Hypothyroid Remedies

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Erika (USA) on 12/16/2011

Wondering if anyone can help. I've been recently (2 wks ago) diagnosed as hypothyroid. My OB wanted to put me on Synthroid, but due to reading on this site (about fog brain and libido), I chose Armour Thyroid over that. She wasn't pleased to deal with it (as it is a pig's thyroid-OMGoodness! ;)), and said she didn't know how to prescribe it, but did it anyway and only prescribed 1/4 grain/day. I am considered borderline, but really for a younger woman of childbearing years (40), they'd actually like to see my numbers even lower.

I immediately started research here for natural healing and added coconut oil to my daily intake of food (about 1and 1/2 or 2 Tbsp/day). Also, 4 days ago, I found a kelp supplement w/ added folic acid and started that, 1/day. At the same time, I found Ashwaganda and a B-stress formula and started taking those 2x's a day. I've been unable to find the Guggul and the Bauhinia as of yet.

I also had started ACV (about 2Tbsp. + water +honey around 2x's a day) about a week before this diagnosis, as I had just found this website and read that it would help my asthma. Unbelievably, my asthma practically disappeared w/i 2 days. Weirdest thing I've ever seen! I have used my Xopenex inhaler 3times w/i the last 3 weeks, but only on the nights when I had neglected to take my ACV that day. Before that, I had been using it 3 to 4 times A DAY!, 2 puffs each time, and it was getting worse by the day! Oh, and I have OPed with Coconut Oil about 4 or 5 times during this time too (only once before my asthma went away though, so I attribute it's disappearance to the ACV, not the OP).

My husband made the comment to me yesterday that I seem to have gotten worse since being diagnosed. (I only started the Armour 2 mornings ago). I agree that I seem to be even more exhausted than normal and the only thing I can think of is that maybe I'm detoxing because of the OPing and the ACV, and the coconut oil in general? I would not be surprised in the least if I have a system wide Candida issue. I think I read somewhere about "die-off"? Can you explain this to me and tell me what I would need to do to help it along? It's Christmas of course, so it is not real probable for me to get off sugar until January. Even then, I will struggle tremendously. I am truly addicted to chocolate and crave a sweet (hot chocolate, cookies, cheesecake, hot fudge sundae, etc...) before going to bed at night. :(

Are there other things I could be doing for hypothyroidism that I am not currently doing? I find it difficult to get enough time on here to read everything as I have 3 children and am SO exhausted! Do I need to take more coconut oil than I am? More Kelp? More B? More herbs? Oh, and what is the difference between cold pressed and expeller pressed? Mine is from Radiant Life and is expeller pressed. Also, do I really have to take 2 days off the ACV every wk. to get it to work best? I'm concerned about my asthma coming back. I hate being dependent on the inhaler.

I know that I have more questions, but due to the fog brain, I can't remember them all. My memory is shot. I walk around all day knowing I'm supposed to be doing something, but can't remember what. Please help!

Hypothyroidism and Anemia

Posted by Dee (Australia) on 10/24/2014
★★★★★

Yes, both my mother and myself have iron deficiency anemia and we both have hypothyroidism too. We are taking tyrosine, selenium, iodine and black strap molasses and it is helping.

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Magda (Edinburgh, Uk) on 11/15/2011
★★★★★

Hi, I managed to cure my hypothyroidism naturally within 8 months. Previously I was on Levothyroxinum 50 mcg for 3 years but experienced some side effects and decided to stop my medication on my own in February. The beginning was very difficult. The herbal pills from China did not help much and in June my TSH was 7.0

Then I started taking MSM, L-tyrosine, mega doses of B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc, selenium, vitamin D3 (very important- 5000IU) Vitamin E. Everything in high doses. I also was drinking a lot of herbal teas like: nettle (for extra iron), horsetail, sage, liqurice root. I had a big glass of raw vegetable/fruit juice with ginger every day. I also consumed some chlorella, coconut oil, fish/evening primerose oil and bee pollen. I installed water filter to get rid of the fluoride in my drinking water and used chemical-free cosmetics and household products (no perfume as well) I consume only organic meat, raw cheese and do not drink any alcohol nor coffee and do not smoke. I walk 1-2 hours every day and use only cable internet and no wireless devices. (wireless and all x-rays are very bad for the thyroid) I reduced the use of my mobile phone. I removed all my amalgam fillings and do not eat tuna- too much mercury in there! ) I also tried liquid zeolites for a month and it gave me so much energy but had to discontinue it because of high price. This is a lot but certainly it worked because my TSH is 3.30 now and I am feeling much more better. If I do not take MSM I am losing my hair and if I do not take 300 mg of niacin a day I am getting nervous. I hope it will help. Regards, Magda

Iodine

Posted by Saoirse (Mason, Tx) on 04/17/2013

I truly wish I could go back in time when the hypothyroid was finally diagnosed and simply gotten a hold of some lugols or iodoral and started. Taking these synthroid, levoxyls whatever, has never ever made me feel better and I believe these synthetics simply put the thyroid into hibernation.

Iodine was the cure for both hyper/hypo and all this cautioning and hype /anti-iodine therapy has not helped the majority of those out here with thyroid irregularities. and this IS SIMPLY my humble opinion and you better believe THAT I AM sick and tired OF BEING sick and tired/

Will start the iodine and get through the inevitable detox symptoms etc and write back in a month. Do I have hasimoto's? I don't know and really don't care.

Funny, they're NOT concerned about synthroid stimulating more antibodies etc but with an organic substance that IS REQUIRED by the human body they ARE sooooooo cautious and condemning.

Iodine

Posted by Paula (Anon) on 09/14/2017
★★★★★

I was diagnosed with low thyroid. I have worked my way up to taking 15 drops of 12% solution of lugol's iodine, over the last 11 months. With all the the necessary supported supplements. I salt load twice a day. This has helped me a lot and got rid of most of my symptoms. I no longer needed to take NDT. Now I am getting aching joints, sleepless nights and low energy ( what I see as low thyroid symptoms, just like in the beginning. ) When I increase to 20 drops a day, I feel better, am I taking too much, I'm just a little concerned as to what the limit is on the amount of Lugols to take? Thank you in advance.

