“We are building a web-site detailing our research into ASD from the last five years. It will contain thousands of studies, tables, and other scientific information documenting that ASD is caused by thyroid hormone dysfunction. We have investigated all biochemical findings involved in ASD and traced them to T3 deficiency. Depending upon when this T3 deficiency occurs (i.e., during gestation, neo-natal period, etc.) one will observe the different aspects involved in ASD”—Andreas Schuld, www.bruha.com/fluoride. He has a newsletter—”Parents of Fluoride-Poisoned Children.” Thyroid hormones are closely related to all brain functions and to pancreas function. This common knowledge serves as the basis for the worldwide supplementation program. Healthy humans require iodine, an essential component of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Iodine is vital to so many body functions and to the ability to be free of virus. We have fluoride (in water, toothpaste, and drugs), bromine (in bread), and chlorine (in water) all suppressing/displacing iodine, but according to testing, given enough iodine, these toxins will be displaced and excreted! Lack of iodine causes achlorhydria (lack of stomach acid) that results in a host of digestive problems and eventual protein deficiency. If it should happen that your body becomes saturated with iodine, you will find that there is an increase of moisture in the nose. If this occurs, omit the iodine until the nose is normal. Failure to have adequate iodine leads to insufficient production of these hormones (hypothyroidism), which affect many different parts of the body, particularly muscle, heart, liver, kidney, and the brain. The most devastating of these consequences are on the developing human brain (Venkatesh-Mannar & Dunn, 1995). Many studies have shown that attention deficit and/or hyperactivity disorders in children are linked to changes in the levels of thyroid hormone in the blood, and that irritability and aggressive behavior are linked to thyroid hormone levels and hypothyroidism.
“Another organ that can concentrate iodine is the liver. An enterohepatic circulation of iodine has been reported recently. One patient, with liver fatty infiltration, had varicosities of the esophagus with bleeding. Once she started on iodine for FDB (Fibrous Breast Disease), we noticed that her GI bleeding stopped and the varicose veins of her stomach and esophagus disappeared.
“It is now proven that iodine (Iodoral, Lugol’s in tablet, up to 50 mg day) detoxifies the body of halide compounds, such as bromine and fluoride, and the heavy metals mercury, cadmium, and lead. The bioavailability of a Lugol tablet (Iodoral) containing 12.5 mg elemental iodine was evaluated by measuring 24 hr urine levels of iodide together with the minerals, trace elements, and toxic metals before and after administration of this preparation. The results obtained following iodine supplementation revealed that in some subjects, the urine levels of mercury, lead, and cadmium increased by several fold after just one day of supplementation. For aluminum, this increased excretion was not observed usually until after one month or more on the iodine supplementation. It is also proven that the body has a built-in safety mechanism for iodine overload. It has been shown that at full-body sufficiency, the excess iodine is excreted in the urine as iodide. Our environment is loaded with toxic halides: bromine, and fluoride. Until now, there was no known way to detoxify these thyroid poisons that suppress thyroid function. Iodine therapy now provides a protocol to remove these poisons and restore thyroid function. As a bonus, mercury and lead are removed from the body. Additionally, iodine is needed to restore (maintain) a smooth heartbeat.” - Dr. Bruce West in Health Alert, October 2006.
“Synthroid or thyroid-destructive therapies should never be taken without iodine therapy--something you will never hear from your endocrinologist. If all Thyroidologists and endocrinologists were forced to fluorescence scan their patients’ thyroid glands, they would then have to face up to the damages they are causing to these glands and their patients! In addition to thyroid hormone therapy, all thyroid patients should be on iodine therapy, with the goal to reach a whole-body, iodine sufficiency. When this state is reached, the following results (gathered using sophisticated lab testing, fluorescence screening, clinical measurements, and a host of other high-tech medical testing procedures) have been observed:
“Additionally, through the Iodine Project studies, Dr. Abraham discovered that even patients with complete thyroidectomy (removal of the whole gland) benefited from iodine therapy. Therefore, it became known that iodine not only improved the thyroid gland, but the other target areas of the body where iodine and thyroid hormone are active.
“The doctors in the Project found that patients who achieved iodine sufficiency were often able to resolve diabetes problems without insulin. They could normalize blood pressure without medication. Goiters were resolved. Those taking thyroid hormone medication could greatly reduce or completely eliminate these drugs.” Dr. Bruce West’s December 2005 Newsletter.
Iodine put onto a mosquito bite would kill all bacteria and viruses at the site of the bite within 10-30 seconds making it impossible for any virus or bacteria to multiply and get started --such as in West Nile Fever. Naturally, this applies to tic bites (Lyme’s disease) as well. For many decades in the 1800s, people carried around little bottles of iodine around their necks to use on all occasions. People in mosquito and tic infested areas should think of doing this again. In addition, it has been forgotten vaporized iodine rapidly kills air borne viruses such as polio and SARS viruses.. Used extensively in the forties and fifties it may be of use to explore this approach again. Dr. David Derry, MD.
I, Willis, have suffered palpitations for 30 years. I initially controlled them by supplementing 1500 mg potassium a day, but two years ago, this seemed to not be enough, and I developed “episodes” of frequent palpitations, irregular heartbeat, bradycardia, and tachycardia, some quite frightening. After four months of increasing amounts of IodoralR, using 37.5 mg a day for the last couple of months, I no longer experience these episodes, and rarely notice even a “missed beat”. The beat is like a metronome! I urge you to support the thyroid as spelled out herein.
