Full Thread

Jen (Bozeman, Mt) on 08/10/2011
5 out of 5 stars

Hi I just want to say DONT do RAI or surgery. Why would you remove an organ in your body that is the victim of your immune system. Your thyroid is not the problem it is actually your immune system. I was diagnosed 3 years ago but I know that I have had it since I was a child. Looking back I can remember episodes of hypo and hyper at different points of my life. I have been to an endo who perscribed methimazole. I stopped that about 6 months in when my hair was coming out in clumps and my lab tests were not getting better. Of course my endo wanted me to get rid of my thyroid because Dr's don't like diseases that they don't have control over. If you get rid of your thyroid they can give you fake thyroid for the rest of your life. Not to mention hypo is less fatal in comparison to hyper.

I went to two naturopaths. The first helped a little but the second was the one who helped most. His idea of treating the whole body not just the thyroid really made sense. He started by addressing my immune system which for some reason was attacking my thyroid. He placed me on desicated thymus gland (thymus is part of your immune system that dr's believe is useless to us after childhood). He also tested me for food allergies. I had so many intolerances that I was absolutely shocked. Gluten, dairy, peanuts, almonds. Things that I had been eating in huge amounts. He explained that it might be possible for me to stop all of the intolerant food for six months and I might be able to begin eating some of them again. Gluten it seems was the main culprit. I stoped all for six months and the only one I cannot tolerate now is Gluten. My naturopath explained to me that Gluten is like a bat and when I ingest it, I am hitting my immune system with it as if it were a bee hive. My immune system freaks out and begins attacking my thyroid, adrenals, skin etc.... It made sense to me that. I can have one crouton and I will have a dabilitating migraine and trembles etc. Anyhow I started taking many suppliments as well.

*copper (hypers are usually deficient)

*selenium (hypers and hypos are usually deficient)

*magnesium (helps heart palps)

*potassium (helps heart thumping)

calcium (muscle and bone weakness)

D3 (I was difficient as most people are)

iron ( anemia and to counter the copper intake)

valarian (sleeplessness and stress)

chromium and green tea ( stress and muscle weakness)

Relora (adrenal fatigue that was due to stress)

I know it's alot but they all have a purpose....

Spanish Black Radish (just started recently and is supposed to help sooth graves and release bile from liver)

B Compex (for everything:)

Vit A, C, E, as well.

I am completely in remission now and have been for over a year. I believe that the thymus support was the start of my healing and the * suppliments are the most important ones for maintaining my health at this point.

My 15 year old daughter was diagnosed about 10 months ago. I have skipped the endo and gone for the same treatment that helped me. So far she is getting better and on the rode to remission.

Please don't have surgery to remove an organ that is so important to your health and well being. Afterall it isn't the thyroids fault right. Focus your treatment on the real problem. Your immune system and why it is attacking you. God bless and good health to you all.

Replied By Jen (Bozeman, Mt) on 08/11/2011

I apoligize for forgetting to say that I was diagnosed with Graves Disease. My daughter was as well. Neither one of us have had any eye issues. But both of us have had very large goiters that are slowly shrinking back to normal.

Replied By Violeta (Chislehurst, Kent, United Kingdom) on 09/04/2011

Hi Jen, your post gives me so much hope and confirms my suspicion that the gluten intolerance could be the culprit for antibodies attacking the thyroid. I haven't been yet diagnosed, I am going to have further checks in the next few weeks but I know that the thyroid is being attacked by antibodies and it started to become overactive. I have been suffering from gluten intolerance for about 6 years, it was a long journey of discovery and understanding what the problem was. The test for gluten intolerance came negative (which is frequently the case). 2 years ago I went on a strict diet for intestinal candida and I can't tell you how much my health improved. I realised straight away that gluten was very bad for me, after staying gluten free, when you come back to gluten based food, you have no doubts how much that affects you. Also I had palpitations and sleepless nights which I couldn't relate to my gluten intolerance condition. Anyway I went to see an endocrinologist, to check my thyroid (2 years ago) and discovered that the thyroid was attacked by antibodies, but the thyroid was functioning in normal limits. He didn't prescribe anything but said to come back in a few months to check it again. For 2 years I nearly forgot about my thyroid. I treated my intestinal candida and tried to stay pretty much gluten free. I didn't have sleepless nights anymore but occasional heart racings which would go away in few days. But few months ago, I started again to eat lots of sweets (I have cravings), pastries, no more gluten free diet. My heart started to race again like crazy for 2 weeks continuously (pulse around 100) and candida symptoms came back. I went to GP and asked for a thyroid check and it came now that my thyroid started to be overactive. I am going to see a specialist soon for tests, but I am not going to start to kill my thyroid with pills.

In the last 2 years I learned how much damage gluten can do to one's health: bloating, constipation, migraines, depression, eczema, lack of energy, turning down your immune system etc but I didn't have a clue that it can turn your antibodies to attack your own body... As you very well said, the thyroid is the victim, not the culprit.