Iodine

Posted by Brooke (IL) on 11/03/2023

Are u still taking lugol's iodine to treat hypothyroidism?

I was just diagnosed @ 50yrs with hypothyroidism after yearly blood work but I have no symptoms. Dr sent levo thyroid RX to pharmacy & I have to go in for blood work in 2 weeks. I'm hoping to treat naturally as opposed to starting on medication DR said I'd have to take for LIFE.

I've started taking 1 tbsp ACV & 1 tbsp EVCO unrefined daily & I will know if it's helping after my blood work in 2 weeks. I'm not starting RX unless I absolutely have to. My Dr said there's NOWAY to treat hypothyroidism naturally only pharmaceutically! 🙄🙄🙄

I'm so sick of the majority of our healthcare professionals using pharmaceuticals for EVERYTHING. I changed our healthcare plan to a PPO so January 2024 we can begin seeing a naturopathic Dr.

Vitamin D

Posted by Wendy (Sacramento, Ca) on 02/26/2015
★★★★★

My doctor tried to put me on levothryoid for my hypo-thyroidism. I was allergic to it. So I went to a homeopathic dr., and he put me on 2 drops of emulsified vitamin D. When tested a couple of months later, my thyroid levels are now perfectly normal.

Charcoal

Posted by Ivy (Canada) on 04/14/2014

"Mama to Many" mentioned she wasn't worried about her water because she has well water. I got sick in 2000 with "fibromyalgia" and had a heavy metal test done and arsenic was high. My test said sources of arsenic were well water or run off from an orchard. Had my well water tested and there was arsenic in it, but the fluoride levels in the water were even worse. My 440 foot deep well had less than a grain of hardness (old well had 55 grains of hardness), so I never thought to get the water tested. Just because it is well water doesn't mean it is safe. Fluoride can be naturally occuring as well as heavy metals. The symptoms of fibromyalgia are the same as chronic fluoride poisoning:

http://www.life-enthusiast.com/fluoride-the-cause-of-fibromyalgia-a-3782.html

Ivy

Emu Oil

Posted by Toourlady89 (Hayward, Ca) on 04/23/2013
★★★★★

The soles of my feet hurt sometimes, I read that it could be one symptom of hypothyroid. I am hypothyroid. What I have found that helps my pain is Emu Oil. Rub to any painful areas really well. It goes deep into several layers of the skin, relieving pain. Also works for burns, sunburn, swollen joints etc. I carry it with me everywhere. Anyone with any itch, insect bites, painful gums, teeth or even for cleaning up, it works. Emu Oil is an Australian cure by the aborigines. It was introduced to me in US as a multi level marketing product. It now is in the mainstream so anyone has access. thru Amazon or Ebay.

B-5

Posted by Kathy (Dubois, Pa) on 09/22/2009
★★★★★

Well, I already made several posts on how I healed myself from hypothyroidism, which you can find if you go back through the older posts in this thread. As for the amount of B-5, at first I took 500mg 3 times per day. After I got to feeling better I cut back to 500mg twice per day, and now I take 500mg once per day. As far as the kind of salt, any kind of unrefined salt will do...either Celtic Sea Salt or that pink salt from Utah (sorry, its a brand name). I also think any kind of buffered Vitamin C (Calcium Ascorbate, Sodium Ascorbate, etc) will work. But don't forget, you have to work out your own dosages, which will be according to your own situation.

p.s. One really inexpensive way to get Sodium Ascorbate is to buy Ascorbic Acid Powder and mix it with Baking Soda (NOT baking powder). Put 1/2 teaspoonful of Ascorbic Acid Powder and 1/4 teaspoonful of Baking Soda in a cup. Add water and stir until it stops foaming. The Ascorbic Acid reacts with the Baking Soda to form Sodium Ascorbate, a buffered, highly absorbable form of Vitamin C.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Zani (Toronto, Ont) on 08/14/2012
★★★★★

Thanks, for sharing your experience, I tired ACV so many time and always I got good result, it's work very good for Uric acid problems too.

Alternatives to Synthroid

Posted by Betty (CA) on 04/09/2022

TSH in the normal high range might not be a bad # is you don't have chronic fatigue/exhaustion? Do you filter your water? There are many more outward signs to give clues. These are some things that might give you better answers on direction how to correct hypothyroidism Expanded vitamin mineral panel should be done for a deeper look at endocrine along with adrenal-thyroid baseline panels to include; morning cortisol level, free T4 and free T3, thyroid peroxidase, thyroid binding globulin. There is another one but will have to dig thru my notes. When I find it I will post. Most deficiencies are usually iodine, B12, D, selenium, zinc, magnesium, and high cholesterol levels. I think your nutritionalist needs to brush up on latest studies :) Flouride over exposure cancels out iodine and bromide overrides iodine absorption in the thyroid. I also have parathyroid troubles. I haven't tried the borax protocol. Interesting, thank you for pointing it out. Nodules on my thyroid have decreased over the last 6 months targeting based on bloodwork and eliminating toxins in water thru filtration. Morning temp also gives you info on normal function and or hypo. Morning temp below say 98-97.6 reflects hypo also. I hope this gives you ideas for a closer look to correct thyroid without pharma rx's.

Alternatives to Synthroid

Posted by John (Australia) on 11/25/2022

I don't know much about the thyroid meds, but to strengthen bones she would need to take a calcium supplement along with vitamin D3, K2, zinc and boron. Calcium alone might get deposited into her arteries which can lead to blocked arteries so taking the 4 supplements makes sure that the calcium goes to the bones. I use "Solgars" calcium complex which contains all of the above vitamins, but the pills are rather large so might have to be crushed into some juice for some people. Dr Joel Wallach gives some good info on osteoporosis in his podcast called "Dead doctors don't lie", it's on youtube and is very informative.

Charcoal

Posted by Mama To Many (Tn) on 08/11/2017

Dear I.M Trying

To answer your question…

I first went to a doctor not knowing why I had excessive thirst, thinking it was diabetes. Tests said it was low thyroid. I was given 25 or maybe 50 mg of Synthroid, which I took for about 3 months. When I was retested in that time, my thyroid number was okay, but I was not and ended up weaning off Synthroid and trying natural remedies. A couple of years later I had blood work done for pregnancy and they checked my thyroid as a matter of course. I didn't mention that I was taking iodine or other supplements. My thyroid level was normal.

I never did have the more complex thyroid panels done. In recent years I can only go by how I feel. If I run out of iodine, my dry mouth comes back. I was not diagnosed with Hashimoto's specifically, though I wouldn't be surprised if that would have been diagnosed had I had further testing or gone to an endocrinologist as I had another autoimmune issue going on at the time.

All that to say, I don't know if iodine would work for you or not. Some say iodine is bad for those with Hashimoto's. Others say it is necessary. You may want to read what Dr. Brownstein has to say about thyroid and iodine.

And you are dealing with the mercury toxicity, another layer.

I would encourage you to keep reading on EC. You may find another story or two here that will resonate with your situation. Surely you will get many ideas for things to try; just don't try too many at once or you won't know what is helping or not. The wellness tips page is one place to start if you haven't checked it out already.

Keep us posted!

~Mama to Many~

Charcoal

Posted by Lauren (California) on 09/03/2017

My reply to "Lauren" (great name btw :-). My brother in law and his family live in the agricultural basin of California (from Sacramento all the way down to below Bakersfield) and were on well water. Two of their four children got diabetes while teenagers, and are on diabetes medications for life. I always suspected it was due to pesticide run-off.

It pays to test your well water and not 'assume' that it is safe. Our underground water is not as pure as it used to be.

All the best,

Lauren

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Sulia J (Minneapolis, Minnesota) on 04/10/2017

Be careful with Armour. They changed the formula a few years back and some people don't do well on it since then. I got a doctor to let me try it and actually gained weight quite quickly on it - 30 pounds in a few months - and did not feel too well. Others have reported similar experiences, even folks who had been on it for years with good results.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by MissM (NY) on 10/24/2021

Acella NPThyroid, this is what I take it like Armour but I find it's more effective, plus Armour prices have skyrocketed. NP is natural. Medicare won't cover but you can use GOODRx to get under 25 dollars.

You can get supplements but the problem with the thyroid one they are not standardized.

Armour, and NPThyroid though produced by a company are not like big pharma Synthroid.

Iodine, Selenium

Posted by Beth (Chicago, Il, Usa) on 01/21/2010

Hi Julie!

The patch test is an easy way to see if you are deficient in iodine. Get a bottle of tincture of iodine. Paint a 2 inch square on an inconspicuous place on your body (arch of your foot, inside of your arm or thigh, stomach, etc) before you go to bed. If it's gone in the morning, you are iodine deficient. In someone who has enough iodine in their system it should disappear in about 24 hours.

Another thing I wanted to add is that my sugar cravings are gone. It's bizarre! Really, if I woke up and started speaking Sanskrit I would be less surprised! I've always struggled with my weight because I was always craving things, always thinking about food. A while back I was counting my calories trying to lose weight (again!). Once I started with the iodine, I stopped counting calories, because I just didn't need to. I could suddenly go without snacking between meals. I am losing weight with a reduction in my calories, but it's not a struggle or an effort as it has been in the past.

I saw this on another board about iodine and it's true for me as well- I am finally eating to live instead of living to eat.

Best of luck to you!

Hypothyroidism and Heredity

Posted by Craig (Birmingham, England) on 04/21/2011
★★★★★

To those people having problems with some of the treatments for hypothyroidism you should really seek the diagnosis from a Professional Traditional Chinese Medicine doctor only. These can give you the specifics for your condition. If you're taking something heating but you have dramatic heat in the body you can cause negative effects. Same as if you have high levels of raising Qi and your eyes are bulging you cannot take foods or herbs which raise the Qi further you want to use the opposite. You'll only find these details out from a good Chinese Doctor.

Thyroid problems are very much tied to the Kidneys and Spleen which drag down the Liver, Lungs and Heart eventually. You need to know your Qi issues overall and with individual organs along with hot/cold problems in organs so you can tackle this correctly and properly. If you want to aid your Kidneys and have a Yin deficiency there then you should take black Sesame seed cooked daily. The Chinese system and diet is the only way to properly address your problems. I've found Chrysanthemum flower excellent for my symptoms which involved a lack of Yang Qi at the Kidney and too much in the Lungs creating breathing problems and hell to be honest. This wonderful flower really helps the heat in the Lungs and excess heat in the Liver which will soon affect the eyes if not dealt with. Again Chinese medicine is the only way to go properly and safely.

Remove Old Dental Fillings

Posted by Amy (Los Angeles, CA) on 05/20/2009
★★★★★

I had a hypothyroid condition for over 10 years caused by Hashimoto's Disease where my body produced antibodies to attack my thyroid. I was told this auto-immune disease was completely incurable.

I had terrible toxicity symptoms from extreme fatigue, dizzy spells, memory loss, and multiple food intolerances. Anything that had pesticides, especially herbs, caused near anaphlyactic responses.

I was taking 125 mcg synthroid for 10 years. I never felt right.

I found when I took kelp, my thyroid increased but sometimes it went too high.

I did a lot of research on mercury fillings and decided to have a bio dentist remove them safely. I felt worse as they removed several at each visit. On my last visit, something remarkable happened. The next morning after my last amalgam was removed my basal body temperature returned to normal for the first time in my life.

I ended up in the ER because my thyroid became over active from the medication. The doctor looked at me like I was crazy when I told him it was because of my fillings. My tests confirmed that my thyroid was working on its own and I no longer needed medication. I have been free of hypothyroidism for 5 years now!

Please research the effects of mercury on your hormones. My endocronologist now makes all of her patients remove their amalagams. She has found great evidence that women in menopause can not balance their hormones until their old fillings have been replaced with more bio compatible fillings. No more silver!!!

It's also important to use chlorella or a product like ___ ___ ____ to remove remaining mercury immediately following your dentist visit after amalgam removal.

Good Luck!

Alternatives to Synthroid

Posted by Betty (CA) on 01/14/2022

I take kelp and paint my neck at night with lugol's. Also I take B12.

Alternatives to Synthroid

Posted by Betty (CA) on 02/12/2022

I take Life Extension brand Sea Iodine 1000mcg, 1 per day. And paint my neck before bed.

ND said if I take natural kelp it needs to be from the north Atlantic. Here is info and website for fresh kelp.

Eat seaweed (Nat. Import Co./Maine Coast Seaweed), daily in some form or fashion. https://naturalimport.com/

We'll discuss maybe topical Io too next time.

Alternatives to Synthroid

Posted by Betty (CA) on 02/13/2022

Found this in my notes from ND about hypothyroid.

Epimedium (also known as Horney Goat Weed) is good for thyroid, Deer Antler is excellent.Tyrosine and Iodine together are the precursors for the production of thyroid hormones – seaweed should be a condiment – eggs, apricots, coconut oil and cranberries are good for thyroid also. Rosemary helps T4 convert to T3.

Other activators include Rhodiola, Guggul, Coleus Forskhollii, Vit A, zinc, magnesium and selenium (seleno proteinshelps T4 convert to T3. Bladderwrack (Fucus) is the best kelp for enhancing thyroid function. Phytolacca is excellentfor thyroid w/ nodules on the thyroid. Rub poke root oil on it.

Iodine

Posted by Art (California ) on 11/12/2015 2891 posts

Ali,

One thing you can try is using a thermometer under your arm to check your temperature first thing upon awakening in the morning. It should be very close to 98 degrees. If it is lower than that, you may be iodine deficient. Not as accurate as what your doctor can probably find out, but it should give you a clue .

Art

Iodine

Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philippines) on 09/25/2014

Hi Bonbon...The alternative regimen you should always follow for lugols iodine supplementation crucially also includes taking the companion nutrients as well. This includes taking vitamins and minerals such as selenium, zinc, magnesium, niacin, B6, Vitamin C, etc on a daily basis with the LI.

This iodine regimen will not just benefit your thyroid. The iodine, vitamin C and niacin will all act to also help reduce your blood pressure issues too.

I'm 64 years old and I've been supplementing 8 drops of iodine with water for the last 8 years due to the severe lack of iodine in food today. I have no aches and pains, heart good, no digestive problems, have lots of energy, sleep well, BP 110/70 and feel about 35 y o.

Supplementing Lugol's Iodine in the correct daily amounts will also help to correct menstrual issues, stop cyst formation and it will help you to automatically lose weight if you are overweight. Iodine also seems to act as an all round hormone balancer and stabilizer for the body's other hormone systems.

References:

A Guide to Iodine Supplementation

More Info on Iodine Companion Nutrients

Hypothyroid and High Blood Pressure

Charcoal

Posted by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 04/14/2014

Wow Ivy, thanks for sharing that! It is good to know. It never occurred to me that well water could have flouride in it. I knew what I was dealing with with our water since we had it tested when we moved to our current home. It was orange and we wanted to know what we were dealing with (Turns out it was manganese, which is easily filtered with charcoal.) I should not have assumed that well water in general does not have flouride! I agree that well water is not always safe! Years ago my children were all of a sudden vomiting and had no fever or other symptoms. We finally realized it was when they drank water. We had it tested and it had bacteria in it. We had to treat our well. I guess the moral of the story is that people on well water should get water tests to make sure they know what they are dealing with... Thanks again for the helpful information! ~Mama to Many~

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Rsw (Uniontown, OH) on 11/24/2013

Would you be able to tell us how much ACV you are taking to cure your hypothyroidism? How much and how frequently? Thank you so much!

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Hoosier Hoppy (Indiana) on 12/11/2014

Hi. I am well over 50 and have been taking 'pills' for hypo thyroid / Hashimoto's thyroiditis for quite some time. I too, do not like ingesting chemicals. My doctor calls for fairly frequent testing to make sure "all" of the numbers are good. She has prescribed "Nature Throid", which as the name implies, a natural / chemical free alternative. There is another one, although I honestly don't know if they still make it, call Armor.

My personal experience has been that trying to control my thyroid without prescription medication was not a good idea... Others may have had better luck.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Carmel (England) on 06/16/2015

My thyroid is only slightly underactive. Was put on 25 thyroxide and within days felt very very ill. So came off it. Then went onto the natural one and felt very ill in a different way. Am now using iodine.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Angie Rasmussen (Utah) on 10/21/2021

That's what I was feeling, I quit taking it since I felt like I was taking a placebo....sleeplessness, anxiety and so on....I feel more relaxed but gaining weight and tired....going to try ACV and Coconut oil.

Hypothyroidism and Low Appetite

Posted by Ed2010 (Canada) on 08/04/2013

Quick remedy for Hypothyroidsm is take 2 - 3 drops of Lugol's 5% solution everyday. Eat foods rich in Iodine, Kelp is rich in Iodine. Good Health

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Lana (London) on 05/07/2015
★★★★★

Thanks Magda! Since I first found my TSH as high as 19 two months ago, I've been taking the same vitamins, herbal teas of echinacea, licorice, astragalus; ashwagandha capsules, chyawanprash in the morning and triphala in the evening, EV coconut oil 2-3 table spoons a day, fruit, cooked vegetables, very little of oatmeal and other grains, every day bone broth, brazil nuts for selenium and pumpkin seeds for zinc/magnesium, sometimes probiotic capsules. I use only olive oil for frying.

In two months my TSH improved to 10. The antibodies also improved.

Should I start taking levothyroxin tablets?

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Green Augustine (Mold, Denbighshire) on 05/11/2015 41 posts

I've been taking coconut oil for a year and my thyroid seems to have re balanced itself going by my morning basal temperatur( taken before I get out if bed). Be careful with licorice as though it has its uses. It can send your blood pressure up a lot. I was having several cups a day and mine went from my normal 120/75 to 157/85! When I came off the licorice my BP came down.

Multiple Remedies

Posted by Lynn (Vancouver, Canada) on 10/29/2016

Olive oil is great for salads and dressings, but is not suitable for frying. Much too fragile (Still shaking my head at some of these cooking shows where celeb chefs use EVOO for frying! ) It simply does not have a high smoke point and can make your end results carcinogenic. Much better choices for frying foods or high-heat baking are avocado oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil and macademia nut oil - all have high smoke points.

