This small gland, located around the throat, ultimately regulates digestion, the metabolism of sugar, fat and protein, temper-ature, nervous system function, heart rate, muscle and bone growth, fertility and skin health.  A delicate balance needs to be struck between adequate metabolism for all of the body’s functions while allowing time for repair and rejuvenation of the body systems.

Low thyroid function is common in today’s society.  This is due in part to stressful lifestyles, lack of nutritious foods and an increase in environmental pollutants.   Weight gain, frequent infections, hair loss, dry skin, cold skin, poor nail growth, high cholesterol, swelling of the hands and feet, menstrual irregularities, goiter, fatigue, an increased need for sleep, decreased initiative, lack of concentration, poor memory, bowel changes, muscle and joint aches, allergies and asthma are all typical signs and symptoms of low thyroid functioning.

Thyroxin is available only by prescription in Canada.  A supplement called Thyroid or Armour thyroid contains both T4 and the more active T3.  This is important for a small percentage of people that cannot convert T4 into T3.  Most thyroid glandular supplements are certified thyroxin- free to eliminate the risk of sending its users into a hyperthyroid state.  The best source for glandular extracts is New Zealand where they are free from pesticides, growth hormones, antibiotics and disease.

To enhance the body’s production of thyroxin without taking thyroxin itself there are several options.  For specific information (dosing, safety issues, etc.) on each supplement follow the link.

Protein intake is important because it contains the amino acid tyrosine, a precursor to thyroxin.

A variety of vitamins and minerals are needed to produce and convert thyroxin into the more potent T3.  These nutrients include iodine, copper, zinc, selenium, vitamin A and vitamin E.

Thyroid glandular is an extract of the thyroid gland of an animal, usually a sheep or cow.  It supports the activity of the thyroid and regulates metabolism.  It may provide its users with a mild increase in energy and stamina.

Dietary considerations for optimizing thyroid functioning include avoiding chlorinated and fluoridated water because they block iodine receptors in the thyroid.  Also avoid broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, peaches, pears, rutabagas, soybeans, onions, spinach and turnips because they suppress thyroid hormone function.