again, Ali!
This is truly discouraging, isn't it! You've done exactly what you've been
told to do by the docs and yet you're not feeling well!
I experienced this same situation; I actually felt worse on the T4! And then
my doc also wanted to reduce my medicine when my blood tests came back as low
as yours!
In my opinion, a different answer and a different treatment is on order for
you to help you feel well again. First of all, your doc CAN'T just treat
according to the TSH test! As you can already attest, it is pure tyranny
against you to do so! You need to find a doctor who has better clinical
skills than that who will treat you based on your SYMPTOMS not on your tests.
There are many conditions doctors treat every day that don't have blood
tests to prove they exist, Parkinson's is one, for example. Yet doctors give
medicine all the time for those conditions based on their symptom profile!
Why not hypothyroidism?
For me, I got great help from a doctor who treats me for Wilson's Thyroid
Syndrome. <A
HREF="www.wilsonsthyroidsyndrome.com"
are other approaches such as
the Broda Barnes people and the Shames', whom you can read about and find
links to on thyroid.about.com. <A
HREF="www.thyroid.about.com"
It sounds to me like you're trying to tell yourself something when you wonder
if you should call the two other top docs near you. It definitely wouldn't
hurt to give their offices a call and ask it they are open to treating you
clinically i.e., based on your symptoms, rather than based on your TSH test.
If one or both of them is, then GO! And get well! If you get there and they
start backpedaling on their promises, keep moving until you find a doctor who
has more than T4 and a blood test up his/her sleeve to help you.
Best of luck!
Linda in LA

Sandy,
Yes. Bodybuilders have known about this effect for as long as I've
been doing it (almost a few decades) and probably longer. There are a
host of products available to try to counter this effect, but I think
it's just better to avoid long-term carb depletion. If you'd like to
read one article that talks about this a bit (along with a lot more
discussion about thyroid hormones and how they are produced) please
take a look at www.t-mag.com/articles/152thy.html .
Best wishes for great health,
Celeste

Some of you may remember my earlier post where I needed to vent
following an appointment for my blood test. Well I got my results
today.
My TSH was 0.03, the previous test it was 0.05 but I feel ten times
worse and a lot of my symptoms have returned. I have been taking
100mcg of levothyroxine sodium and despite me telling the doc all
about my returning symtoms from which I had been free of for a brief
time, she decreased my thyroxine to 75mcg because of my TSH result.
She told me to come back in 6 weeks for review just from a symptoms
point of view not a blood test as ahe wants the blood test in 3
months not 2. She also suggested checking Thyroid Antibodies on the
next blood test if I felt no better, not quite sure what test that is
(is it the T3?) or what they can do for me if the level is out. She
is also reluctant to refer me to an Endo consultant. I noticed on the
top docs list there are 2 docs within a short train journey of me so
if it comes to it I could see if they can see me.
I cannot say I am happy with the outcome of my review but just
thought those of you who kindly answered my last post with
suggestions, would like to know how I got on.
thanks
Ali

Hi..In regards to foods best not consumed...listed in books for the condition we
have is raw cabbage, califlower, kale, white flour (pizza crust), white sugar,
peanuts, soy products, and there are more that you can find in "Living Well With
Hypothyroidism". I was diagnoised with this thyroid problem years ago and was
treated with Armour and never told about foods that are determental for us. I
thought I was cured since the dr. decided that my 97 degree temp. even after
treatment, was evidently normal for me. The very low blood pressure still
remains. I have been eating fresh cabbage and califlower almost daily for years
plus peanuts and was shocked to discover in the last week that I had been
unknowingly messing up my health. After reading the symptoms on the internet, I
had a huge light bulb moment in regards to the why of my weight gain,
depression, foggy thinking,dry skin, etc. I saw on this web site about over the
counter thyroid help and bought some, quite eating the foods daily that were not
good for me and began to make me a power drink in the morning that works
wonders. 1 c. thawed orange juice (not canned), 1 or 2 bananas, 1-2T flax
seeds, 1-2 t. dried kelp powder, and 1/2 c. fresh alfalfa sprouts. Put all in
blender and blend thouroly and drink. I take my over the counter thyroid helper
first thing in the morning becuse , then it will absorb better with no compition
with anything else. I know that each body works differently but perhaps this
info. will help others.