Dr. Raphael Kellman, MD, The Center for Progressive
Medicine in
The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists
(AACE) now says that a TSH level between 3.0 and 5.0 uU/ml should be
considered suspect. This is a major reversal of the long held view that a
person only has hypothyroidism if their TSH is above 5.0. This is the first
time a conventional
The total T4 and T3 measurements, being influenced by protein alterations, may not accurately represent thyroid function. The free or unbound portion (free T4 or fT4 and free T3 or fT3) more accurately represents what the body’s true thyroid hormone levels are. Levels of free hormone represent the active hormone available to react with cell receptors in the body, but in no way indicate a normal tissue level. T3 is often “normal”, but because of a lack of glutathione, it’s not being utilized in the cells! Anyone who is tested for potential thyroid problems MUST have thyroid antibodies checked as a screening test. Often TSH, free T3, and free T4 are normal but thyroid antibodies are high. This may affect thyroid function and cause hypothyroid symptoms with normal thyroid tests for TSH, T4, and T3. Additionally, elevated immune factors of TNF and IL-6 are found in the whole blood of the autistic. TNF and IL-6 can suppress TSH and raise ACTH. This can throw off the normal interpretation of TSH readings. Melatonin is of value here for it metabolizes hydrogen peroxide radicals by stimulating the production of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase. It is known that melatonin binds mercury and it inhibits TNF(a), thus enhancing production of vital sulfates. It enhances growth hormones, reduces blood pressure, and decreases cortisol levels. Recent data indicate that melatonin inhibits brain glutamate receptors and nitric oxide production thus suggesting that it may exert a neuroprotective and anti-excitotoxic effect.
Stressed-out Mothers, please take serious note: all women, in particular those who had shown individual, low night-levels of melatonin in their saliva, had a very remarkable improvement of latent and unsuspected conditions of low thyroid function (hypothyroidism). In fact, a significant increase of the active thyroid hormone triiodothyronin (T3) was observed in all women independent of their night levels of melatonin, and to a minor extent independent of its precursor thyroxin (T4). The effect of melatonin does not depend on pituitary TSH (thyrotropin stimulating hormone), but on the direct effect of melatonin on the thyroid gland (conversion of T4 into T3, the active hormone).
Additionally, in Hal Huggin’s book, Uninformed Consent, he speaks of mercury binding to iodine and ruining the quality of the thyroid hormone. On page 109, he states, “A person may have adequate levels of T3 and T4, but if the hormones are contaminated, for practical purposes, the person is functionally thyroid deficient.” Bilirubin can inhibit the transport of thyroid into the liver (invitro). Phenol-sulfotransferase is the enzyme the body uses to get rid of bilirubin, and PST is not working properly in most autistic children. A buildup of bilirubin will give a yellowish cast to the skin, which a few of the moms have mentioned. So, the one diagnosing must not rely on lab readings alone, but must carefully consider the presenting symptoms. In final analysis, the bottom line is, “Did the patient respond favorably to thyroid support?” “Even though a TSH level between 3.0 and 5.0 uU/ml is in the normal range, it should be considered suspect since it may signal a case of evolving thyroid underactivity.” (AACE Press Statement, January 18, 2001) A more recent standard puts “normal” at 0.03 to 3.0. There is a new saliva test for thyroid by Diagnos-Techs, Inc. (425) 251-0596.
Once damage to the thyroid takes place, it affects all the other organs—starting with digestion and absorption. Because the thyroid regulates the metabolism—all of the body’s chemical reactions—its malfunction has wide and far-reaching effects. Incorrect diagnosis and treatment results not only in continued physical distress—fatigue, migraines, easy weight gain, dry skin, dry hair, hair loss, fluid retention, brittle nails, and many others—but also leaves one with mental and emotional symptoms such as depression, irritability, anxiety, and panic attacks. Toxins start accumulating in the system. You can have an array of symptoms: Heart disease and its complications, high homocysteine levels, poor circulation (especially to the skin with as little as 20-40% of normal blood supply. This will give a pale face, weight gain/weight loss (depending on the type of metabolism you had to begin with), no appetite or binge eating, bloating, breast problems (cysts, fibrosis, tendency to cancer), skin problems (itching, eczema, psoriasis, acne, hives, and other skin eruptions, skin pallor or yellowing), aching joints, low blood pressure, high cholesterol, low libido, and sensitivity to cold.
The immune system starts to deteriorate because the necessary nutrients are not being absorbed. Repeated ear and urinary tract infections occur, and colds and upper respiratory infections are frequent. This leads to antibiotic use, creating a “leaky gut”, and destroying the essential bacteria, typically causing diarrhea. An extract of Echinacea three times a day in juice will usually enable the body to restore normal function, without the side effects of antibiotics, as will bovine colostrum, Ambrotose AO™, and Phyt•Aloe®. If you must take antibiotics, eat goat yogurt with it or supplement probiotics. That will reduce incidence of diarrhea by half, and protect against a Candida yeast take over. Candida, if allowed to proliferate, creates a multitude of debilitating symptoms. In a child, look for frequent infections, frequent diaper rash, continuous stuffy or runny nose, dark circles under eyes (kids with sulfation problems are prone to get these “allergic shiners”), hyperactivity, or poor attention span. All this results in an IgG imbalance (delayed food allergies), and opens the door to virus and parasite infestation.
