Around 27 million Americans and 250 million people worldwide will be affected by low thyroid function or hypothyroidism according to the According to the American Thyroid Association . One in 8 women will struggle with a thyroid problem in her lifetime, and up to 90% of all thyroid problems are autoimmune in nature, the most common of which is Hashimoto’s. As diseases go, you would think that it would be a cinch to diagnose and pretty straightforward to treat.
The number of people suffering from hypothyroidism continues to rise each year. Levothyroxine is the 4th highest selling drug in the U.S. THE 4TH HIGHEST SELLING DRUG!
Every Cell in your body responds to your thyroid hormones. These hormones have a direct impact on every major system in your body.
People are struggling with more chronic disease, chronic pain and are more obese than ever before in the history of America.
The thyroid is a hormone-producing gland that regulates our body’s metabolism— it affects our major body functions for example your heart rate and energy levels. The thyroid gland determines the rate in which your body produces the energy from nutrients and oxygen. The thyroid gland is located in the middle of the lower neck.
Although the thyroid gland is relatively small, it produces a hormone that influences every cell, tissue and organ in the body. Imagine that!
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
The thyroid gland sits on the front of your neck and produces a hormone that impacts EVERY SINGLE CELL, TISSUE, and ORGAN in your entire body. How does it do this? The thyroid gland is responsible for maintaining your body temperature, heart rate, and controlling your metabolism. The thyroid gland is very sensitive, meaning that too much thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and too little TSH can cause detrimental effects throughout your body. You see, the hypothalamus in your brain (a very small gland that is a BIG deal) produces thyroid releasing hormone (or TRH). {When functioning properly, your thyroid gland and hypothalamus become a feedback loop that constantly keep your thyroid levels in “balance.” Think of it as a checks and balances system.} TRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release TSH. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to actually release the actual thyroid hormones (T3 & T4). T3 & T4 levels are monitored by the pituitary gland which (based upon the amount in free circulation in the bloodstream) either increases or decreases your TRH. And the cycle continues.
So, what happens in those with hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism can cause some symptoms — for example like low sex drive and constipation — many of us are to embarrassed to mention this to our doctors or discuss it with other hypothyroidism suffers. “Nobody wants to talk about the strange, embarrassing things happening to our bodies,” says Salila Kurra, MD, an endocrinologist and the medical director at Columbia Adrenal Center in New York City.
The good news is that simple modifications to your lifestyle, these symptoms are nearly easy to resolve. Here are some of the solutions to your most privately asked questions.
5 Hypothyroidism Symptoms
1.Why do I have a Low Sex drive?
You’re not alone if you’ve lost that frisky feeling. Hormonal changes take a big toll on your sex drive. Research shows that nearly a third of women and 15% of men lack the desire to have sex regularly. But there are things you can do to try to put the sizzle back into your sex life.
Unfortunately, one of the major side effects of an underactive thyroid is a low sex drive. In fact, according to a 2013 study in the Journal of Endocrinology Investigation, female sexual dysfunction occurs in nearly 50 percent of women with hypothyroidism.
Medications, emotional well-being, quality of touch and sex, relationship difficulties, hypothyroidism , and age can all affect libido. While a sex drive isn’t uncommon it can become problematic in a persons relations or to their self-esteem.
“A women’s drive is so complex that biology is only one factor that drives sex drive,” says Jean Koehler, PhD, a licensed family and marriage therapist in Louisville, Ky., and past president of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.
WHAT TO DO: There are a variety of things women can do in your everyday life that can help boost your libido and revive up your sex life.
More sleep can lead to more sex, according to a 2015 study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine. The researchers found that women who got an extra hour of sleep were 14 percent more likely to have sex with a partner the following day.
There are three reasons exercise is excellent for a women’s your sex life: first, if you’re exercising regularly, you’ll be feeling better, look better, and have an all-around better body image. Second, exercise increases blood flow both short- and long-term to your sexual organs (and the rest of your body), as well as increases lubrication. Third, exercise is the best way to slash stress-which is the number one libido killer for women.
Taking time out of your life to develop a hobby to relieve stress, begin eating more nutrient based foods, working to improving your relationships and perhaps talking to a therapist.
2.Why are my periods so excessive, irregular or prolonged?
