Natural is Always Better...or is it? - Page 2

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Feb 4, 2000

Body builders to lose fat and build muscle also use thyroid stimulants. The FDA recently issued a warning against TRIAX a popular supplement. According to the FDA statement, this product contains the thyroid hormone triiodothyroacetic acid and has been found to cause abnormal thyroid function and may even result in heart attack or stroke. Someone taking the recommended daily dose of TRIAX could be getting up to 10 more of the hormone than normal.

Health food stores sell other forms of thyroid as “all natural”, containing the complete thyroid gland of some animal. The trouble with these supplements is that there is no regulation. One bottle may contain more or less thyroid hormone and in different combinations than others depending on the animal and the state that the thyroid was in when it was processed. If you are looking for a “natural” thyroid supplement, talk to your doctor about Armour thyroid which is quality controlled to contain consistent ratios of T4 to T3 and available by prescription.

With thyroid disease as with many other autoimmune diseases, you want to avoid those supplements that promise to stimulate the immune system. Think about it. Your immune system is already attacking your body do you really want to stimulate the attack? If you take something like echinachea to stimulate your immune system, you may be increasing your problems not solving them.

High doses of melatonin may decrease the level of thyroid hormone in your body. Kelp contains high doses of iodine, which may stimulate the thyroid. DHEA may also stimulate the thyroid. St. John’s wart is promoted as a cure for depression but should not be taken with prescription anti-depressants.

Be cautious about the claims of any supplement. Do your research. Find a knowledgeable herbologist or natural practitioner that is willing to work with you and your endocrinologist. If you want to try any supplement, talk with your doctor first. Do not use them in place of your prescribed medication.

Just because something is natural does not mean it is good for you.

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