As regards hair loss, this is a frequent question. In addition to hypothyroidism, hair loss is one of the prime symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency, cadmium toxicity, Aspartame poisoning (drinking Diet drinks), lysine deficiency, zinc deficiency (white spots on nails), folic acid deficiency, hyperammonemia (too much ammonia), and fatty acid deficiency. Take your pick :-(. Supplementing MSM also seems to cause hair loss when there is heavy metals poisoning, particularly mercury.
Other symptoms of an underactive thyroid are: fatigue, constipation, depression, low body temperature, infertility, menstrual disorders—especially excessive and frequent bleeding contributing to iron deficiency, memory disturbances, concentration difficulties, paranoia, migraines, over-sleeping and/or the inability to sleep due to gastrointestinal discomforts, anemia, “laziness” (no motivation), muscle aches and or weaknesses (low muscle tone, and some are born that way), hearing disturbances (burning, prickly sensations, or noises in the head), slow reaction time and mental sluggishness, labored breathing, hoarseness, speech problems, brittle nails, and poor vision and/or light sensitivity. Iron deficiency decreases body temperature by decreasing norepinephrine (as does a lack of tyrosine/dopamine) and decreasing cellular oxygen, which contributes to the low-body-temperature problem in hypothyroidism. Infants and children with thyroid damage may suffer mental retardation, loss of hearing and speech, or deficits in motor skills. Anemia is frequent in hypothyroidism. Each degree of low body temperature represents a 13% decline in energy levels.
There are several selenoproteins formed and a relationship between SelP and motor co-ordination of mice has been pointed out. In one study, the SelP gene knockout mice developed ataxia with a wide clumsy gait at their third week of life (Schomburg et al. 2003). In the other study, only mice fed a selenium deficient diet lost motor co-ordination. This was prevented by feeding diets containing sufficient amount of selenium. (Hill et al. 2003). As stated elsewhere, selenium is necessary to convert T4 thyroid hormone to T3.
All of Dr. Kellman’s autistic patient’s have a wide variety of these symptoms, and all have malabsorption causing deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. There are problems with the amino acids’ balance and stores. It has been shown that a deficiency of vitamin A and E, the amino acid cysteine, the minerals zinc, iodine, iron, and selenium, and of the antioxidant glutathione (which requires cysteine), and an excess of copper will adversely slow the thyroid function. Excess copper slows the thyroid while zinc increases thyroid action; however, a copper deficiency will result in low plasma T3. Iron may be low because of blood loss in women and girls, insufficient intake, or deficiencies of minerals such as manganese, copper, or cobalt (vitamin B12), or B-vitamins, which are essential for iron utilization. Iron and copper work together to form hemoglobin and need to be balanced in a ratio of 5:1. Long-term supplementing with either alone can lead to a deficiency of the other. Iron, manganese, zinc, and chromium are often deficient. Take 30-50 mg of zinc to increase thyroid production. Use of liquid zinc will likely be more effectively assimilated requiring lesser amounts. If rapid heartbeat is felt at night or early morning, decrease the zinc and supplement copper and other minerals. It is known that a vitamin A deficiency (Garcin & Higueret, 1977; Morley et al., 1978; Higueret & Garcin, 1984) or a protein deficiency (see Brasel, 1980) induces adverse changes in thyroid status. Cobalt is necessary for production of thyroid hormone. Those with a slow thyroid have difficulty in converting beta-carotene to vitamin A, so supplement with a preformed vitamin A, such as from cod-liver oil.
Most people with thyroid disease find that they have to supplement calcium and magnesium. Supplementing these minerals in the correct ratio can make a huge improvement in the symptoms. However, supplementing them in the wrong ratio can make symptoms worse. To further complicate the situation, the correct ratio of Ca/Mg changes as you recover from thyroid disease. To balance calcium and magnesium, keep these points in mind: a normal person needs a cal/mag ratio of about 2:1. A hyperthyroid condition needs more magnesium, and a hypothyroid needs more calcium, but these ratios need to be adjusted as you approach normalcy.
An increased heart rate or an irregular heartbeat can be a sign of either too little calcium or too little magnesium; the key to knowing whether you need calcium or magnesium is the strength of the heartbeat, not the speed or the irregularity. It is magnesium and manganese that controls the fate of calcium and potassium in the cell. If magnesium is insufficient, excessive calcium will enter the cell causing spasms and cramps, and it will be deposited in the soft tissues (kidneys, arteries, joints, brain, etc.) leading to calcium and potassium loss in the urine. If the beat is too strong, take more magnesium, and if it’s too weak, increase the ratio of calcium to magnesium. It is interesting to note that a potassium deficiency and a vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) deficiency may have an effect on heart rate. A vitamin B5 deficiency has similar effects to a calcium deficiency, and a potassium deficiency can create an irregular heartbeat. Excess zinc can increase the heart rate at night or early morning. Excess copper (as in hypothyroidism) raises sodium and lowers potassium and manganese tissue levels. Excess copper, by displacing zinc and manganese, is often associated with pancreatic dysfunction. Both carnitine and taurine will conserve calcium, magnesium, and potassium, and may reduce heart arrhythmias and fatigue.
Sympathetic nerves release noradrenaline that increases heart rate, and the parasympathetic (vagus) nerve fibres release acetylcholine that slows the rate. Magnesium shuts off the SNS activity, while potassium enhances PSNS activity. Many studies show that magnesium suppresses the sympathetic function, while potassium stimulates parasympathetic activity. Achieving a balance in these minerals would achieve a balance in Autonomic Nervous System function.
A meat diet is loaded with minerals such as phosphorous and zinc, which tend to have the opposite effect. A high-meat diet stimulates the sympathetic system and tones down parasympathetic activity. Furthermore, such a diet is loaded with sulfates and phosphates that in the body are quickly converted into free acid that in turn stimulates the sympathetic nervous system while suppressing parasympathetic activity.
During hyperthyroidism, magnesium is low and calcium is high. This imbalance is the result of other mineral imbalances (copper, zinc, iron, manganese), but the effects on the heart rate are the direct effect of a Ca/Mg imbalance. This can be demonstrated by taking a magnesium supplement. This intake of more magnesium by one who is hyper will slow the heart rate temporarily. However, the body can’t maintain normal magnesium levels if copper is low. So, until copper is replenished, extra magnesium is needed to control the rapid heart rate (low copper tends to a hyperactive thyroid).
The key to understanding the effects of calcium and magnesium on the heart is this: calcium is needed for muscles to contract and magnesium is needed for muscles to relax, but depending on whether hyper or hypo, both have the same effect on heart rate. A weak heart beat (perhaps felt as a missed beat) means that calcium is deficient and the contraction phase is weak and short. This results in an increase in heart rate and also an irregular heartbeat because some contractions are missed entirely. Contrast this to a magnesium deficiency where the heart rate is increased and irregular because some of the relaxations are missed. It is the strength of the heartbeat, and not the speed and irregularity that is the key. Remember that balancing calcium and magnesium won’t correct thyroid problems. You’ll need to correct the other minerals like iodine, copper, zinc, iron, selenium, chromium, and manganese to achieve this. Calcium and magnesium get out of balance because of these other nutritional problems. However, getting your calcium/magnesium balance corrected is essential for normalizing heart rate, preventing dental decay and osteoporosis, and preventing muscle cramps (too little magnesium).
Zinc can have adverse health effects at a daily dosage as low as 50 mg per day. Studies on zinc supplementation show that this or higher levels can significantly lower High Density Lipoproteins (HDL), copper, and super oxide dismutase [SOD] levels in just 14 days resulting in lowered immune function. Calcium significantly inhibits the absorption of almost all other minerals and trace elements by a factor of up to 60-70%. So, you could buy a very good form of chelated zinc and the absorption will be very low because of the calcium filler. Ninety percent of these products contained a level of calcium between 600-1,000 mg that is not disclosed on the label of the bottle. Avoid all mineral tablets that show an excipient of di-calcium phosphate. Take all minerals other than a multivitamin/mineral on an empty stomach for best absorption and effectiveness, and take zinc and magnesium 30 minutes before bedtime, preferably with the EPO/CLO for maximum effectiveness (Wapnir et al. 1988, Lee and Wapnir 1993). If there is early morning waking (3-4 AM), add 400 mg calcium in the evening, but not at the same time as the zinc. In these studies, the addition of certain long-chain fatty acids in the diets reversed zinc malabsorption. Taking zinc will increase the metabolic rate, so if one is hyperthyroid, taking a large amount of zinc just before bed may cause a very restless night. Should this occur take zinc early in the day, and take copper at night.
Restoring zinc once it is depleted is not easy. This may give some insight into how to proceed. Whether it is derived from meat, fish, dairy products, cereals, breads, or vegetables, there is a consistent positive correlation between protein and the zinc content of foods (Held et al. 1988, Wapnir 1990). The ability of an organism to increase its zinc stores with adequate or enriched protein feedings is different if it has previously become zinc depleted. This relationship has been demonstrated in a study with zinc-deficient and zinc-sufficient rats fed varying amounts of protein. Tissue zinc concentration increased linearly with dietary protein in rats fed a zinc-deficient diet. In contrast, rats fed a zinc-sufficient diet accumulated zinc in their organs only as dietary protein increased logarithmically (Oberleas and Prasad 1969, Wapnir 1990). Get some protein into the kid!
Selenium is very important for normal thyroid function. It may become deficient if there are excessive amounts of toxic metals being ingested. The more mercury or other toxic metals ingested, the more selenium you’ll need. Two things tend to deplete selenium stores: increased fatty acid intake, especially; and mercury, cadmium, and arsenic that uses up selenium for detoxification. Studies show that a deficiency of selenium causes the body to increase the levels of free T3. This has been frequently confirmed in children with autism, and chelating when selenium is already low has driven T3 levels to excessive highs. Remember that arsenic also creates high T3 readings, undoubtedly due to it’s depletion of selenium. Adults take 200-600 mcg of selenium per day (Children can use 1/3 to 1/2 as much based on age). Always take selenium with vitamin E. Start by taking 100 mcg per day, and gradually increase the amount as seems right based on amount of mercury in the mouth. Don’t take over 600 mcg. Some may be so deficient in minerals that they are close to becoming hyperthyroid. If experiencing nighttime rapid heart beat, then you are close to becoming hyperthyroid and should supplement minerals, especially copper. Acta Societatis Medicorum Upsaliensis Vol 72, 1-2, 1967 reports a relationship between pyridoxine (B6) and the thyroid gland. Individual’s who are suffering from a condition of hyperthyroidism appear to need more vitamin B6 than normal people. The result is that there is a derangement in the way the body uses B6 when the thyroid gland is disordered.
Opioids have been shown to decrease hepatic glutathione. Low levels of glutathione have been demonstrated in autism. Low Glutathione can diminish conversion to T3. Dermorphin and other opioid-like peptides inhibit TSH output tending to hypothyroidism, and change other hormonal output affecting in particular the functional activity of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical. This creates chemical imbalances resulting in neurotransmitting problems.
Pancreatic function was significantly reduced in patients with hypothyroidism compared with healthy subjects. Treatment with thyroxine (T4) restored the pancreatic function to normal. It was concluded that the thyroid gland plays an essential role in maintaining the functional integrity of the exocrine pancreas in humans (Gullo et al., 1991). One test of those with autoimmune thyroiditis found twenty-two patients (55%) had positive antigliadin antibodies. Polyglandular Endocrine Syndrome was diagnosed in most of these patients. A study of those with celiac disease found autoimmune thyroiditis in 90 of 343 (26.2%). Hypothyroidism was observed in 28 (8.1%) and hyperthyroidism was diagnosed in four. An abnormal echographic pattern was seen in 37 patients with CD (16.8%). These figures surely indicate that any patient with thyroid problems should be checked for celiac disease and vice versa.
The hypothyroid problem is relatively easy to treat once the doctor is convinced it is malfunctioning, and the results are dramatic; nevertheless, use of thyroid replacement drugs deplete thyroid and tissue iodine levels! Eventually, the initial improvements disappear! You must supplement iodine! Additionally, Sjoberg and others studied monoamine precursors, neurotransmitters, and their metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from nine newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients. Before treatment, the serum TSH correlated positively with the CSF concentrations of tyrosine and phenylalanine. During treatment, the levels of the precursors tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine decreased significantly, as was also the case with dopamine and the noradrenaline metabolite hydroxy 3 methoxyphenylglycol (HMPG), but not with serotonin, noradrenaline, and the serotonin metabolite 5 hydroxyindoleacetic acid, nor the dopamine metabolites, homovanilic acid and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid. Furthermore, the authors have found an indication that L-thyroxine treatment affects the CSF levels of the precursors as well as dopamine and HMPG, supporting the notion that there is an interaction between thyroid function and CSF disposition of monoamine compounds. (Sjoberg et al, 1998)
Hypothyroidism can be quite effectively regulated, however, by supplying the necessary nutrients, the amino acid tyrosine, zinc, and desiccated thyroid concentrate, all available at your health food store. For adults, I recommend Dr. Jonathan Wright’s Thyroplex for Men (Women) that supplies 1/4 grain of the actual thyroid glandular containing all the thyroid functioning hormones: T4, T3, T2, T1, and calcitonin (a hormone that regulates calcium balance), along with other nutrients to nourish the rest of the endocrine network. Order from Life Enhancement Products, www.life-enhancement.com, 1-800-543-3873. Dr. David Williams recommends Thytrophin™ from Standard Process Products, along with their liquid iodine supplement Iosol™. Lugol’s solution (Iodoral™ tablets) would be just as good and more readily available on the Net.
A function of iodine is to calm the body and relieve nervous tension. When nervous tension runs high, there is irritability and difficulty in sleeping well at night, and the body is continually on a combat basis, organized for fight and flight. All these points stress a body’s need for iodine to lessen nervous tension, relax the body, and enable it to organize for peace and quiet by the building and storing of body reserves against time of need. I have learned through Vermont folk medicine that it is possible to repeatedly change an irritable, impatient, and restless child under ten years of age into a calm, patient individual within two hours’ time by giving one drop of Lugol’s solution of iodine by mouth in a vegetable or fruit juice or in a glass of water made acid in reaction by adding a teaspoonful of apple cider vinegar.
If you are taking thyroid medications, they may not work well at all when you are deficient in iodine, but when you begin giving the above support, you must work with your doctor to reduce or discontinue the medications or you could become hyperthyroid. Should your doctor determine hypothyroidism, he will typically prescribe Synthroid™, a synthetic hormone that supplies only T4. Prescribing thyroid T4 to hypothyroids increases susceptibility to breast cancer. JAMA 1976; 238:1124, induces osteoporosis, suppresses the pituitary, and may shrink your thyroid gland. Insist upon a Natural Hormone from Armour’s or other natural source. For those chemically sensitive or with Grave’s and Hashimoto’s, or with corn sensitivity, do not use Armour’s as it contains cornstarch. Bio-Thyroid has no fillers. Naturethyroid is free of cornstarch. Incidentally, iodine supplementation can cause extremely bad breath and gastritis due to the breakdown and release of bromine from bread. This can cause reflux also, but chlorophyll capsules relieve these symptoms, including the bad breath. Lack of iodine causes achlorhydria (lack of stomach acid) that results in a host of digestive problems and eventual protein deficiency.
