Save My Thyroid: Healing Tips for Hyperthyroidism and Hashimoto's

“Most metabolic conditions are centered on hypothalamic dysfunction.” - Deborah MaragopoulosThe hypothalamus is an important organ, but it’s difficult to understand. It acts as the central controller that’s often at the root of hormone, neurological, or immune issues, but practitioners often pay little attention to it since there’s no way to measure the hormones it produces. Fortunately, in recent years, research into the hypothalamus has increased and uncovered insights into the deep relationship between hypothalamic function and our overall health.Today, I’m excited to be joined by Deborah Maragopoulos to do a deep dive into the hypothalamus for the first time on the podcast. Deborah is an intuitive integrative family nurse practitioner who has spent over thirty years blending the Science of Medicine with the Art of Healing to help thousands of people heal from various symptoms and thrive by treating their hypothalamus.In this conversation, Deborah and I discuss the critical role the hypothalamus plays in regulating hormones, its impact on thyroid health, fertility, and autoimmunity, Deborah’s approach to treating hypothalamic dysfunction, the challenges of diagnosing hypothalamic issues, and more. Enjoy the episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/how-optimizing-your-hypothalamus-can-improve-thyroid-health-with-deborah-maragopoulos-144/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

While many people with hyperthyroidism take antithyroid medication, others prefer to use natural options for symptom management since the risk of side effects is much lower. When I dealt with Graves’ disease in 2008, I was one of those who chose to take a natural route, and bugleweed was one of the herbs that helped me significantly.Despite the lower risk, some people may still have an adverse reaction to natural supplements and herbs, like a recent patient of mine who had a negative reaction to bugleweed. Even though it’s rare, I wanted to bring this topic to the podcast for anyone else with a similar experience. In this episode, you’ll learn about:- Reasons you may have an adverse reaction to a supplement- Taking liquid herbs with ethanol versus glycerin- The difference between an allergic reaction and a sensitivity- The likelihood of negative reactions to bugleweed versus antithyroid medicationAs always, I hope you find this episode valuable, and I look forward to catching you in the next episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/can-you-have-a-negative-reaction-to-bugleweed/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

“If you know your genetics, you know your ideal.” - Dr. Sam ShayMethylation is an extremely important biochemical process essential for numerous bodily functions. The MTHFR gene was one of the first genes identified and available for testing to the public, so many practitioners and patients have become hyper-focused on methylation when it comes to genetic testing.The truth is, while methylation is crucial, there are other processes that the body will prioritize over it. Rather than looking at it as the most crucial pathway, we need to explore other genes that control disease drivers, have significant variation in the general population, and are supported by scientific research for lifestyle and nutrition interventions. Understanding this broader picture allows us to take a more holistic approach to optimizing health.Today, I’m excited to chat with Dr. Sam Shay, DC, IFMCP, a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner who focuses on genetics and methylation. Dr. Sam solves health puzzles for busy, health-conscious moms, mom-preneurs, and adults with Aspergers so that they can exit survival mode and re-enter the community. Known as the friendly "lab nerd," Dr. Sam specializes in functional lab and genetics analysis for data-driven results. Dr. Sam is also a Stand-Up Comic, using clean, observational comedy to educate and entertain.In this conversation, Dr. Sam and I discuss the role of genetics and methylation in health and thyroid conditions specifically. We talk about why Dr. Sam recommends comprehensive genetic testing for most of his clients, the need for personalized health strategies based on individual genetic profiles, how we can integrate genetic and functional medicine testing, the long-term benefits of genetic testing, and more. Enjoy the episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/genetics-and-beyond-methylation-with-dr-sam-shay-143/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

What can you do about hyperthyroidism-induced hair loss? Are skin issues common with Hashimoto’s? Does Graves’ disease affect your teeth?Today, I’m back with another Q&A episode, answering multiple questions submitted by the Save My Thyroid community. While I can’t get to everyone’s questions every time, I love creating these for you, and I’ll do similar episodes every couple of months. Please share your questions with me by emailing info@naturalendocrinesolutions.com, and I'll include the most relevant ones in upcoming episodes.In this episode, you’ll learn:Q1: What can be used to reduce goiter in hyperthyroidism?Q2: I have been on thyroid medication for 20-plus years, and I've been I've never been told I had Hashimoto's. I have hypothyroidism unspecified. Does hypothyroidism ever not require lifelong medication?Q3: Do people with Graves’ disease suffer total hair loss or is it super common? Is there a way to avoid it or fix it?Q4: Why does hypothyroidism cause hair thinning or hair loss? What could be done to help besides taking thyroid meds?Q5: Why does my hair grow so much slower after a single bout of hyperthyroidism?Q6: I have two small nodules on one side of my thyroid. Can nodules grow even with proper diet?Q7: I have had Graves’ disease for about 13 years.  Is it possible to shrink nodules and a goiter?Q8: Can cold thyroid nodules be treated without an operation?Q9: My hands itch and scratching them create sores. My back gets rashes and itches and my arms and knees as well. The endocrinologist says I have Hashimoto's for about 30 years.  I'm just not sure about the skin issues; is that actually Hashimoto's?Q10: What can I do to stop the sweating? I have a challenge here in Africa. It's always very hot. If I'm exposed to a bit of heat I sweat a lot and sometimes I have problems breathing properly.Q11: What can you do to get rid of the dry skin that comes with Graves’ disease?Q12: I still keep needing to up my thyroid medication. I don't seem to stabilize and I don't know why. Why is it not working even though I follow the advice and wait, taking it on an empty stomach?Q13: Does Graves’ disease affect your teeth?Q14: How can a person test positive for Graves’ and Hashimoto's at the same time? Apparently that is me, and I'm trying to use natural remedies but I don't know which direction to go.Q15: How do you know if your thyroid is operating in a good range? How important are serum values versus symptoms? And if symptoms how do you assess them?Q16: What do you see as the most consistent issue that is at the root cause for Hashimoto's and low thyroid with low T3 and T4?Q17: Can taking iodine long term help to regulate the thyroid?Q18: How is hypothyroidism related to osteoporosis, scoliosis, GERD, food intolerances, Barrett's esophagus, chronic kidney disease, and the aging process all of which happened to me Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

Dr. Eric Balcavage discusses the vital connection between bile metabolism and thyroid health, emphasizing the roles of bile in digestion, detoxification, and thyroid hormone regulation. Topics include risks of excessive bile acid supplementation, factors affecting T3 levels, significance of bilirubin levels, and personalized treatment approaches. The discussion delves into the impact of estrogen on bile flow, gallbladder health, and digestion, highlighting the importance of monitoring bilirubin levels and seeking professional guidance for individualized care.

Many people with hyperthyroidism experience a decrease in muscle mass, primarily as a result of elevated thyroid hormone levels. At the same time, many people with Hashimoto’s can also benefit from increasing muscle mass.Whatever the underlying issue, a combined approach that includes nutrition and lifestyle factors is essential when it comes to building muscle.Today, I’m sharing three specific ways to increase muscle mass if you have a hyperthyroid condition (two of these methods also apply to Hashimoto’s).In this episode, you’ll learn about:- How elevated thyroid hormone impacts muscle mass- Different approaches to balancing thyroid hormones- Why it’s crucial to eat sufficient protein- Incorporating weight-bearing exercises into your movement routinesAs always, I hope you find this episode valuable, and I look forward to catching you in the next episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/3-ways-those-with-hyperthyroidism-can-increase-muscle-mass/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