Or you can subscribe by going to the page:

Renee,
I also, have read NOT to take more than 200mgs day of Selenium by
several healthfood store clerks/owners. ;)
Love and take care,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

I read in the Eades book of Protein Power that the MOST the body
needs of Selenium is 200 mg a day. However, this is ONLY if you are a
vegetarian. If you eat meat, you only need to supplement 100 a day.
If you do too much, selenium can be toxic.
Anyone else read this? I'm thinking about posting it on the "about"
page so that the pill-happy people can stop taking so much for their
hypothyroidism. Being on a low-carbo diet, I'm SURE I'm eating enough
meat so I quit taking my extra 100.
Renee P.

I would pass this along to the "about" page or directly with Mary
Shomon. VERY interesting because that is one of the things she
promotes ( green tea )
Renee P.

Hi there,
Do you know where there is any info regarding carb
reduction and hypo?
Sandy

Hi Fred,
Are you still on 3 grains Armour without need to increase? Please keep
us up on that, as it seems you are like me, (body builds tolerance to
meds?). I am having a hard time losing weight also. Exercising some,
cutting back foods, etc. Wonder if others on Armour are having the same
problem vs other meds for hypo? Will get blood test in a week and go
back to endo to see if he thinks I need Cytomel. I heard now, that
others don't lose weight on Cytomel, but other symptoms it helps. Jeez,
I lost almot 10 pounds, and gained it back without doing anything
different. Well, you take care and keep me posted if you would. Thanks
Fred. ;)
Love and take care,
Reneé and Jerry
rja86@...

Hi all,
I got this message from the company that I buy thyroid
glandular from.
I have never heard anything like this before, so I
don't know what to think.
Jim
"This may be some of the most valuable information you
will ever read. Just when you thought you were doing
something healthy, you are about to find that you have
been seriously misled. Please don't disregard this,
our
research shows that it is very serious business.
In this Health Alert newsletter we expose the major
thyroid and cancer dangers of green tea and fluoride.
Could this be the cause of your health problems or low
thyroid condition? Interestingly, 80 percent of homes
in the United States have green or black tea in their
kitchen cupboards, which closely parallels the high
incidence of thyroid problems many experts are seeing
in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, and many other
countries where widespread use is common. Green and
black tea contain extremely high levels of fluoride.
Did you know that when people quit using tea and/or
move away from areas with fluoridated water, thyroid
disorders often are alleviated? This entire situation
is part of massive industry coverups. Very extensive
medical research in our database proves that green
tea,
black tea, and fluoride are responsible for serious
health problems. This includes many thyroid related
disorders, hypothyroidism (low thyroid), and also
cancer, neurological disorders, perinatal death, Downs
syndrome, and dental fluorosis or fluoride poisoning.
They may also be implicated in Alzheimers disease.
Learn why these heavily promoted "health products" are
really substances with deadly consequences..."

Who are from the channel isles. I was trying to scource a product like this.
WEll done
Anne UK

No I was not meaning that this site was related to yoga, just that the programm
will give the equivalent effects of eastern or any forms of meditation, without
years of struggle.
Thanks anne

I have a couple of questions- First being does b12 make you have more energy,
and for how long?
Second question-have any of you all tried it?
Thanks
Memphis Wendy

Hi,
First I want to say that this group is a good one and
I am sure very helpful
to a lot of people. I would not in any way encourage
anyone to leave this
group and I am remaining in it.
I have started a new group for people interested in
exploring "subclinical"
hypothyroid or "low thyroid function" in a little bit
greater depth.
This is the type of hypothyroidism that is often not
detected by conventional
doctors and with conventional blood tests. However,
many medical experts
believe this type of hypothyroidism to be almost
epidemic due to exposures
to chemicals, flouride in drinking water, overuse of
soy products and other factors.
There were problems getting the group started, but