Iodine therapy continues to be highly beneficial to iodine deficient people (most everybody but native Japanese). It is proven that daily supplement of 50 mg of iodine detoxifies the body of toxic halide compounds, such as bromine (from baked grains) and fluoride, as well as the heavy metals, lead and mercury.
It is also proven that there is a built-in safety mechanism for iodine overload. When deficient, the amount of iodine retained is relative to the deficiency. At full body sufficiency, the excess iodine is excreted in the urine as Iodide. An overload will create a case of prolonged sneezing!
It is now proven that the amount of iodine needed and retained for total iodine sufficiency is 1,500 mg, 50 times higher than reported in medical textbooks. Our environment and diet are now loaded with toxic halides. Until now, there was no known way to detoxify these toxins that accumulate in the body (only about half of the fluoride is normally excreted). Iodine therapy now provides a protocol to remove these toxins that severely depress the thyroid. Mercury and lead are also removed! Viruses are killed. A bonus is to eliminate heart arrhythmias that balancing electrolytes does not clear.
Iodine is needed for a smooth heartbeat, and the medics, as usual, depend on a toxic drug form, Amiodarone. This form of iodine is toxic to the thyroid and can induce severe thyroid abnormalities. One may use Lugol’s solution, or Iodoral (Lugol’s in a tablet at 12.5 mg each), or Prolamine Iodine (from Standard Process). Do not combine Amiodarone with these iodine supplements.
Most, who are deficient in iodine, reach iodine
sufficiency on a serving of between 37 and 50 mgs daily for 3 to 6 months.
Iodine intake should be increased slowly, and after 3-to-6 months, the
amount should be tapered down to 12.5 mg day. It is suggested that you
request a free flyer of Dr. Bruce West’s protocol from Health Alert,
The amino acid tyrosine and the mineral iodine are necessary to form thyroid hormone. Lithium (5-20 mg per day) and iodine supplements tend to normalize thyroid function, particularly in Grave’s Disease. The liver requires zinc, selenium, vitamins A and B6, and glutathione (GSH) in adequate amounts to convert the hormone T4 to T3. Glutathione also enables the cell to take up T3. GSH is essential to the immune system, to antioxidation processes throughout the body, to detoxification of mercury and other heavy metals and toxins and their excretion via Phase II liver paths, and for mitochondrial energy production. Typical blood panel tests for glutathione are inadequate for the liver and/or tissue levels can be very low, but the blood may still be normal. This powerful antioxidant is required throughout the body; so, ensure adequate substrates of the amino acids. A pure amino acid supplement of glycine, cysteine, and glutamine would be most helpful. Amino acids are acidic, and in excess will cause a decrease in the alkaline reserve of the body. Too much protein in the diet upsets the acid–base balance of the body. One should check the pH of the urine and saliva, periodically, to ensure this does not occur without corrective action.
Because the vulnerability of the adult rat cerebellum to the effects of thyroidectomy is commensurate with the known clinical signs of cerebellar dysfunction in adult hypothyroid man, a study investigated the influence of hypothyroidism in the adult rat on brain biochemistry (Ahmed et al., 1993). Hypothyroidism resulted in brain region-specific changes in certain catabolic enzyme activities. Acid phosphatase activity was reduced in the cerebellum (by 34%) and the medulla (by 38%), whereas alkaline phosphatase activity was decreased in the midbrain (by 37%) and the subcortex (by 49%). A differential response was also observed in the case of aryl sulfatase activity: aryl sulfatase A (myelin-degradative activity) was diminished in the cerebellum (by 56%), whereas aryl sulfatase B remained unchanged in all regions. Acetylcholinesterase activity was reduced in the cerebellum (by 45%) possibly allowing an excess of acetylcholine neurotransmitter activity, the medulla (by 34%) and the subcortex (by 45%), whereas monoamine oxidase activity was affected in only one region, the cerebellum, where it was increased by (61%) leading to a waste of neurotransmitters in that area. The compromise of myelin and neurotransmitter degradative enzyme activities may place severe restrictions on normal brain function (Ahmed et al., 1993).
Recently, a study was conducted in France aimed at investigating the repercussions of deficiency in thyroid function, with and without thyroid hormone (TH) replacement, on the neurochemical entities which underlie serotonin (5-HT) neurotransmission, namely 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A receptors, 5-HT transporter, and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) in the mature brain. The study reports that the decrease in cortical (cerebral cortex) 5-HT2A receptors is the main neurochemical event underlying the impairing effect of hypothyroidism on 5-HT neurotransmission (Kulikov et al, 1999). Another three-part study explored the basis for an interaction between changes in thyroid status and bulbospinal serotonin (5HT) metabolism, concluding that the interaction between thyroid hormones and 5HT is both more subtle and more complex than previously thought (Hanley et al, 1998).
Diminished acetylcholinesterase activity (inhibition) results in increased acetylcholine in the synapse. For some this may be good, for others it can be the cause of overactivity of thousands of processes, and rigidity of muscles unless balanced by dopamine. MSM is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor; so, it can increase acetylcholine. It does this by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. MSM also protects the body from acetylcholinesterase inhibitors like organophosphate pesticides. In presence of pesticides poisoning, it is hard to tell what will happen to acetylcholine levels when you use MSM. Other prevalent acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are: Mercury, Sage, Huperzine A, Fluorides, Aluminum, the herb, Galantamine, Zinc deficiency, and the drugs Meshinon™ and Aricept™. Low Acetylcholinesterase levels induce a vitamin B1 deficiency.
