According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, "at least 30 million Americans have a thyroid disorder and half-15 million-are silent sufferers who are undiagnosed." The function of the thyroid gland is to take iodine and convert it into T3 and T4; the thyroid hormones. The metabolism of every cell in the body is regulated by these thyroid hormones.
So why are there so many people with thyroid disorders? Some sources say it could be genetics or an autoimmune attack. Other sources propose the influence of stress, nutritional deficiencies, or toxins in the environment.
While symptoms associated with hypothyroidism vary, you might experience many or only a few of the following: feeling very tired; neck discomfort or hoarseness; feeling unusually depressed; changes in sense of taste and smell; feeling jittery or anxious; decrease interest in sex; fuzzy brain; changes in bowel function; dry skin; tingling or numbness in muscles or extremities; sleep changes; weight gain; thinning hair; trouble getting pregnant; and elevated cholesterol levels.
What can we do to keep our thyroid glands functioning properly? Besides taking thyroid supplements, changes in diet and lifestyle can have a huge effect. Reduce stress in your life by practicing relaxation. Make sure you are eating enough healthy protein and fats in your diet. Try eliminating sugar from your life (xylitol is great!). Make sure your levels of Vitamin D are normal and increase your intake of Omega 3's.
For more information, follow the link below to Dr.Kharrazian’s website. He is the author of the book "Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? When My Lab Tests Are Normal." http://www.thyroidbook.com