Hi John--what is A/fib? Atrial fibrillation? From what I have read atrial
fib is fixed by thyroid, cod liver oil, and B vitamins (esp B1). Have you
tried cod liver oil and B vitamins? Such a shame that your thyroid was
removed, which compounds health problems. Sounds like a lawsuit. Some of
the UK thyroid people talk about Dr. Hembry.
Your tsh is really too high. Do you have a ref. range for free T3? There
is hypo-allergenic natural thyroid like Armour called bio-throid, available
from Channel Islands www.smart-drugs.net click on low thyroid. I don't
think they will ship to England so your doc would have to get it for you.
Maybe you are simply being seriously undertreated. I think the Armour or
bio-throid is best, especially if you have no thyroid gland. You might
have to find what dose you feel best on, ignore tests, definately get cod
liver oil and Bs (both important for mental health). When I was on too
little Armour thyroid, I felt rather insane. Have you had your adrenals
tested?
Gracia
details of this ). I was put on Amiodarone and due to this nice little drug
I had my Thyroid removed in October 1999. After being put on Thyroxin I
found that I become very sensitive and my smell and taste were amplified.
This sort of settled down as at this time I was on some powerful heart drugs
these have all now been stooped as My heart has been fixed.
right lung became very itchy and I was unable to breathe. I was on Cox
Thyroxin and now changed to Eltroxin.I changed brands of Thyroxin and to my
amazement all my chest and hypersensitive went. Then a month into the drug I
found I started having cramps in my calves, my eyes went out of Focus, I had
colds up colds and felt very cold. My wife remarked that in Bed I was like a
block of ice. My neck and all my muscles became very stiff. I am became very
depressed, I have never suffered with this before.
must be the trauma of my heart not working correctly for 6 years now the
shoock of it working fine is ok.
on this but not brilliant. MY T4 stayed the same but my t3 went to 14.5 and
my heart rate shot up.
worried I may do something that is not normal. Its really strange when on
this drug my Head goes empty I am like a Zombie
normal dose of Eltroxin a 1/4 grain of Armour and felt a lot better in the
head after about an hour.
I am think that my t3 is not being converted from t4. I had a blood test
some weeks ago and where I had up the dose myself, my TSH was 2.5 and my
free t3 was 3.5.

On March 18 my tsh was 6.98 I had another test down a
week ago and I am now .04 and my free t4 is 20. The
doc has taken me off meds and ask me to come in for
another test in 2 weeks. I feel really, really good
right now and I don't want to go back to depression
and no energy. I just started feeling better this past
week!
Anybody out there have the same thing happen?
Sandy

In a message dated 4/26/2002 7:39:29 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
wendy_mcvay@... writes:
Wendy,
The one I learned the most from is the "Doctor's Manual for Wilson's Thyroid
Syndrome." It is very user friendly on the lay person's level. He explains
everything with drawings and step-at-a-time spelling out of information. He
also gives tons of analogies that match everyday experience, not from a
doctor's world but from the world of a person trying to build up a wooden
floor to reach a buzzer on the wall with a pole for example. I would
recommend it as a must-read by anyone who wants a good alternative view to
non-traditional thyroid treatment.
I did this during my years of normal TSH tests but still having signs of
subclinical hypothyroidism. I had one doctor put me on Armour thyroid in
spite of my tests which made no difference in how I felt. At the time he put
me on the medicine he told me its purpose was to "kill" my thyroid! That was
the exact word he used! I really freaked at that characterization and I did
NOT want my thyroid gland to die as he told me it would. So, when the
medicine didn't help me feel better, I weaned off it and spent many years
using the health food store raw glandulars. I told myself I was fine.
Tired, but fine. Whenever I had the thyroid sore throat I took it as
metaphor I needed to speak up more for myself. I would do that and sometimes
the sore throat would diminish and I'd think I'd licked hypothyroidism!
Now, that I'm back on regular medicine, I know for sure I wasn't fine nor was
I beating my condition. But only because I feel so terrific now. I realize
I had no idea then that I was in reality only scraping by. Maybe it can be
done--healing hypothyroidism without thyroid drugs--but I know I wasn't able
to do it.
Sorry to sound discouraging. Surely, someone else here has had more success
with this approach than I did.
Linda in LA