Failure to have adequate iodine (a common occurrence) leads to insufficient production of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism), which affects many different parts of the body, particularly muscle, heart, liver, kidney, breasts, and the brain. Chlorine, fluoride, and iodine are chemically related. Chlorine and fluoride not only block iodine receptors in the thyroid gland, resulting in reduced iodine-containing hormone production, but replace the iodine molecule in T4 hormone giving a false TSH/T4 reading. The result is hidden hypothyroidism. Dental fluorosis is now seen to be a direct result of fluoride-induced iodine deficiency during the time of enamel formation. The most devastating of these consequences are on the developing human brain (Venkatesh-Mannar & Dunn, 1995). Iodine deficiency has been called the world’s major cause of preventable mental retardation. The damage to the developing brain results in individuals poorly equipped to fight disease, learn, work effectively, or reproduce satisfactorily. Iodine deficiency causes brain disorders, cretinism, miscarriages, winter depression (SAD), Cerebral Palsy, goiter, and many other diseases. A lack of iodine will also allow radioactive iodine into the thyroid destroying it. This can be prevented when taking radiation, or doing radioactive iodine treatment, or when downwind from a terrorist attack with nuclear weapons by immediately taking at least 10 drops of Potassium Iodide (KI) or Lugol’s Solution in water. This also protects against bacterial/viral infection when on a plane. KI is also available in tablets. Keep a bottle (Iodoral) in the first-aid cabinet.
As suggested, most thyroidologists are quick to use radioactive isotopes to scan the thyroid. Why don’t they use safer fluorescent scanning of the thyroid instead of isotope scanning? One possible reason is the fact that this procedure exposes the harmful effect of thyroid hormone therapy and radioiodide usage in depleting the thyroid gland of iodine (it measures the amount of iodine in the gland as well as its size). Low thyroid iodine is associated with thyroid hyperplasia and cancer. Could thyroid hormones cause the same iodine depletion in breast tissue? The prevalence of breast cancer is higher in women on thyroid hormones. Thyroidologists use thyroid hormones extensively in their practice without supplementing their patients with iodine. Fluorescence scanning of the thyroid gland should be implemented. Thyroidologists would than have to face the damages they are causing to the thyroid gland and consequently to their patient.
A simple test to determine if adequate iodine is available for proper thyroid function, and to improve stores if needed is this: obtain a bottle of standard Tincture of Iodine (sodium iodide, 2.4%) from the drug store. Paint a 3-cm–sized spot (1.25 inches; twice that on adults) on the tender skin of the belly or thigh where clothes will not rub heavily. Watch that stain for 24-hours. If it disappears in less than 24-hours, there is a need of iodine, and the thyroid is likely sluggish. If the stain disappears in less than 24-hours, paint more iodine on a different spot, and continue to paint a new spot until one remains visible for 24 hours. This will help restore normal thyroid function but is not adequate to restore full body iodine levels. Interpretation of the 24-hour stain: Color almost as strong as when it was applied (minimally adequate iodine); Color turns red (this usually indicates chemical sensitivities that are normally helped by selenium supplementation); Color turns black (usually associated with food sensitivities); Color stays several days (usually indicates an iodine excess). If the nose becomes more than normally moist, discontinue painting iodine as you have adequate stores. One should supplement selenium, and kelp (unless there is excess iodine), but do not use the drugstore Tincture of Iodine internally. Use Lugol’s Solution, Iodoral, or KI for internal purposes. For the autistic, a supplement of tyrosine would likely be necessary for T4 is a tyrosine/iodine substance. Tyrosine will improve dopamine levels that are often low in the autistic. As stated, iodine and selenium are very essential to proper thyroid function, but supplementing iodine in the absence of adequate selenium may do more harm than good! You must supplement at least 200 mcg of selenium when doing this iodine replenishment.
To determine if there is still a problem, perhaps as an aid to persuading the doctor to give the only effective, medical, thyroid test, the TRH test, do this: For five days, on awakening, without moving around except to reach the thermometer prepared the night before (shake down below 96.00 F), measure the underarm temperature for ten minutes. Average the results for the five days. If that average reading is below 97.60 F (normal underarm temperature), you likely have a problem. Below 97.20 F, you definitely have a problem. Remember, if you take the temperature orally, normal is 98.60 F, and rectally it is 99.60 F. Women still menstruating get the best readings on the second and third day after menstrual flow starts. Supplement kelp and the thyroid glandulars recommended above, and supply a wide range, multivitamin/mineral formula. Other supplements recommended in this article would be appropriate, especially the selenium, zinc, and glyconutrients. If that doesn’t correct the body temperature reading in reasonable time, demand the TRH test.
Fluoride, taken in from water, toothpaste, mouthwash, soft drinks, fruit juices made from concerntrate, prepared breakfast cereals, and coating of the teeth, is a major cause of hypothyroidism, especially in autistic who cannot break down such chemicals easily. Sluggish liver enzymes, common to autism, can cause accumulation of this deadly poison, and produce many symptoms. Fluoride interferes with metabolism of calcium and phosphorus and with the function of the parathyroids that control the utilization of calcium. Additionally, in 1948, Dr. Benjamin P. Sandler revealed that soda pop contains phosphoric acid that absorbs phosphorus and sulfates in food before natural metabolism can get it to the nervous system causing the nerve trunks to fail to function properly. Sandler said that dairy products and sugared, soft drinks that produced hypoglycemia were aggravating the incidence of polio.
