I had to meaning to write a blog on hypothyroidism, and I saw that the hormone expert, Natasha Turner, was on Marilyn Dennis. I tuned in and learned some interesting new things about treating hypothyroidism. Check out todays show here. Here are some of the main points discussed on the show:

• Thyroid function has a huge impact on how you look and feel every day, the thyroid gland is a large endocrine gland in the neck
• It is very common to have thyroid disruption, the thyroid releases hormones that impact metabolism of every cell in the body and affects the function of many other symptoms
• Hypothyroidism slows every cell in the body down including metabolism.  The TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) test will evaluate whether your thyroid is underactive.
• Symptoms include extreme fatigue/fogginess, lowered mood/depression, low motivation,  unexplained weight gain (a significant amount in about 3 months, weight gain despite exercise and diet), hair loss, irregular periods, constipation (ie metabolic slow down), feeling cold (slow metabolism means you can't stay warm).
• Women taking hormone replacement may experience symptoms of hypothyroidism due to high levels of estrogen or low levels of progesterone, be sure to keep your health monitored when changing medication
• Go see your doctor even if you have one symptom, and get your thyroid checked. Also ask for ferritin and b12 to be checked, as some of these deficiencies have similar symptoms. Be sure to get your blood work result.
• Normal thyroid function is 0.5-2 , the grey zone 2-4.5, above 4.5 is qualified as hyperthyroidism.
• If you are in the grey zone you may have symptoms of hypothyroidism, but the doctor may not recognize you as having hypothyroidism

Natasha Turners 4 Week Thyroid Boosting Plan

• Week 1: This week is all about replenishing nutrients and restoring hormones. The first two weeks of the thyroid boosting diet are a hypo allergenic, anti-inflammatory diet. We want to keep cortisol levels low, lots of greens, healthy fats, chicken, fish, turkey, shell fish, nuts. No red meats or pork, no citrus fruits or dairy, chocolate, alcohol, wheat or grains. Estrogen suppress thyroid function so avoid soy products. Try calcium gluconate, iodine, and probiotic supplements. Take Ashwagandha  if you are stressed to lower cortisol levels.
• Week 2: Add in one serving of potatoes or gluten free grains, at dinner preferably. Quinoa is the best choice. Continue on with week 1 diet. You should start to have more energy this week.
• Week 3: This week is very important. Any allergens need to be removed from your diet due to stress on the body. Try citrus first and see if there is any reaction such as, tired, stiff, achy, bloated, irritable. Try beef, cheese, yogurt, grains. Try one food each day and test reactions. If you have any inflammatory response, you need to cut these foods out of your diet, you can re-try at 3 to 4 months.
• Week 4...and beyond: eat for optimal hormonal balance. Eat protein at every meal, but not the types that cause problems (as tested in week three). Have a Quest bar or detox shake if you are in a hurry. Lots of greens, water, and sleep area always recommended.

She loves Quest bars as much as I do...

Natasha's recipes for the diet can be found here