Hi Every body I am new to this board.
I need some ideas tips and some support please.
I am 50 and live in the UK. In 1995 I contracted A/fib,(wont go into the details
of this ). I was put on Amiodarone and due to this nice little drug I had my
Thyroid removed in October 1999. After being put on Thyroxin I found that I
become very sensitive and my smell and taste were amplified. This sort of
settled down as at this time I was on some powerful heart drugs these have all
now been stooped as My heart has been fixed.
I noticed late last year that I was having a bad time with my Asthma, my right
lung became very itchy and I was unable to breathe. I was on Cox Thyroxin and
now changed to Eltroxin.I changed brands of Thyroxin and to my amazement all my
chest and hypersensitive went. Then a month into the drug I found I started
having cramps in my calves, my eyes went out of Focus, I had colds up colds and
felt very cold. My wife remarked that in Bed I was like a block of ice. My neck
and all my muscles became very stiff. I am became very depressed, I have never
suffered with this before.
I went along to my GP who informed me this sounds like Hypo thyroids but to my
amazement the bloods came back normal.
I went all the round of the Hospital they tried everything and said it must be
the trauma of my heart not working correctly for 6 years now the shoock of it
working fine is ok.
I ended up finding a Dr who put me on Armour, I felt a lilttle bit better on
this but not brilliant. MY T4 stayed the same but my t3 went to 14.5 and my
heart rate shot up.
I was not happy abut being reliant on a drug that Is not easily available here.
So Now I H ave seen a Prof. who seems very good, he want me to remain on
Eltroxin for three weeks and see what the blood test looks like.
My problems is I become very depressed , near a danger level and I am worried I
may do something that is not normal. Its really strange when on this drug my
Head goes empty I am like a Zombie
That was the first week after breaking down into tears I took on top of my
normal dose of Eltroxin a 1/4 grain of Armour and felt a lot better in the head
after about an hour.
Here are some question in for the group, if I may.
I have read that Thyroxin can cause Hyper sensitivity. if so what can be done
about this.
The Prof. tells me I may be sensitive to the carriers in the drugs has this been
noticed before and what can be done doubt his.
I get different systems with all the different brands here i.e.
Cox fine by my Asthma and sensitivity go out the window my skin gets excema on
the face and goes very dry.
Eltroxin depression, extreme tiredness, constipation, aches and very bad pains
in all muscles.
Norton I jut cannot breathe.
CP and APs my nose gets bunged and I cannot talk.
I cannot understand what is going on.
Is there a medication out there that is hypoallegic in its contents. also I am
think that my t3 is not being converted from t4. I had a blood test some weeks
ago and where I had up the dose myself, my TSH was 2.5 and my free t3 was 3.5.
Any help ideas support would be great I need to know what to ask at my next
consolation..
Best regards
John Codling
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Everyone:
What are the 2 books that you have found most helpful, dealing with
Hypo-thyroid? In what areas have they helped you the most? I want
to get a couple of books. But, I want to find the ones that are
easy to comprehend. I don't want a book that sounds like doctors
writing for each other. I'd never be able to read it. I have to
have something that is interesting & gets directly to the point. I
would also like to find a book that deals with alternative
treatments & practices. I'm still studying up on everything. I
want to find what's best for me. Have any of you taken thyroid
prescriptions & then gotten off the medicines & replaced them with
alternatives?? I'm considering all my options.
Wendy

I practice yoga. It's really helped a lot. It helps me relax. The breathing
exercises are extremely helpful. I've never been very athletic. So, some of the
poses are really difficult for me. But, I can definitely see benefits.
Wendy
Vanadeux <vanadeux@...
relief. Does anyone belonging to this group practice yoga?
We have just started the holosync programme. Its a wonderful technology that
enables deep states of relaxation and meditation to be achieved without years
and years of diligent practice. If you are interested have a look at
www.centerpointe.com
Good luck
Anne