I am more than thrilled to find your post confirming what I just started to realise by myself: that there is a direct relation between gluten intolerance and thyroid problems and heart racing. It makes so much sense.

I am going to follow what you did: go back on a gluten free diet, take supplements and I want to see a naturopath but it is not easy to find the right one. Can you please tell me who to contact to help me? I don't know how much of these supplements to take and how. Please help. Thank you so much. Violeta

Replied By Jen (Bozeman, Mt, Us) on 09/06/2011

Hello Violeta, I would start by searching online for a natural endocrinologist in the United Kingdom. You can also get online help. I would also search for Naturopaths in your area. They are getting more common in the US so I am sure they are where you live as well. People are realizing that they don't want to put those terrible drugs into thier bodies and would rather go the natural route. I have no doubt you are on the right track. Please feel free to ask me any more questions. Good luck Jen!

Replied By Jen (Bozeman, Mt, Us) on 09/06/2011

I don't know if this will help but I thought it might clarify things a little:)

*copper (hypers are usually deficient) 2 mg per day

*selenium (hypers and hypos are usually deficient) 400 mg per day

*magnesium (helps heart palps) 300 to 500 mg per day

*potassium (helps heart thumping) Try to eat your potassium Banana 400 mg, coconut water 600 too 1000 mg, Potato 600 mg, Apricot 1300 mg, Black Strap Molasses 700 mg. You need 3000 to 6000 mg per day.

calcium (muscle and bone weakness) 1000 mg per day

D3 (I was difficient as most people are) 2000 mg per day

iron ( anemia and to counter the copper intake) 8 mg per day

valarian (sleeplessness and stress) I take 1 to 5 capsules per night.

chromium and green tea ( stress and muscle weakness) 25 mcg

Relora (adrenal fatigue that was due to stress) I take 1 pill twice a day (morning and night)

Replied By Violeta (Chislehurst, Kent) on 09/11/2011

Thank you Jen for your reply. Will try to find someone here.

Good health and God bless you. Violeta

Replied By Vana (Atlanta, Ga) on 10/08/2011

Hi Jenn: My name is Vanessa and I live in Atlanta. I have had graves disease for some time and was seeking a Naturopath. Do you have his or her information? I would be so grateful. Thanks

Replied By Jen (Bozeman, Mt, Us) on 10/11/2011

Hello Vanessa, I don't personally know any Naturopaths in Atlanta but I did a search and found one that looks like they might be able to point you in the right direction. Keep in mind that they are still doctors but they usually think much deeper than your average regular doctors. If you are not comfortable with one then you can choose another. They work for you not the other way around. Her name is Dr. Ellen Levy and her number is 404-256-2244. I looked at the services she has available and I would definately ask about the Nutritional Counseling (Based on Hair analysis) and the IgG blood allergy testing. These tests will give you a really good idea what you are deficient in and what is making you immune system go crazy. Ask about a thymus gland support to help get your immune system working properly. When you go to see her make sure you know what she is giving and why. Sometimes Naturopaths like to give wierd concoctions that have a mixture of ingredients. Which is fine as long as you know why and what you should expect them to do for you. Her website is http://www.drellenlevy.com/. Another great website is http://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/ this doctor has graves disease and has some really good posts about managing different things. He also does online and over the phone consultations if you want to spend the money. I have read most of his articles and he seems very knowledgeable and capable of helping you. I wish you the best and feel free to contact me with more questions if you want. midge811(at)msn.com.

Replied By Karl (Vienna, Austria) on 07/17/2012

@ Jen Selenium must be 400mcg micrograms!!! 400mg milligrams will kill you!!!

Replied By Cecilia (Ontario, Canada) on 08/27/2014

How are you feeling right now? Are you still in remission of Graves' Disease?

Replied By Wendy (Maryland, US) on 02/21/2015

You guys are so wonderful to share such promising information. I am filled with such hope as others who have responded here. Thank you all. Oh, my allergist told me he would test me for IgE once my thyroid got better so I believe that is what you meant to say (see below). Also, thanks again for listing out the minerals and vitamins, eye exercises, drinks, etc. So, very helpful!

An immunoglobulin E (IgE) test measures the blood level of IgE, one of the five subclasses of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system that attack antigens, such as bacteria, viruses, and allergens. IgE antibodies are found in the lungs, skin, and mucous membranes.

Replied By Jen (Bozeman, Mt) on 02/21/2015

I actually still meant the IgG testing as the IgE testing is only for anaphalactic/ histimine type reactions. Those allergies do not apply to our thyroids like IgG immune responses do. http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/home/eng/e-newsletter/igg_vs_ige.pdf

Here is an explanation of the differences. Most allergists do not believe IgG responses are responsible for doing any damage to our thyroids or any other body parts for that matter. You have to go to a Naturopath or some other healer who can do food allergy testing for you to get a better idea of what your IgG immune sensitivities are.