“If you have any thyroid issues, it’s always a good idea to take a look at your liver and gallbladder health.” - Divya GuptaThe gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ that sits right below your liver, where bile is stored after being produced by the liver. That bile plays a huge role in breaking down fats, aiding the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and even detoxification.The thyroid, liver, and gallbladder have a synergistic connection, and issues in any one of these organs can often cause knock-on effects in the others. For example, low thyroid hormone levels can impact cholesterol production, a raw material for bile. Today, I’m excited to chat about this connection with Divya Gupta, a board-certified nutritionist and Restorative Wellness Practitioner specializing in gut health. Faced with personal health challenges such as gallbladder removal and a Hashimoto's diagnosis, Divya departed from her 15 years in corporate America to establish Divyaa Nutrition + Wellness. She became a wellness advocate, guiding ambitious professionals on a personalized journey to reclaim their health and live life on their terms. Her expertise reflects a departure from conventional approaches, emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being.In this conversation, Divya and I discuss her health struggles, why we need a holistic approach to health, symptoms of gallbladder problems, the impact of bile metabolism on thyroid function, the connection between the thyroid and the gallbladder, what you need to know about testing, how you can support liver function and bile metabolism, and more. Enjoy the episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/the-gallbladder-thyroid-relationship-with-divya-gupta-141/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication that was first approved to help heroin and opium addicts by blocking opioid receptors.Later, researchers found that lower doses of naltrexone could modulate the immune system and benefit many people with different types of autoimmune and other chronic conditions.With its immune system modulation properties, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) has the potential to benefit those with Graves’ disease and Hashimoto's; however, it doesn’t come without risks.Today, I’m sharing the key considerations you need to take into account when considering whether LDN might be right for you.In this episode, you’ll learn about:- Benefits of LDN, especially in comparison to other medications- Specific aspects of LDN to be aware of if you have Graves' disease or Hashimoto's- Risks associated with LDN- Recognizing the need to address the underlying causes of your condition- My perspective on whether people with Graves' disease or Hashimoto's should consider taking LDN- The importance of making an informed decision about taking LDNAs always, I hope you find this episode valuable, and I look forward to catching you in the next episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/should-everyone-with-graves-disease-and-hashimotos-take-ldn/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

“Nutrition and health in general are only successful when they’re sustainable.” - Megan LyonsWhen it comes to nutrition and thyroid health, it’s essential to build a strong foundation that nourishes the body. That means including the various antioxidants, polyphenols, and other good chemicals from plants alongside high-quality, healthy fats essential for hormone production.Beyond the basics, your mindset is a powerful factor in nutrition and healing. Rather than thinking about your diet as something restrictive or that your body is working against you, try to reframe it as being empowered with the knowledge that helps you feel your best. Listen to how you speak to yourself and try to be kind to your body.Today, I’m joined by Megan Lyons, a sought-after health & wellness expert who is deeply passionate about inspiring others to feel their healthiest and happiest. Megan is a Harvard graduate, MBA, and former management consultant who left the business world to follow her passion for wellness by opening The Lyons' Share Wellness in 2014.In this conversation, Megan and I discuss the relationship between nutrition and thyroid health, the benefits of antioxidants, healthy fats, and proteins, concerns about goitrogens in cruciferous vegetables, phytoestrogens in soy, whether a gluten-free diet is necessary for thyroid patients, the impact of oxalates, Megan’s perspective on natural sweeteners, and more. Enjoy the episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/deep-dive-into-nutrition-and-thyroid-health-with-megan-lyons-140/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric

Many people are familiar with the benefits of melatonin when it comes to sleep. However, research shows that the hormone may have much more to offer.While its primary function is to help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, research has shown other benefits, such as strengthening the immune system, improving bone density, potentially helping to prevent the development of certain types of cancers, and benefiting those with autoimmune conditions.Today, I’m sharing the critical insights anyone with Graves' disease or Hashimoto's needs to know about melatonin, including how it impacts thyroid health and what recent research says, particularly about those with autoimmune thyroid conditions.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Melatonin’s role in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm- How melatonin impacts multiple aspects of your overall health- Potential causes of low melatonin levels- Precursors of melatonin- Testing for melatonin deficiency- The connection between melatonin and thyroid hormone production- Potential benefits of melatonin for people with autoimmune conditions- What recent journal articles show about the effects of melatonin on immune function- My recommendations for melatonin for those with thyroid conditionsAs always, I hope you find this episode valuable, and I look forward to catching you in the next episode!To learn more, visit the show notes at https://savemythyroid.com/podcast/is-melatonin-harmful-in-those-with-graves-disease-and-hashimotos/. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid? Click Here to access hundreds of free articles and blog posts. Click Here for Dr. Eric’s YouTube channel Click Here to join Dr. Eric’s Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s group Click Here to take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz Click Here to get all of Dr. Eric’s published booksClick Here to work with Dr. Eric