General Feedback

Posted by Wendy (....., Canada) on 10/10/2011

I didn't catch the original post for this but in regards to swimming in a chlorinated pool, It just isn't worth it IMO and I won't allow my kids to swim in one either. My husband would like them to learn how to swim and our pool is only open a few months out of the year but I won't let them go to the pool at the Y because it is so incredibly toxic on sooo many levels... I did a whack of research on it trying to show him the pros and cons. I recall reading something years ago about kids who swam like once a week in a chlorinated pool and how damaging on their respitory system and causing ashtma etc. Last time I was in a chlorinated pool 5 years ago on vacation, I went to get out and could hardly stand up!!! Don't let people fool you with 'salt pools'... Same diff - research it, its not the healthy option they lead you to believe. Great Wolf lodge? I walked in the room and it BURNED MY LUNGS just breathing it- YUK!!!! I turned around and walked back out. WOW, can't believe people take their kids there.

We put up our own pool and run it on hydrogen peroxide (we purchase 35% in 5 gallon jugs, and then the following year we bought them in drums (maybe 18 gallons?? not sure my husband gets them from an agriculture place that services farms ;-)) and then we buy test strips. When shocking you can shoot for 100 ppm and some recommend keeping it at 50-75 ppm.... Which seems to work well ;-) there is information online about converting yoru pool to h202. We tried ozone for a few years but it wasn't a stand alone product and we got algae so we switched to the h202 and algae bars which I couldn't find this year ;-) Just my 2 cents on the evils of chlorine ;-(

Iodine

Posted by Stacey (Gboro, Nc) on 04/12/2011
★★★☆☆

BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS

Week 1 on Lugol's 2%

Like many on the website, I have all of the symptoms of hypothyroidism but test negative. Lately, my energy levels were dropping, and I have been steadily gaining wait even though I am on the Atkins diet. I decided to try Lugol's after a bit of research.

I wasn't expecting much since none of the thyroid supplements have helped me in the past, so I was pleasantly surprised with the iodine tincture. I started with 2 drops of the 2% in the morning in a tall glass of water and ACV.

So far my energy level has increased slightly. It isn't like a cup of coffee, but rather I am able to stay up a bit later at night, and even had trouble sleeping the first 3 days. My mood has elevated dramatically; it is much more positive even with overhaging stressors. My seasonal allergies are nearly neutralized as well.

My side effects so far include trouble sleeping, a low level vaginal discharge, cloudy urine in the morning, and possible hair loss. Iodine is supposed to help eliminate candida, which may account for the discharge. It may also be the case that my hormonal levels are changing, and that is the result. In relation to hair loss, I've always been losing hair, so I;m not certain that that is a side effect.

I'll keep you posted as I notice more changes.

Iodine

Posted by Janice (Coloma, Mi) on 10/24/2009

Loren, I talked to a Pharmacist who is into natural healing when he did a talk on thyroid last week. He said Lugols was o.k. but too much iodine can actually shut the thyroid down and he preferred to see people take Kelp, Dulse or some other source of iodine from food sources. He told me 1 drop of Lugols a day. I happened to have taken two that day and I got really flushed. The Lugols is the only thing I can think of that would do that to me.

Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Bunny (Santa Ana, Ca) on 09/29/2009

Most weight loss experts these days don't recommend calorie counting because all calories are not created equal. A glass of vegetable juice might have more calories than a '0 calorie' diet drink, but the juice is full of vitamins, minerals and other great things, while the diet drink is junk in a bottle.

VCO is a good example of this. It's crammed with medium chain triglycerides (about 60%). MCTs aren't stored as fat. They are converted to ketones that your cells can burn instead of sugar. MCT's are being researched as a treatment for Alzheimer's for this reason.

For hypothyroidism iodine is the thing-along with removing things that inhibit thyroid function from your diet. Fluoride, chlorine and bromines are big culprits. Soy and raw cruciferous veges like broccoli and cauliflower can also cause problems. Check the iodine section here for instructions on how to do an iodine patch test and see if supplementing helps.

Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Hope (Delhi, India) on 04/12/2011

Hey Guys,

I am a newbie to this site and happy to see so many people sharing their experiences. I am 27 yrs old and have been on thyroid medication for a year now. Although this disease has messed up my life - body and mind.. The doctors I have met seem quite unconcerned with the problems I am facing. From being an extremely active girl, I have become the laziest and tiredest of all. I have put on 20Kgs in last one year and look extremely puffy. Nothing interests me and at times I feel detached to my loved ones. I don't understand why! I have asked many doctors about it... but all they do is get my blood test done and then change my medication amount accordingly.

Looking for alternatives is how I found this site and hope that it may help me to cure or at least cpe with the situation. I have started with EVCO - cold pressed today. My stomach is not taking it well right now, but I am feeling much more energetic ( I might be just imagining it! ). Anyhow, I am feeling happy enough to enroll for swimming - used to be my passion in college.

Hoping for the best!

Hypothyroid Remedies

Posted by Theresa (United States) on 11/07/2019

I really need help. I have had chemical sensitivities for most of my adult life. I am 70 years old. I have never been able to take medications without great pain running throughout my body. Especially my legs, hands and kidneys. I am at a VERY SCARY place right now as I need medication for a extremely low thyroid condition. I tried taking the lovothyroxine (lowest dosage) also called tirosent made without fillers and binders, and my body is wracked with pain. I am crying as write this,, and feel there is no hope. I stopped taking it for 3 days however it takes weeks for me to start feeling improvement. Doctors said I could die. Please Please help.

Hypothyroid Remedies

Posted by Nonnie (Canada) on 11/08/2019

Hi Theresa -

I know it's difficult but please don't feel hopeless. There are some really great solutions on Earth Clinic's hypothyroid page (especially posts from Bill from the Philippines and Mama to Many). https://earthclinic.com/ailments/hypothyroid/

It's a long read but really worth it. Not everything works for everyone but it will give you a starting point. Also, since your body can't tolerate synthetic thyroid, you can have your doctor prescribe natural thyroid (desiccated thyroid - usually from a pig). Try out some of the options and see how you feel. Keep your diet as clean as possible (some people do better without gluten) and stay hydrated. I wish you all the best.

Take care, Nonnie

Hypothyroid Remedies

Posted by Mama to Many (TN) on 11/11/2019

Hi Theresa,

I haven't posted about thyroid in quite some time. I was able to manage it naturally for a long time, but needed more than that a year or so ago. I found a practitioner who is more inclined to do things naturally. She prescribed Nature Thyroid. It is a prescription. It has T 3 and T4. I have done very well on it. (Synthroid, however, did not agree with me 10 or so years ago when I tried it.) I had asked about Armour Thyroid, but she felt that because I have autoimmune diseases that Armour wasn't a good choice for me. As it turned out I am glad I didn't take it in light of the more recent diagnosis of Alpha Gal Syndrome (mammalian allergy), since Armour is a mammalian based product and could cause allergic reaction. ~Mama to Many~

Hypothyroid Remedies

Posted by Elizabeth (USA) on 01/08/2020

I'm so sorry for your situation. Most hypothyroid patients do best with t3 added. I'm on t4 and t3. There are cardiologists who prescribe t3 to their heart patients. I hope this helps.

Alternatives to Synthroid

Posted by Abbycat (Oregon) on 07/10/2023

My doctor gave me the minimum dose of levothyroid. It caused problems as in major palpitations. I cut the 25 mg pill in half and it still caused palpitations. I seemed to be able to handle 1/4 of a tablet which is maybe 6 mg with less of a problem. I guess I am glad I tried to cut it back just to make it work somewhat but I can see why people have a bad response to this.

Iodine

Posted by Art (California) on 11/10/2015 2891 posts

Ali,

Although many people recommend the use of "painting" iodine onto the skin as a method of absorbing iodine into the body, it is a very poor way to go as 88% is lost to evaporation and only 12 % actually becomes available within the body. This may explain your lack of response to your use of iodine.

http://www.optimox.com/pics/Iodine/updates/UNIOD-02/UNIOD_02.htm

Art

Iodine

Posted by Art (California ) on 11/11/2015 2891 posts

I forgot to mention that people think because the iodine color dissipates that the iodine has been absorbed, but the salt in the skin slowly oxidizes the iodine to form iodide which is colorless and is still on the skin. In any case, if you are buying iodine, it seems like a waste of money to get just 12% absorption.

Art

Iodine

Posted by Ali (Ontario, Canada) on 11/12/2015

Hi Art,

Thanks for your response to my request for info on iodine painting. The link you supplied was most interesting. You made an excellent point. I will ask my Dr. to check my iodine level before I proceed with the painting. A big thanks to Earth Clinic for the update on the harm caused by fluoride in our water supply as well as from other sources which affects the thyroid.

On closing, would just like to add that I received some info from Erfa, the company that supplies our NDT here in Canada. Gluten was listed as one of the fillers, I was very disappointed as I had just spent the last month trying to eliminate gluten from my diet, hoping to get the weight issue under control .Still no word from erfa as to weather or not their natural thyroid has been checked for traces of ractopamine. I am beginning to think I will never get this hypo-thyroid thing under control. It is so disheartening.

Wishes for health and wellness to all. Ali

Iodine

Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philippines) on 11/12/2015

Hi Ali...One of the main reasons that you may not be getting anywhere with your suspect thyroid problem is that the main TSH/T4 checks that the doctors run on your thyroid can be wildly inaccurate. That's a well known fact. Also patented thyroid meds usally only contain T4 and no T3. Triiodothyronine(T3) is the important active thyroid hormone that usually causes all the thyroid problems. So why are the mainstream docs only testing the TSH and T4 levels and medicating with synthetic T4 hormones? In the 1970s, for reasons completely unknown, the docs were suddenly advised(by the drugs companies) to change from testing T3 to just testing TSH/T4. I'm still trying to work that one out...

The other point is that you will need to take more than just iodine to cure a suspect hypothyroid problem that the docs can't confirm. You could try supplementing the Iodine protocol as advised here and here. I would also strongly advise that you should see an iodine-literate doc to help you with this, as hypothyroid problems are not so simple and can be highly individual and complex -- many other adverse factors can also be play their part such as diet, liver, adrenals etc.See this website for more info on how to get your thyroid checked properly. This website also has advice on how to find an iodine-literate doc who might also be able to help you.

I still take my lugol's iodine every day -- 6 to 8 drops (usually between 37 mgs to 50 mgs) per day. I've been taking this Iodine Protocol for nearly 10 years with no adverse effects. I'm one of the lucky ones. My body is detoxed and clean and fed with love and tender care. Others, when they first start taking lugol's iodine, can't even take one drop without going into a hyper or highly agitated or anxious state. But that's not the fault of the iodine -- that reaction is caused by poor personal diet and lifestyle which is due to lack of proper nutrients and poisons in their diet that has persisted -- unchecked --for decades. Some articles and further clarification on this and other aspects of iodine for health shown here and here.

Hypothyroid Tests

Posted by Michelle (Jacksonville, Fl) on 09/23/2015

Shiehaam, When your blood tests come back from your doctor, then ask for a copy of them. They have the normal ranges printed right there on the paperwork. Also, ask your doctor for a 3rd generation tsh test, instead of a 1st generation one because the 3rd generation test shows results that are much more precise, whereas the 1st generation tsh test is less precise, and only somewhat guesses at what normal is.

Hypothyroid Tests

Posted by Michelle (Florida) on 09/23/2015

Shiehaam, The normal ranges for thyroid tests are printed on the test results. Get a copy of the lab results from your doctor.

Charcoal

Posted by Lauren (Queens) on 04/02/2014

Hi Ec....Does anyone know if its safe to use Charcoal for internal cleansing if you are hypothyroid? Please advise....Thanks

Charcoal

Posted by Robyn (Austin, TX) on 07/16/2021

Mama to Many ~

thank you for your reply on the lugol's iodine for hypothyroidism. You mentioned two "droppers" do you mean two full droppers of the 2%? I have the 5% so maybe a full or almost full dropper daily? Just want to clarify that it's not two drops, and is two full droppers.

Charcoal

Posted by Lauren (California) on 02/25/2015

My reply to Mama of Many regarding your well water... it's easy to think it's safer than city water. But my brother in law's family were on a well, and two of their four children were diagnosed with diabetes, insulin dependent. It's very sad because now they have to be on diabetic meds for the rest of their lives. They traced the issue to pesticide run off from the farms around their property. So please get your water checked (if you haven't already).

And thank you for sharing your remedies for hypothyroid. I am hypo, and take iodine daily, plus all the vitamins I can afford.

Best wishes, Lauren

Charcoal

Posted by Mr. Ree (Usa) on 02/26/2015

Lauren, Your children do not have to be on medications for the rest of their lives...Go to watercure2.org. Then read the testimonials for the close to 50 diseases...Bob Butts will have a coach call you (On their dime) and walk you through the simple procedure...It's ALL free as Mr. Butts cured himself of cancer and is spreading the word about his cure and many other cures through a web site and radio show...He should be sainted...

Charcoal

Posted by Kayb (Jersey) on 06/28/2016

I am avid supporter of selenium and have been for years. Selenium sources are just as important as the trace mineral itself. Brazil nuts vary widely in their selenium content depending on the soil content where they were grown. I swear by an organic high-selenium yeast with a broad spectrum of selenoproteins because it is safe and guaranteed.

Iodine and selenium are great tools for thyroid health.

Also, a great iron source is Floradix. One of the best organic iron sources out there with superior absorption.

For every good product there are always a plethora of crappy and ineffective ones. Do your research, when you get supplements, choose a pharmaceutical-grade quality instead of wasting your money at grocery stores and retail chains.

Charcoal

Posted by I. M. Trying (Nm) on 08/12/2017

Thank you so much!!! I appreciate you responding, I will read what Dr. Brownstein wrote and discuss with my naturopath.

Coconut Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 05/03/2015

Dear Sheryl,

When I am taking Coconut Oil for medical purposes, I take up to 3 Tablespoons a day. But less may work fine for you. You could up it slowly and see what you think.

A total of 1 Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar a day is helpful for many people for a variety of conditions. Others end up taking 2 or 3 Tablespoons a day. Again, you could increase if you like and see what you think.

The calcium build would make me suspect the body needs more magnesium. If so, you could try a Tablespoon of Blackstrap Molasses a day, frequent Epsom Salt baths, or Natural Calm. I take about 1.5 teaspoons of that each night. (If you get loose stools, cut back some.)

Yes, getting a biopsy is scary! Let us know how it goes.

~Mama to Many~

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Tonicia (Springfield, US) on 07/12/2014

I've been on levothyroxine since 2004. I really want to be cured of my thyroid issue. Does the ACV really work to bring levels back up to normal?

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Mama to Many (Tennessee) on 02/16/2015

Dear Mili,

I have taken ACV all through pregnancy. I would not take huge amounts of it or anything. But I probably took up to 2 Tablespoons a day.

Coconut Oil is a great oil to use in pregnancy.

I am assuming you are not going to off your synthroid? I would not make any prescription changes during pregnancy without doctor supervision. Low thyroid can cause miscarriage or other problems with the baby.

Some pregnant moms need to have medications adjusted as pregnancy may change the amount of synthroid you need. So if ACV and coconut oil improve your condition and make it so you need less of the synthroid, presumably this would be picked up during bloodwork you have as part of prenatal care.

~Mama to Many~

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Nadine C (New York City) on 01/04/2021

Nature Throid is not available any where they had a recall - I cannot find, not sure what to do.

Hypothyroidism and Low Appetite

Posted by Linda (St Amans De Pellagal, France, France) on 08/04/2013

Please can someone help. I have hypothyridism and so a naturally low appetite. I have no desire whatsoever to eat, and we have hot weather which isn't helping. Today I ate nothing until lunchtime when I had half a marmite sandwich, and tonight I made a chicken salad which I picked at. My cat ate more of it than I did. I cannot begin to think about having fruit, or anything else nutritious, at some other time because then I will eat nothing in the evening. How do I handle this?

Hypothyroidism and Low Appetite

Posted by Rsw (Uniontown, Oh) on 08/05/2013

Linda, Generally, hypothyroids tend to gain weight, but that has not been the case with me, either. As suggested in another post, I take an iodine supplement along with Selenium, B vitamins, and magnesium every day. Also, a natural thyroid replacement, such as Armour, will bring your TSH, Free T3 and Free T4 where they should be, as measured by blood tests and symptoms. A good book on the subject is, "Stop the Thyroid Madness" which helps you understand what is going on and gives good advice on what you need to do to balance your symptoms. Unrelated to thyroid issues, I have found that taking a Benadryl capsule (the pink and white one) can take me from nauseated to hungry in about an hour sometimes. Best wishes.

Hypothyroidism and Low Appetite

Posted by Linda (St Amans De Pellagal, France) on 09/24/2015

Michelle, things have moved on somewhat since I first posted. I lost a huge amount of weight overall, nearly fifty pounds and was very underweight, but that has improved and it is slowly going back up. I couldn't understand why I was the opposite of everyone else with hypothyroidism, but am now convinced that it was caused by issues I have had at home which I am now resolving.

I started on natural thyroid a year ago which helped a lot, and I have started doing the MIR Method recently too, if you haven't heard of it it is a technique that supports the body in healing itself. People have actually reported healing their thyroid. Whether this is possible I can't say but I have been feeling very different mentally since I started doing this.

