Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I suspect that I am showing signs and symptoms of hypothyroid and/or hypoadrenal function. Several of the signs and symptoms for both issues apply to me. However, all my blood tests have come back normal. I am otherwise very healthy and maintain a very healthful, nutritious diet. Which of these do I address first? How and why? Thank you kindly for your insight!” — Tina N., Omaha, NE

A. Dear Tina, The problem with diagnosing hypothyroidism/hypoadrenalism is that most physicians rely completely on a blood test called the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test for diagnosing the condition. However, this test tends to be grossly inaccurate and can overlook a majority of low thyroid function diagnoses. The other problem with thyroid hormone testing is the range that is considered “normal.” Some people may have multiple symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, but because the results are within what is considered “normal” for most people, no treatment is initiated. Physicians would be better off treating the patient, not the number.

For best results, I believe you need to support both adrenal and thyroid function at the same time. Most people who are affected by hypothyroidism are eventually going to experience adrenal insufficiency because when the thyroid gland is underactive, the adrenals are then called upon to help keep the individual in a harmonious healthy balance.

Look for an adrenal support formula that contains DHEA, adrenal extract, L-tyrosine, licorice, P-5-P and Rehmannia root extract, along with other adrenal-healthy ingredients. Take 1 to 2 capsules of this formula three times daily. The adrenal glands are responsible for secreting important hormones, including cortisol, that help the body respond to stress. Many of us are living lives full of stressful events – work, family, commuting, finances and more. All this stress may cause our adrenal glands to work overtime, leading to what is often called adrenal fatigue, or adrenal exhaustion. In cases of adrenal fatigue, the production of cortisol by the adrenal glands drops. This can lead to a lack of energy, weight gain, sugar cravings, and reliance on stimulants like caffeine to get moving every day.

I would also recommend looking for a thyroid support formula that contains iodine and the amino acid L-tyrosine. These two nutrients are required to produce thyroxin, the important hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Together, intake of iodine and L-tyrosine can keep the thyroid nourished and prevent goiter, hypothyroidism, and a multitude of symptoms associated with low thyroid hormone levels. I suggest taking 2 to 4 capsules of this formula daily at breakfast.

While it looks like you are already following a healthy diet, I would also suggest checking out my diet as it is described on my website: Terry’s Traditional Diet. You may find some additional tips to help further refine your diet.

Keep in mind that while you may see changes within several weeks – be patient – it may take up to 3-6 months to fully restore adrenal and thyroid function. Good luck!

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally