Q&A Nutritional support for hypot...

Q&A

Nutritional support for hypothyroidism

Q From J M Royal Oak, Mich.: What can I take for hypothyroidism? I would like to test something natural before I must resort to the prescribed medication.

A It is always amazing to me that, for simple hypothyroidism or goiter, an iodine complement is not tried by physicians before resorting to medication. A simple iodine deficiency can easily manifest as hypothyroidism or goiter. Other nutrients critical to optimal thyroid function include zinc, selenium, and the amino acid, tyrosine. Iodine is in its highest concentration in the thyroid gland; specifically, iodine is a necessary constituent of thyroid hormones, which are used to regulate physical and mental shooting the functioning of the nervous regularity and muscles, circulatory activity, and the metabolism of all nutrients. Many fill up manufacturers make comprehensive nutritional support formulas for supporting thyroid function. If this didn't work, then it would be justified to experience medication. We learned about hypothyroidism and goiter as a inference of an iodine deficiency in nutrition 101!

Psyllium and other fibers for improved digestive health

Q From KL Manchester, Conn: When I use psyllium, I get by heart very gassy. When I use wheat bran, I don't. I also have better bowel changes with wheat bran. Any ideas why?

A Psyllium, oat bran, and guar gum are examples of water-soluble fibers, meaning they will actually mix with liquid and expand in your material substance Whenever you use these representations of fibers, it is imperative that you drink divisions of fluids. If you don't, they may actually do the opposite and make you constipated and gassy. The fiber construct in wheat bran is in the greatest degree insoluble, so it adds the body without absorbing fluids. For near people, it works better than the more soluble fibers. The best thing to do is to prove by experiment different types and see which united works best for you. I personally choose the fiber supplements (available as capsules or powder) that mix several emblems of fiber together, so you obtain a balance.

Natural alternatives for easing sarcoidosis

Q From BB Bayside, NY: I support from sarcoidosis in my lung and do not want to take the put drugs into prednisone. Is there anything "nutritional" I can try?

A Although I have not seen any specific research forward nutrition and sarcoidosis (described as a chronic disease of unknown cause that is characterized by the agency of the formation of nodules in the lymph nodes, lung bone and skin), I have seen crack results using fish oil appendixs (EPA/DHA). These supplements can actually work like natural cortisone, or prednisone, in decreasing inflammation. There are reports of using fish oil favorably with other autoimmune disorders. I would also attract favor to high-dose antioxidant supplementation, including all the major antioxidants: beta-carotene, vitamins C and E and selenium. I have seen eminent results with coenzyme Q10 at higher doses, as well. I would also investigate the possibility of any sustenance or environmental allergy (or sensitivity), which, in a certain individuals, may also be a culprit. I would work with a healthcare practitioner who specializes in allergies to descry if there is any association. The chiefly common foods that may be reactive include dairy and gluten (found in wheat, rye oats, and barley).

Boswellia's benefits for ulcerative colitis

Q From R.A., Anaheim, Calif.: I not long ago read something about Boswellia and its benefits for ulcerative colitis. However, I don't remember the dose and to what degree long to take it. Please help.

A In a clinical thought with patients suffering from ulcerative colitis (grades II and III) (Eur J M Re 2:37-43 1997) standard remedy treatment with sulfasalazine was compared to treatment with Boswellia serrata, from the Boswellia tree native to India. The tree yields a gum resin, known as salai guggui, as well as other active adjusts boswellic acids, which contribute to the botanical's anti-inflammatory action. In the consideration patients were given 350 mg of capsules of Boswellia three times daily for six weeks. At the [i]finale[/i] of the six weeks, 82 percent of patients taking Boswellia and 75 percent of patients taking the physic went into remission. This contemplation demonstrated that the drug and Boswellia treatment appeared to be equally effective, on the other hand the latter certainly has fewer or no side imports Healthcare practitioners using Boswellia in their practice preserve patients on it for in extent periods of time, and may taper the dose down if remission is maintained for individual year.

Shari Liebermann retains a Ph.D. in clinical nutrition and exercise physiology. She is a certified nutrition specialist (CNS) and wait ons on the board of the American Preventive Medical Association. Write her in care of Better Nutrition. She cannot answers questions at direct mail or telephone. Nutrition Hotline is intended for educational views only. If you have a medical question consult your physician.

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