To unsubscribe, send blank message to:

Also good for all round stress relief. Does anyone belonging to this group
practice yoga?
We have just started the holosync programme. Its a wonderful technology that
enables deep states of relaxation and meditation to be achieved without years
and years of diligent practice. If you are interested have a look at
www.centerpointe.com
Good luck
Anne

Hi everyone,
I was wondering if anyone knew if it was better to
take Armour (1 Grain) and Cytomel (25mg) together or
to spread it out? Thanks for any comments.
Melanie

I was convinced until recently that I had to stay on low carb plans but
for me they did not work I just started dreaming about bread and the whole
cycle would start over again.
I have found that as long as I am on my medicine I can lose weight on a
lowfat diet this does not mean jellybeans all day which is the way i used
to diet. This means lots of water, fruits and vegetables, a moderate
amount of protein, including a healthy selection of breads, potatoes, rice
and grains. I have been losing about two pounds a week. I try to eat
five to seven fruits and vegetables a day and at dinner I always have 100%
pure cranberry, orange or pineapple juice. If anyone has any tips for me
that could help me lose more quickly besides "Spamming" I would be
grateful although it seems to me that patience is going to have to be my
"lot" in life.
Karen T.
=====

Having Hashimoto's does not automatically make a person hypothyroid.
It depends on whether your thyroid gland is actually being damaged by
the antibodies or not. Most people with Hashi's do end up hypo, but
not all.
Best wishes,
Celeste
(who has had Hashi's for more than a few decades)

Renee,
I question the healthfulness of a low-carb diet. I think the best bet
is a balanced diet using low glycemic carbs.
Celeste

Have you tried taking guggul to banish cold feet? It sure does work
for me.
Celeste

Hi all,
2 questions:
(1) Any data out there that supports the idea that hypothyroid
individuals HAVE to do a low-carb diet? If so, let me know.
(2) I'm on Protein Power right now( hence the question above :-) ).
Anyone here ever tried Dr. Arnot's Diet Revolution? If so, can you
summarize what it is. I'm NEVER going to be able to finish this book
in 3 weeks( when it's due back to the library). If anyone could help,
that would be GREAT!
Thanks all!!
Renee P.

Hi Wendy (and others),

Hi Gracia (and others),

I think free T3 and free T4 are the only tests that matter. Treat the
symptoms, not the test!
Gracia

Hi,
I sent out a message earlier today about a new group I
have started on

Jim, sounds very interesting. I will join because I was untreated for 30
years after a partial thyroidectomy because my tests were "normal". How
insane is it to keep a person sick because of a test? have you seen
www.ithyroid.com ? It is alternative.
Gracia

Hi,
It seems that most of the people in this group are
dealing with hypothyrodism
that has been diagnosed by a doctor and that they are
being treated with
conventional drugs.
There are a few of us who don't fall into this
category. We have what
Dale Guyer, M.D, of Indianapolis, calls "sub-clincial
hypothyroidism"
or "Low Thyroid Syndrome."
Many of us have had thyroid blood tests that come back
with "normal"
results, even though we have virtually all of the
symptoms of hypothyroidism.
I thought it might be good for folks who fall into
that category to have a
discussion group, so I have started a "subclinical
hyperthyroidism" group on

Thank you everyone for your comments. Went to top Doc list. Found
one about 150 miles from me. Will see what I can do. Has everyone
had good luck with these Drs? I don't think I can handle another
negative one that thinks I am nuts. Thanks, Sheila

In a message dated 4/24/2002 7:00:09 AM Pacific Daylight Time, jabtb82@... writes:

Went to top Doc list. Found
one about 150 miles from me. Will see what I can do. Has everyone
had good luck with these Drs?