According to Womenshealth.gov , too much or too little thyroid hormone can make your periods very light, heavy, or irregular. Thyroid disease also can cause your periods to stop for several months or longer, a condition called amenorrhea. If your body’s immune system causes thyroid disease, other glands, including your ovaries, may be involved.
WHAT TO DO: Sometimes just simply treating your hypothyroidism should improve your menstruation symptoms but if not always speak with your ob-gyn or primary care doctor.
3.Why am I so bloated , bags under my eyes or puffiness in my face?
Puffiness around the eyes caused by hypothyroidism can take a while to go away after treatment has started. having hypothyroidism can also cause a drop in your body temperature, which can then lead to fluid retention in your face.
WHAT TO DO: Along with getting your thyroid hormone regulated with medication, try to limit your sodium intake, avoid alcohol, Stay hydrated, Drink lots of water, avoid caffeine , use a cold compress and try antihistamines.
4.Constipation
Having difficulty with your bowl movements is another effect of hypothyroidism. Constipation, in fact, is one of the most common symptoms. Without enough thyroid hormone, many of the body’s functions slow down this includes your digestive tract which can weaken the contraction of these muscles causing the stool to move more slowly.
WHAT TO DO: Changing your diet and healing your gut is a great way to help become regular again. Eliminating gluten and dairy along with adding more fiber is a great way to start. The average adult needs between 20 and 35 grams of fiber a day to help get things moving. Keep in mind that you dont want to over do it there fore to avoid bloating and cramping, increase your fiber intake gradually and made sure to drink plenty of fluids. Adding Omega-3 oils that will help lubricate the intestines so stool can move more easily through your colon. Add a quality probiotic to your diet because beneficial bacteria are necessary to properly digest food and to absorb nutrients. Starting your day off with warm lemon water to stimulate the muscles that line the intestinal walls where it can contract and keep the stool moving and lemons also alkalizes the body while also helping flush out toxins. Magnesium was also a real life-changer for me. Magnesium is a natural relaxation mineral. Did you know that sometimes constipation is a common symptom of a magnesium deficiency.
5. Hair loss and thinning hair
Hair loss is one the most frustrating and embarrassing symptoms many of us experience with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis disorders. Healthy hair not only makes you feel more confident, but it also shows everyone else that you care about your health and well-being
Although this is just a small part of one of the many symptoms that I have to deal with having hypothyroidism and I’m certainly not going to take this laying down.
In many cases the imbalance of your thyroid hormone is responsible for the hair loss. However, there are other root causes why we are losing our hair.
Also, human scalp hair does not grow continuously. Every hair follicle (the unit of hair production) undergoes phases of growth, during which hair lengthens, followed by a period of rest (the telogen phase). During telogen, the hair will shed and replaced by a new hair.
The good news is that in many circumstances you can stop the hair loss and it will start to grow back but the bad news is that it could take some time until after you’ve figured out what is the underlying reason for the hair loss and its not always just your thyroid hormones.
Here are some 0ther Factors Which Can Cause Hair Loss In Thyroid Patients
Sluggish thyroid which includes TSH/T3/T4/RT3 numbers being off
Hashimotos Disease which includes elevated Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) antibodies and Antithyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb)
Low Ferritin levels
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies (like too much vitamin A or too little vitamin D or iron)
Alopecia
Not eating enough protein or good, clean fat
Female hormone imbalances (pregnancy/menopause, etc.)
High levels of chronic stress
Blood sugar imbalances and surges
Improper hair care or toxic hair care
Medications (can be a side effect)
WHAT TO DO:
Boar bristle brush-The boar bristle brush gently massages the scalp, increasing blood flow and unclogging the hair follicles. One of the factors in hair growth is blood flow to the hair follicles. Without blood flow, your hair cannot grow. This can often be a cause of hair loss and slow growing hair. It’s also Conditions hair, Cleans hair, Prevents hair breakage and frizz, and Balances your scalps oil production.
I also use castor oil its rich in vitamins and fatty-acids, castor oil promotes better hair growth and helps nourish and hydrate the skin. 100% NATURAL AND ORGANIC: Produced with the highest quality standards using real castor oil, sourced directly from organic artisanal farmers in India.
2.With the help of my functional doctor I addressed my vitamins and Minerals Deficiencies that Cause Hair Loss. Come to find out I was low on iron, vitamin d and magnesium.
