One common way Hypothyroidism can occur is when we've been stressed to the point where our adrenals and liver may be overloaded. It could also mean a lack of iodine. Iodine primarily works in the thyroid gland to produce a hormone called thyroxin which helps regulate growth, metabolism and energy. Foods grown in demineralized soils can create iodine deficiencies. Some other possible symptoms of iodine deficiency are:
• excess belly fat (jelly belly, not a hard belly)
• chronic sinus problems
• poor reading comprehension
• nervous tension
• overweight for no apparent reason
• lack of endurance
• cold hands and feet
• low body temperature
• unhealthy hair, nails, teeth, skin
• depression
• suicidal tendencies
• periodic hair loss (particularly after childbirth)
• constipation

It is suggested we avoid refined salt products (table salt), which are not a good source of iodine and can make us store fluid and may cause symptoms. Sea salt is better, as long as it's not bleached, bromated or iodized. Celtic, Himalayan and Red Salts are good choices for salt food additives. But the best sources of iodine are in Kelp (think the green roll part of a sushi roll), Dulse, Irish Moss and Black Walnut. I use Kelp tincture as an herbal supplement in my practice because it's efficacious, easy to use and affordable.

• Good nutritional choices for iodine are seeds, pineapple, onion, seafood, radishes and cabbage.
• Fluoride inhibits iodine, so be aware of your use of dental products and quality of tap water (you may want to invest in faucet filters or a home water filtration system).

Self-Tests for iodine deficiency:
• You can check yourself for tenderness at the test point on the center of the neck at the soft notch between the collar bones above the breastbone.
• There may also be two lines across the neck, and the neck may be a little puffy.
• Another test is to stand in front of a mirror with your hands at your sides; there could be an iodine deficiency if the backs of the hands have a tendency to roll forward or the elbows have a tendency to point outward.

I mentioned the liver earlier. The liver is incredibly self-generating, and there are tinctures and compounds to help tonify (milk thistle, etc.). As for any stress, it's good to journal your day---time, activities, food consumption, exercise, emotions, etc. Document what's really going on in your life. We think we know, but life takes on a whole other reality when we see it in print---especially a few days later! My clients groan when I first ask them to do this, but then they love doing it and have had amazing results because we can track the details of their daily lifestyle habits and together we can make adjustments to their personal Health Blueprint.

Address those things that are stressful in your life by sharing responsibilities for chores (women tend to 'do it all'---don't!), using EFA's (essential fatty acids), doing FSA's (fun, sweaty activities), laugh, tap into your spiritual side (meditate/pray)...really take a look at what's happening in all aspects of your life. Create balance. Thyroid issues can be a combination of things, so it's best to look at the complete picture of how you're living to address the concern mind, body and spirit.
Best to you,
Kristin Mills, CNHP
Traditional Naturopath