Q. Dear Terry, “I’ve been having symptoms of low thyroid, but my thyroid labs were all normal. I know friends who have been in a similar situation and have used natural things to help their thyroid. What would you recommend for helping the thyroid even if labs are normal?”– Lynne S., Worcester, MA

A. Dear Lynne, I believe avoiding soy and fluoridated tap water are very important for thyroid health. I also think dietary changes are very effective for a wide variety of health conditions. I would start by removing dairy products (with the exception of cream, butter, and eggs), sugar, soft drinks, and all grains – especially gluten – from your diet. For more information, you can review my diet under “Terry Recommends.” For additional information, I also recommend visiting the following websites: www.ketogenic-diet-resource.com, www.drperlmutter.com, and www.dietdoctor.com.

To help the thyroid gland function optimally it requires two raw materials to produce hormones: iodine and L-tyrosine. Supplemental iodine is available in different forms, each of which affects specific tissues in the body. Potassium and sodium iodide are best absorbed by the thyroid. Breast tissue uses iodine most efficiently in the molecular form. Because of this, you need a supplement that includes more than one form of the mineral. The best formula provides three forms of iodine: sodium iodide, potassium iodide, and molecular iodine – at levels that can actually make a real difference.

Additionally, you may also want to consider another mineral that is necessary for thyroid health, selenium. While selenium is found in dietary sources, sometimes people need an extra mineral “push” to get their thyroid hormones to activate properly. You could take 15 mg of iodine, 200 mg of L-tyrosine, and 150 mcg of selenium every morning before breakfast.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally