| Before you consider
purchasing a particular thyroid supplement, it makes sense to
learn a little about the thyroid and hypothyroidism. So we'll go over
hypothyroidism, why it leads to weight gain,
and how supplements may help with the problem.
What exactly is
hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a
condition whereby the thyroid gland doesn't produce
enough hormones.
This can lead to a number of health problems including
unexplained weight gain, depression, and poor skin
appearance.
It is estimated that over 20 million Americans
have an under active thyroid, making it a very common problem. Although there
is no cure for hypothyroidism, there are things that can be done to help
minimize its effects.
Risk factors for thyroid problems
No one is exactly sure what causes
hypothyroidism. But, several factors have been
identified that put people at risk. Some of these
factors include:
 | Medication Use (especially lithium) |
 | Thyroid Surgery |
 | Radiation Therapy |
 | Radioactive Iodine Treatment |
 | Congenital Disease |
 | Iodine Deficiency
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How the thyroid may be responsible for weight
gain
The thyroid is a small (weighing less than one
ounce), butterfly-shaped gland that is responsible for regulating
virtually all aspects of your metabolism. Now, the thyroid
accomplishes this by producing hormones such as thyroxine (T-4),
triiodothyronine. These hormones have a direct effect on how
quickly your body burns calories and how your body uses fats and
carbohydrates.
With an under active thyroid, these hormones are
not produced in sufficient quantities. Thus, the body
generally will burn calories slower and not properly utilize fats
and carbohydrates. It is in this way that an under active
thyroid can lead to seemingly unexplained weight gain.
What thyroid supplements attempt to do
In addition to lifestyle changes and doctor
prescribed treatment options, a growing number of people with an
under active thyroid are
turning to natural products to help regulate and normalize their
thyroid.
Most herbal thyroid products contain ingredients
that may help increase the function of the thyroid. They may also
contain ingredients that are believed to provide the thyroid with
much needed Iodine as well as other important nutrients. The whole idea behind these types of supplements is to
balance and stimulate the thyroid without creating any side effects.
To see which thyroid supplements came out on top
in our research, be sure to check out our
review page.
Thyromine.com -
Thyroid Support Formula
Offers the highly rated
Thyromine thyroid support formula. Now offering a buy
four get two free discount.
ProgressiveHealth.com - Thyroid
Supplement
Offers the very popular Thyax thyroid support supplement.
Quantity discounts now available.
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