Thyroid Dysfunction

Over 52 million Americans have a thyroid problem, and that number represents just the ones that have a thyroid dysfunction diagnosis. Many health-care providers like myself believe that there are many others that are experiencing symptoms of a thyroid disorder, but have not yet gotten the help they need. I suspect the problem is a result of not getting the proper testing.

The TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is usually the gold standard for testing thyroid; however, looking at Free T3, Free T4, rT3 (reverse T3), and Thyroid Antibodies would give one a clearer picture of what is going on with the thyroid and how best to treat the problem, if one exist. The thyroid hormones drive the metabolism and is utilized in all biochemical processes in the body. Keeping the thyroid hormones balanced is essential to proper metabolic health for all.

However, women are more prone to thyroid problems and especially women who are in late perimenopause or menopause. Let me teach you about thyroid testing, the different thyroid problems, and how to approach treatment of each in the chapter on thyroid in my book, You, GOD, Hormones, and Health.

The Scoop on Poop

Most people do not realize the importance of the digestive system in their overall general health. Many holistic health-care providers such as myself believe that the majority of disease processes begin in the intestines and by taking really good care of that system, the prevention of many disease processes can be thwarted in the first place.

There are many issues that can cause digestive problem, but one clue that the digestive system is not working properly is by taking note of the frequency, color, and consistency of elimination of waste from the body. Most believe that if they are eliminating once a day, not experiencing too much gas or reflux, and feel decent energy that all is well and that the digestive system is working properly.

Not so! One bowel movement a day is just not enough to keep the digestive system cleansed and results in a constipated state. Most holistic providers would agree that anything less than two to three bowel movements per day is less than ideal and creates a toxic situation in the colon which may lead to acute or chronic illness. Your knowledge of how to care for your intestinal system is one of the most important pieces of information you can own in the prevention of disease. Believe me, this is one area where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take time to read the chapter on digestion in my book, You, GOD, Hormones, and Health.