It’s not always possible to obtain all the nutrients you need for healthy hair from your diet, and if you’ve been suffering from an illness or stress, your hair may not be looking its best. In this case, the simple solution is to take a daily nutritional supplement, so that you can ensure you’re getting all the aforementioned nutrients in one easy-to-take product.
You also need
Vitamin C can help support hair growth by assisting with collagen production and with the absorption of non-hem iron.
8 B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12) that support a number of body functions such as the production of healthy cells. B vitamins, particularly biotin (B7), may support hair growth by strengthening the keratin structure of the hair shaft, the part the hair structure that is visible.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin and a potent antioxidant that helps prevent damage to cells and tissues caused by free radicals. This vitamin helps support hair growth by promoting good circulation in the scalp and helping transport oxygen and other nutrients to the hair follicles.
Vitamin A supports hair growth by helping to keep the skin scalp in healthy condition. Keep in mind that too much of this vitamin may over stimulate hair follicles, causing hair to reach the end of its growth cycle prematurely.
Vitamin D is to maintain healthy levels of calcium and phosphorous in the blood, vitamin D also strengthens hair follicles.
Iron supports hair growth by promoting healthy circulation and transporting oxygen and other essential nutrients to hair follicles.
Magnesium’s role in supporting blood flow it helps support optimal nutrient delivery to the hair follicles.
Omega-3 fatty acid supports hair growth by supporting a healthy inflammatory response and improving the flow of oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles.
Zinc supports hair growth by promoting the health of hair follicles. Studies show it may also help to promote hair re-growth in some cases of alopecia.
Selenium supports healthy hair growth by maintaining healthy hormone levels and boosting the immune system.
3.Reducing my over all Stress and started Addressing my Spiritual Health
Stress can hinder your healing process. I know its hard to do but try to stop holding on to bitterness, unforgiveness and resentment. I’ve been hurt by family members and friends who I just had to let go because of their toxic relationship. You see, toxic family members or friends are negative energy – they drain you of your happiness and love to create drama, often at your own expense. Sometimes the best way to cope with this is to completely cut ties and walk away forever. A bond between family members or friends should be supportive, enduring, loving and respectful not two-faced, back stabbing or argumentative.
You can also Identify Your Stress Triggers where you can start to learn to manage those that area. Get Some Exercise, meditate and Create a place of Gratitude.
4.Getting my thyroid medication correct
You really must get your Hypothyroidism and Hashimotos under control and making sure your TSH, T3, T4, Reverse T3, and Antibodies are stabilized. Hair loss is directly affected by these hormones. Thyroid hormone also has a direct effect on the cycling of hair called anagen, catagen, and telogen. I use to take Synthroid which later I found out that it has fillers in it that I am allergic to and it also has dairy, GMO sugar and different colored food dyes in different dosages. Taking this medication triggered inflammation in my body because I just couldn’t tolerate the dairy or any of the synthetic chemicals and certainly not anything with GMO’s that was laced in it.
5.Adding Lots of Bone Broth and Collagen
Bone Broth is nourishing in so many ways. Bone broth is a great source of collagen, a protein your body needs to accelerate healing from the inside out. Collagen is the protein best known for keeping your skin looking young, and maintaining healthy bones, joints, and teeth.
I also added organic apple cider vinegar and MCT Oil derived only from Coconut Oil. This helped to give my body the extra fatty acids that is was lacking plus the gut health :MCT’s (in particular Lauric Acid) have antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help promote gut health. Another great thing about MCTs is that they are capable of reducing “bad bacteria” without harming or removing “good bacteria.” That’s important, considering we need the good kind for intestinal health and digestive functioning.
By adding a little apple cider vinegar you adding some amazing compounds that will increase hair growth. The gelatin and collagen that is in the broth are what promotes hair and nail growth. Broth is also jam-packed with vital nutrients like calcium, magnesium, potassium, silicon, sulfur and phosphorus in very absorbable forms. Glycine present in broth will help you sleep and all of the above nutrients will help your hair to grow thick and appear very shiny as well as rejuvenate your skin.
Premium MCT Oil derived only from Coconut Oil
6.I am careful with my hair products now. No sulfates, no gluten etc. I use a shampoo that has biotin and collagen in it. I only wash my hair every 3rd night.
Renpure Biotin and Collagen Shampoo, 32 Ounce
8. I am a strict AIP protocol diet regime.
Your health doesn’t have to be a difficult situation but a positive realization that things need to change. This new lifestyle change has many parts to it and I hope you will embrace not only the physical but the spiritual awakening. Common food intolerances that are known to trigger inflammation are eliminated in this Keto AIP protocol are Nightshades, Eggs, Grains (gluten), Dairy, Legumes, Corn, Soy, Dairy and lectins.
9. Check out the medications you are taking some medications promote hair loss. it’s written in the fine print or simply google it.
10. Hair regrowth spray
16oz. bottle with spray nozzle
1 TBSP of witch hazel
7 drops of lavender oil
7 drops of rosemary oil
3 drops of Thyme oil
3 drops of cedar wood oil
8 oz. filtered water
spray on roots and scalp before bed. Massage through.
Just like you, my story is unique. For so many wasted years, I was a shamed of my struggles, particularly with my body image and embarrassed about my mental health. I couldn’t seem to manage my anxiety nor my OCD. I found myself unsure by my imperfect journey and it seemed for many years that I actually lost myself on this stretch of road that I’ve been traveling on. I didn’t like what I seen in the mirror, all the mistakes I’ve made, my flaws, my inability to control the chaos in my head and most importantly the struggles with my weight. I’ve learned that the mistakes where lessons to get me to where I am today and I couldn’t become who I needed to be if I wouldn’t have traveled that uncertain road. I had to stop being concerned with what was behind me! It was behind me for a reason. I’m actually a better person because of it. I dusted myself off and keep going. I started to understand that everything that glitters isn’t gold. I couldn’t be fooled by those SHINY OBJECTS. People that you meet don’t always let you know about their failures. Nine times out of ten they only allow you to see what they want you to see and for you to believe their always winning. I had to learn to stay in my lane and I knew that I would arrive. Anything that I had missed along the journey wasn’t meant for me. I looked myself in the mirror and told myself that: Someone wants what I have!
That MY gift that I am sitting on isn’t mine to keep. I needed to,” Write that book”! My gift means the world to someone else. I knew this in my heart. I felt it in my soul and GOD allowed me to feel it in my spirit.
This blog gives me an opportunity to bond with YOU, and my community. I am happy you are here. Let me say it again, I am happy that you are here. I’ve read countless times where people are asking me about losing large amount of hair in their shower, severe dry skin, unable to lose weight and although they might have bought the products from whole foods, it’s just not working! So, it’s my JOY to turn your issue into a solution that is written in many of my books. Sometimes in life we just need clarity. You have to step out of your comfort zone and focus on where your path is headed. You were born with the capacity of abundance. You need to clear away any of the emotional, mental and energetic debris that is in the way of your ability to see who you really are in order to create the life you really deserve.
What the F#@%, Hypothyroidism?: Why your thyroid is conspiring against you
A Survivor’s Cookbook Guide to Kicking Hypothyroidism’s Booty
Hey You, Beautiful:
Let’s not forget that we are all different. Each one of us are unique and biochemically individually wired and what works for one person may not work for another. We are extremely complex beings and each person should be valued independently. My reason for having a leaky gut, inflammation and an autoimmune disorder might not be the same as your reason. Each day we encounter different things in our home and travels. Every Cell in your body responds to the nutrients you consume, the products you put on your body, the house hold chemicals in the environment and also what you may purchase to clean your home. All of these things have a direct impact on your hormones and in return your hormones have a direct impact on every major system in your body. Life isn’t a 1 size fits all solution. Allow my blogs and my books be just one of your many resources that is empowering you to try to help make sense of it all.
Xoxoxo,
A.L. Childers
Disclaimer
The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements. Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek. I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.
Audrey Childers is a published author, blogger, freelance journalist and an entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in research and editorial writing. She is also the creator and founder of the website the hypothyroidismchick.com. Where you can find great tips on everyday living with hypothyroidism. She enjoys raising her children and being a voice for optimal human health and wellness. She is the published over 10 books that aren’t listed here but some of her books are : A survivors cookbook guide to kicking hypothyroidism booty, Reset your Thyroid, The Ultimate guide to healing hypothyroidism and A survivors cookbook guide to kicking hypothyroidism booty: the slow cooker way.
Hypothyroidism: The Beginners Guide: How to stop surviving and start thriving
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