Hi Sheila!
I used the top doc list from Thyroid.about. I tried two docs from the list. The first one was indeed, very caring and was more than just a synthroid nazi. He had probably 40 years of experience with thyroid dysfunction. He helped me a lot getting stabilized when my TSH was actually out-of-bounds but he didn't know what to do with me when my TSH dropped to .7 in two months yet my hypo symptoms increased! So, I went back to the Top Doc list and found another doc who was also on the American Alternative Medical Practitioners list I found on the internet. The second doc is the one who told me about Wilson's Thyroid Syndrome and started treating me for it. Since then, I've been getting well.
I know how frustrating it can be when the doctor you've taken pains to look up and go out of your way for reaches the end of his scope with your condition. I would encourage you to ask questions, keep hold of the idea that there IS something in you that needs treating and you just need be your own best advocate long enough until you match up with someone who can put his or her finger on what that is. Also, I would encourage you to take a few minutes before going in to reflect back on a time when you did feel well (or if you've never had that experience, what you imagine it would feel like to feel well) and keep that feeling close to you as a goal to move toward when you are negotiating with a new doctor and going through his or her treatment plan. If after awhile you find you're moving toward that feeling, good job! If not, then you can re-evaluate at that time like I did and maybe you'll be ready to move on just one more step toward a practitioner who helps you restore
your health and well being.
Good luck! Let us know how your appointment goes!
Linda in LA

im not much sure about what those meds are but i do know that i was told not
to even take my thyroid meds before a test cause it can effect it - maybe
you could go for another test and try avoid taking meds for a few hours -
like 6 or so - anyone else know? im not accurate about this -

Hi all,
I've been doing some reading and it appears that even though your T4
and your TSH come back in good ranges, some can still have hypo
symptoms.
My doctor did say that he did see antibodies for Hashimotos. Does
this mean that I have Hash's or am hypo? Isn't there a difference?
My last readings were fine ( TSH= .97 and T4= 1.6) but I still get
very tired in the afternoon and my brain isn't all there either. My
periods haven't been messed up, however, I still don't have a sex
drive at all ( I don't think THIS is ever going to come back).
Should I go back and just get him to check my levels again OR should
I requests different tests? Maybe actual hormone level testing?
THoughts??
Renee

I am embarrassed to say but I have 5 of them!.
2 for the bedrooms, 1 in the living room, 1 in the
car...just in case my friends homes are freezing and
one I keep at my folks place. Too funny I know but hey
it works for me! LOL
Sandy

I have symptoms of hypothyroidism with the following test results:
tsh 2.4
t4 10.5
t3 uptake 31
3.2 t7
My doctor is one of those guys who says: "You'll be just fine" to all
questions. These results seem to be in the normal range to me, but
I'd like another opinion.
Thanks--

Hi
Unfortunately, thyroid blood tests are not particularly reliable - the best
ones are Free T3 and Free T4 in conjunction with TSH. You may have thyroid
antibodies (Hashimoto's Thyroiditis) or T4 to T3 conversion problems or just
plain clinical hypothyroidism. It is certainly possible to be hypo with a
TSH of 2.4
There has been a recent study which indicated that a person with a healthy
thyroid could be expected to have a TSH of +/- 1.5 (geometric mean) see
http://thyroid.about.com/library/news/blfeb02jcem.htm
There is lots more info on Mary Shomon's website
http://thyroid.about.com/mbody.htm as well as a message board. The people
there are very knowledgeable and very helpful - see
http://forums.about.com/ab-thyroid/start. And there is a list of Top Docs
http://thyroid.about.com/cs/doctors/ who are good at treating thyroid
problems. (If you live in the UK see www.thyroiduk.org which also has a list
of good doctors and lots of info)
I have (after many years) finally been diagnosed with Hashimoto's
Thyroiditis and Clinical Hypothyroidism. My TSH was 2.6, which is not a lot
different from yours. I got this diagnosis by paying privately to see a
doctor 200 miles away from where I live, but it was well worth it - I was
prescribed Armour thyroid which I have been taking for 12 days.
IMHO, if you have hypo symptoms with a TSH of 2.4 it is entirely possible
that you are hypothyroid. You need to read as much as you can and find a
good doctor who is willing to listen to you and treat your symptoms, not
your blood test. The following books have been very helpful to me - "The
Thyroid Solution" by Ridha Arem, "Living Well With Hypothyroidism - What
your doctor doesn't tell you. that you need to know" by Mary J Shomon and
"Solved: the Riddle of Illness" by Stephen E Langer
Hope this helps. Good luck
Sally