Thyroid Readings

Posted by Braveheart (Vancouver, Bc) on 05/05/2013

You have demodex mites. Eyebrow and hair loss are very telling. Try slathering yourself with organic coconut oil when you get out of your bathing. Face to feet and watch all the mites squirm out of your pores it is amazing. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your bath products and it will kill the eggs too. Massage yourself firmly and press out all the poisons. I did this morning and night. Especially at night and I picked them off and put them on the tissue. Going to take them to my Dr. next week as she also had rosacea. That is why I did all the research for this cleanse. Awful acne/rosacea caused by demodex mites. We all have them. They came out of my kids and sister. They just have different symtoms or no symptoms and just carry them. I'm doing everyone in my family. Tell everyone and then come back and tell us how you do! If you watch the utub video on how to do eyelashes it is good but I don't bother I just use my fingers to rub everything in and then I make sure I do my best to get them off quickly as they can slide back in the pores and get stuck and cause breakouts like crazy. I have a couple and they are all red and zitty. Wasn't quick enough so many came out is was shockingly disgustingly amazing and so freeing to get back my health and energy.

Thyroid Readings

Posted by Miguel (Toronto) on 06/23/2013

I greatly advocate the use of organic coconut oil for a myriad of uses. However, none of you will find a cure in it for this particular ailment. Nor will any prescription drug from Pfizer or Glaxo.

I'm very surprised to see the lack of mention in regards to selenium and iodine. Many cases of hypothyroidism stem to a deficiency of selenium and/or iodine. Both correlate with the levels of T3 and T4.

Low Temperature and Hypothyroidism

Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philippines) on 04/20/2013
★★★★★

Hi Denise... I think that your body temperature of 96.3 °F would probably seem to confirm a hypothyroid problem. Your body temperature should be at about 98.6 °F.

So perhaps its best to go and see your doctor and ask, at the very least, for a Free T3 and Free T4 (thyroid hormones) test. Your doctor will probably advise that you simply take just the TSH test - which is highly inaccurate on its own. So I would insist on the TSH plus the Free T3 and Free T4 tests for the thyroid gland. Your series of tests, to give a complete picture, should also realistically include blood tests for ferritin(anaemia), adrenal hormones(stress), TSH, T3, T4, Reverse T3 and a test for Vitamin B12 levels in the blood. This is described in more detail in the links below.

For a proper understanding and much more detail on how to actually cure your own thyroid problem and symptoms (using the lugols iodine protocol and natural bio-identical hormones) you should also try to read Dr Brownsteins two books which will give you a much greater understanding of your problem:

Iodine: Why You need it, Why you Can't Live Without it

Overcoming Thyroid Problems

The above books can also be found on Amazon.

And also from Dr Brownstein, here is a simple link that quickly describes, in fair detail, some surprising reasons as to what really causes hypothyroidism, its particular effects on the body and what you can actually do about it.

http://americannutritionassociation.org/sites/default/files/Brownstein 1.pdf

General Feedback

Posted by Linda (New Haven, Ct, United States) on 02/27/2013

I often check my lab work on this site: http://labtestsonline.org/

Use the section on the right hand side to pull up each of the tests conducted by the lab, then just read the various tabs that appear. You will then have a good understanding of your results.

Linda

Congenital Hypothyroidism

Posted by Nursing Student In Florida (Saint Augustine, Fl) on 10/03/2012

First of all, after reading the blurb at the top about cretinism being a form of hypothyroidism in infants... this is a CHOICE...I am a patient who has congenital hypothyroidism (in my particular case, my thyroid gland is so severely underdeveloped I basically do not have one) but thanks to my beloved mother listening to the physicians when she found out that I had this condition and CHOOSING to make sure I took my medication everyday, I do not suffer from cretinism and am actually a nursing student with Certification as a Medical Assistant.

I have read several books and articles about this condition and ways to maintain a healthy diet. Unfortunately, there is not a cure but there are ways to live a healthy life despite the condition. I have heard that choosing a "flexitarian" diet that is a diet where meat is eaten once a day and the rest of the day a vegetarian-style diet plan is followed (high protein, high complex-carb... Think fiber). It is supposed to aid in proper BM also because you want to be eating higher amounts of fiber you want to drink more water which will promote the effects of the fiber. Monounsaturated fats and Polyunsaturated fats are also a huge help with this condition. Limit Saturated and Trans fats as much as possible (they break down into simple sugars which will leave you feeling drained).

Hypothyroidism can make joints and muscles feel weak, a good way to combat this is to start the day with yoga or some soothing exercise (save the cardio and strength training for later, allow your muscles the opportunity to ease into the day's movements) also this is the time of day when you want to consume the most calories ie: if you are consuming a 1600 cal diet then 600 breakfast, 500 lunch, 500 dinner (with that said I have heard over and over it is best to just stick with 3 meals a day rather than 5 or 6 mini-meals, our metabolism is not like everyone else [drats :(]). Try not to eat anything between 2 to 3 hours before going to bed at night (acid can creep up causing problems in the future).

Hope this helps! Nursing Student in Florida

Iodine

Posted by Alicia (Abq., Nm) on 06/26/2012

I have been tested for both hypothyroid and iodine deficiency. I am currently taking Levothroxine but still have little energy, etc. So I asked to have a iodine test which came out that I was about 50% below what I should be. I was told to take a drop per day of lugols in a glass of water - I really felt hypertensive on the two occasions I did this so I stopped. Recently I read that putting the drop in the water and just holding it in your mouth and repeating til the glass is empty will work. I did it and I did feel much better. But the question is if I continue doing this should I continue to take the thryoid medication I have taken since the 8th grade? Can I take both of these together?

General Feedback

Posted by Anon (Queens, Ny) on 06/06/2012

Hi Ec..... I am hypothyroid, have been for the past three years. As many of us who has this disease know, you can never feel the way you did when you were not sick. I personally have changed my diet, used every green drink/vitamin imaginable and am still struggling. Recently, I have noticed that anytime I have a stressful day, or has overworked, I would have this sudden discomfort directly in the center of my chest. It would last from an hour to sometimes the whole day. I have used cayenne, lemon water, magnesium, fresh green juice, co q10, apple cider vinegar, garlic etc but nothing seems to help until one day out of desperation, I reached for a glass of milk don't ask me why.. All I know is that it took maybe 10 mins for the feeling to just disappear. I cannot up till now figure out why milk out of everything helped this issue. Could it me I was lacking calcium? I hope someone in this wonderful community can help me figure out this one. Please guys.... Bill, Lisa, anyone.... Your input would be very appreciated. God Bless