Although Moolenburgh expected to find an allergic basis for the adverse effects associated with fluoride, he considered that the symptoms represented poisoning with inhibition of the immune system by a toxic substance in sensitive persons. Where an exacerbation of illnesses with an allergic component such as eczema and asthma occurred, his view was that immune system inhibition by fluoride had resulted in a loss of the ability to cope with the allergy. Double blind testing with 60 patients showed that certain individuals were intolerant to fluoride and that exposure to this could reproduce gastrointestinal symptoms, stomatitis, joint pains, excessive thirst, extreme chronic fatigue, and general hives. This study further indicated a potential for motor dysfunction, IQ deficits, and learning disabilities in humans. Neurological problems like headache, vertigo, spasticity in extremities, visual disturbances, and impaired mental acuity can result. It displaces iodine in the thyroid, inducing hypothyroidism, a condition largely responsible for many problems outlined above. Muscles and elements of connective tissue, particularly collagen fiber and bone tissue, undergo degenerative changes. It diminishes the immune function significantly. One child’s chronic diarrhea cleared straightaway he ceased drinking fluoridated water, and most “autistic” symptoms were diminished or disappeared. Fatty acids were brought into better balance, resulting in better hair, nail, and skin condition. Stop using fluoridated water for drinking, cooking, and bathing (it is absorbed through the skin), and stop using fluoridated dental products. Check to see if fluoride appears naturally in your water. If so, drink filtered water.
We usually think of fluorosis as a permanent damage to bones or teeth. Fluoride can also damage the liver, kidneys, and reproductive organs. However, the effects are reversible with vitamins. Fluoride accumulates in ovaries. In laboratory experiments with mice, fluoride damaged the tissues and cellular structures of ovaries and uterus. Scientists showed photographs of the tissues they studied. The sequence of photographs showed the tissues being progressively damaged as the mice became intoxicated with fluoride. When the mice were given vitamin C and calcium supplements and fluoride was not put in their water anymore, the tissues almost returned to the original state of good health.
Fluoride interferes with male fertility as well. In an experiment with male mice, a larger proportion of the sperm became abnormal when they ingested fluoride. The sperm lost their motility or died. When the same mice were given vitamin C and calcium and no fluoride, their sperm significantly recovered. Fluoride impairs the production of free radical scavengers such as glutathione and melatonin. Fluoride impairs the function of enzymes that prevent lipid peroxidation. These enzymes include glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase. This suppression of Glutathione and Glutathione peroxidase by fluoride and mercury diminishes the immune function significantly by diminishing Th1 activity by Killer Cells. A lack of killer cell numbers or activity will permit normally harmless viruses to mutate and possibly cause serious sickness and even death! It is vital that all suggestions herein be utilized to build the Th1 function and balance Th1/Th2 functions.
In another experiment with mice, Vitamins E and D repaired the damage that fluoride did to liver and kidneys. Fluoride caused the glomeruli, those tiny blood vessels in the kidneys for removing waste, to atrophy. In the liver, fluoride caused fatty deposition and the death of cells. Vitamin E was beneficial because it is an antioxidant. Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus so that their optimal concentrations will be maintained in the blood. This optimal concentration supports the metabolic activity of various tissues. Vitamins E and D were effective after fluoride was removed from their diet.
In an experiment with rats, fluoride impaired the growth rate, but the rats that were given beta-carotene and superoxide dismutase supplements had a faster growth rate. Fluoride causes damage to the fat in your body (lipid peroxidation), which is counteracted by the antioxidants beta-carotene and superoxide dismutase. Avoid fluoride like the plague, but if unable to do so completely (it’s in all prepared foods and drinks), then supplement vitamins and minerals to offset as much damage as possible.
Loss of appetite or picky eating is a common occurrence with “our” kids. Studies have shown that food consumption of zinc-deprived rats decreased 30% compared to controls, and that force-feeding of these zinc-deprived animals rapidly induced signs of ill health. Some of the things to consider are: medications (for colds, heart disease, asthma, tumors, epilepsy), vitamin deficiencies of B1 (Beri Beri), niacin (Pellagra), B12 (Pernicious Anemia), zinc deficiency, lead poisoning, copper toxicity, constipation, ammonia buildup from inadequate digestion of protein, vaccine reactions or chronic infections therefrom, and diseases like hypothyroidism, Addison’s (a deficiency of adrenal cortical hormone), hepatitis, celiac, acute nephritis, kidney failure, heart disease, and cancer. It is reported that too much vitamin A and D can cause loss of appetite. Animals responded to zinc supplementation within 1-2 hours with increased food intake. Also, it has been known that zinc deficiency in humans lead to mental depression, neurosis, sleep disturbances as well as to a reduction in appetite. Some things to improve appetite: supplement the above nutrients and improve levels of acetylcholine with nutrients such as lecithin, CDP choline, phosphatidylcholine, or the drug, Bethanechol. See a list elsewhere in this paper. Additionally, relieve constipation, address a thyroid deficiency, remove the toxic elements, and supplement alpha-ketoglutarate to remove excess ammonia. Some tonics available at the health food store are effective in improving appetite.