Dear Sheila,
I posted a message here a week ago that was very
similar to yours and
only got one response, so I don't think most people
here feel equipped to
comment on "undiagnosed" hypothyroid.
I will tell you what I have found in doing about 50
hours of research. You
probably do have hypothyroid, but the blood tests they
do are very
unreliable. Like you, I have all the symptoms and
hereditary (mother, sister)
and I have been told my blood test was "normal."
The doctors who really understand the tpe of problem
you and I have
fall under the category of "holistic, alternative,
complementary" and, in
some cases, "doctor of osteopathy."
Since my HMO insurance will not pay for any of these
doctors, I have been
forced to "self-diagnose" and "self-medicate" using a
natural cow thyroid
supplement. I would not recommend this to you or
anyone else who has
the ability to see an alternative type doctor. But
for me, it is my only
recourse. I have only been taking this a couple of
weeks. Overall, I do
not feel much better, but I have noticed my
temperature has risen 1-2
degrees, which is a good sign.
Try to get one of the books written by Steven Langer,
M.D. He is an
expert on the kinds of thyroid problems you and I
apparently have. They
can be purchased at most health food stores and you
may be able to
find one in your library.
Hope this helps, Jim

Hi,
If you have the kind of insurance that will pay for it
(I don't), I would suggest
seeing an "alternative, holistic, or complementary"
doctor. It's probably not
a good idea to "self-treat" thyroid problems without a
knowledgeable doctor's
guidance. But, as I have said, I don't have any other
choice but to go it alone.
Maybe that is your situation as well.
I have only been on this brand of thyroid supplement
for five days. I
don't notice any great improvement, but I have been
sick with an intestinal
virus for 1 1/2 weeks so it is hard to tell.
I took another brand for about two weeks and noticed a
small rise in my
temperature, but that was about it. A health food
store nutritionist suggested
this brand to me that I have been taking for five
days.
Let me know how you respond to the thyroid extract and
I'll keep you posted
on my condition.
Oh, by the way, speaking of foods. I'm pretty sure
that what hurt my thyroid
was eating large amounts of soy products. I am a
vegetarian and was eating
a LOT of soy hotdogs, hamburgers, etc. Now, even the
FDA is investigating
the soy-thyroid connection.
Best wishes, Jim

What kind of results have you had with the brand you are using? I still have not found that brand at any health food stores in my area so I bought a different brand hoping to get healthy results. I have read a lot about our condition and had no idea that the foods I was eating was contributing to the problem....peanuts and cabbage almost every day and I grow strawberrys and that was on the list too, plus peaches. Bummer! Woe is me.....no potatoes, tomatoes, rutabagoes, white flour, or sugar, and the previously mentioned foods, unless I want to self destruct and I don't. Oh well...who needs food anyway? thank you for your input. I'm glad to have found this group and to get the help and information that is available. When men go bald they can still look good but for a woman, it is a disaster.

Hi,
Yes, this is the company who makes what I take. I buy
mine at a local
privately owned health food store, but it can be
bought off the internet.
Jim

OK,
That made me giggle....who needs a man when you have
an electric blankie!!.

I have tried to find a local source for the thyroid suppliment you mentioned but have only seen it on the internet....it's from nutri-med, inc. is that where you bought it?

Ali,

You were absolutely right.

Check your prescription bottle for refills. They usually allow for months of refills. However, if you were just diagnosed in March you definitely need a recheck in 2 months so the nurse was WRONG. June is too long to wait. Until they know your levels have normalized they need to