I also just realized someone wanted to know how I was doing now. I am much better. Still working on my health naturally as I did some things that may have caused my thyroid to go the other way. I am now only Hashimotos thyroid and my Graves is still in remission. It turns out I had both issues but was only experiencing Graves. But now my Hashimotos is dominant. I have had alot of stress lately as my husband just had a kidney transplant and was very ill before that so now we are trying to focus on getting me better again. Stress can do so much damage to our bodies:( I am still taking most of the supplements I listed above though. As they are so important to thyroid health. There are some new ones that I will list in a separate post.

Replied By Valri (Bellingham, Wa) on 07/21/2015

Hi Jen,

I completely agree with you about NOT REMOVING or doing the RAI. Doctors are fools thinking they're god when they can't control a disease.

I've had Graves for about 2 years. The first few months was pretty sure I was going to die. I did a ton of online research, my doctor advised against that, as if he wanted me to remain feeling horrible. After digging around online I found bugleweed. Then I found a natural pharmacy that put tinctures together in-house while you waited. It was there I met someone who also had Graves and he recommended a naturopath.

My doctor had set up RAI for me and I promptly cancelled it once I was armed with my own information that the doc knew nothing about.

The naturopath was a godsend and helped me realize that it was all of me that needed treating. Once I was able to 'get it' I was on my way to recovery. He gave me easy body tapping exercises that take no more than 5 minutes, I do them in the shower every morning. And of course, my diet. No gluten. No dairy. And I feel it when I cheat. I took many supplements whose names I forget and the only thing that I have taken consistently over the last 2 years is bugleweed. I get it in tincture and capsule. It tastes nasty!!

I've gone from being 160lbs at the beginning down to 120lbs within a few months and 2 years later I am back up to 145lbs. My biggest complaint is my lack of muscle and that seems to be getting a little bit better due to my weight gain. No bulging eyes, my HR is about 80, high but certainly not where it was at 130. I sleep. I avoid gluten like the plague.

I hope everyone reading this can take a step back and think thru what Jen said and how there is a better way to get better!!

Replied By Butterfly15 (Westport, Ct) on 12/13/2015

Hi Jen or anyone who can offer suggestions,

I was on Earth Clinic and came across your insightful and very informative responses however I would like some guidance on my personal experience.

I was diagnosed unofficially one month ago with GD only because I did not want to be diagnosed with Radioactive uptake however my doctor was pretty certain based on my symptoms that I had GD.

I am now on Methimazole 30mg/day, Metoprolol 50 MG per day and Eliquis a blood thinner for prevention of a stroke since I have atrial fibrillation.

My question is, my endo has said to NOT take iodine while on these meds however, I have read on various articles that iodine can and should be taken for hyperthyroidism. So should I take iodine in combination with these meds or should I stop the meds then take iodine. Also it would seem some of these meds state one should not stop abruptly using as it can cause problems?

Also, if I am able to use iodine with the meds, does it make sense to also take the other supplements like thymus, selenium Etc?

I wish I had a naturopath to go to, never been to one, I live in Westport, CT... If you can advise on how to find a reliable one?

My major issue with me in particular is my heart beats like a race horse however I have appeared to have settled down overall, heart included these past four days.

Many many Thanks, :)

Replied By Jamie (Twin Bridges, Mt) on 12/19/2015

Hi Jen. I have recently been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and won't see the endo in Missoula until January 14. My GP feels it is Graves due to having high antibody and my radioactive uptake test.

Can you tell me who your naturopath is? I am only 1.25 hours from Bozeman and I am desperate to help myself naturally.

I am on 10 mg of Methimazole 3 x per day right now. My heart rate was so high that I had to do something. Do you know if I can take any of the herbs and or supplements while methimazole?

Any thoughts from you or anyone else in the group would be greatly appreciated.

Replied By Kimm (Wss, Mt) on 02/03/2016

I see Dr. Joe Holcomb in Kalispell. He is a Naturopath and has done wonders for my Graves Disease and Adrenal Fatigue. He treats me by symptoms not labs. I cannot stress enough how much he has done for me!!!!

Replied By Grace (Portland) on 09/09/2017

Medical doctors range interpretation of lab tests, is different than naturopathic doctors. My MD is also an ND he told me that some people need higher levels of certain vitamins to feel good beyond what the range suggests. When an ND see you are headed in the direction of getting low in vitamin they will have you supplement this is preventive medicine. Many times it is best to go on food elimination diet, and get vitamin and micro-nutrient test to check for deficiencies. Working with an ND has proved to most beneficial I would never remove an organ when it was unnecessary in this case

Entire Thread

You must be logged in to love this post! Please sign in:

You must be logged in to follow this post! Please sign in: