(underactive thyroid)

Hypothyroidism can be caused by two different glandular imperfections; one is deficient hormone synthesis by the thyroid gland itself, the other is insufficient production by the pituitary gland of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). There may be a combination of both.

Causes

¨      Nutrient deficiencies; the main nutrient for production of thyroid hormone is iodine. A deficiency of this will therefore lead most quickly to the symptoms of hypothyroidism. A deficiency of vitamin E has been known to reduce absorption of iodine by up to 95%. This is therefore of importance. The amino acid tyrosine is the other main component of thyroid hormone. A deficiency will therefore be a problem. Vitamin A and zinc are contributory nutrients.

¨      Drug‑type diet pills; dexedrine etc, artificially increase metabolic rate and reduce appetite. Because of their distorting effect on the hormonal system, they will cause incorrect functioning of the thyroid gland, causing either under‑activity or over‑activity.

Symptoms

¨      The most obvious physical sign in severe cases is goitre, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland. It enlarges itself in order to produce more thyroid hormone.

¨      Metabolic rate; this is  a decreased utilisation of all types of food; carbohydrates, fat and protein. This in turn causes lassitude and weight gain. There is an intolerance to cold. A dangerous aspect of this is that triglyceride (fat)  and cholesterol levels are increased, leading to a potential danger of atherosclerosis (furring up of the arteries). Oedema may result from increased tissue permeability, which is caused by a reduced ability of the body to incorporate proteins and fatty acids into tissues and cell walls.

¨      Hair, Skin and Nails: Dry, rough skin is likely, with coarse or brittle hair. Nails may be thin and brittle.

¨      Depression and inability to concentrate normally result.

¨      Muscle fatigue and pain, constipation and shortness of breath are other symptoms.

¨      Apathy and general tiredness.

¨      Headaches and skin problems.

Treatment

Diet

One of the nutrients necessary for production of thyroid hormone is iodine. Certain foods contain substances  (goitrogens) which prevent the absorption of iodine. These are mainly cabbage, turnips, peanuts and soya beans. These foods should not be eaten raw, so coleslaw, a delicacy to some, should be avoided. Cooking destroys the goitrogens, so the cooked forms are acceptable.

Exercise

Increases production and secretion of thyroid hormone, and also increases metabolic rate, thus helping to reduce the weight gain.

Supplements

Iodine and tyrosine are the main constituents of thyroid hormone. These are therefore the main nutritional requirements. The list of suggested supplements is therefore as follows:

¨      Iodine; 200‑300mcg per day (often as kelp)

¨      Tyrosine; 250mg per day between meals

¨      Vitamin A; 10,000iu per day

¨      Zinc (picolinate); 20‑30mg per day

¨      Vitamin E; 400iu per day

¨      B complex; 50mg of each vitamin per day. Vitamin B1 is particularly important to avoid oedema.

¨      Vitamin C; 1000‑2000mg per day.

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