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The Book				Thyroid Hypofunction & Menopause By Joseph Collins, RN, ND
Menopause Type^® Questionnaire				Protocols Based On Menopause Primary Concern
				Addressing the Special Needs of Thyroid Hypofunction in Perimenopause, Menopause & Postmenopause Decreased thyroid function is frequently associated with perimenopause, menopause and the postmenopause due to the increased risk that women have for thyroid dysfunction. Even though both men and women are at higher risk for low thyroid function as they age, statistically women are much more likely to have hypothyroid function than men. For each pregnancy a woman has, her statistical probability for low thyroid function in her lifetime further increases. Women with family history of thyroid dysfunction are at additionally higher risk. Decreased thyroid function can be present even if lab tests show normal thyroid hormone levels. The prescribing of thyroid hormones, both natural and synthetic, may be a good choice if there is true thyroid disease with proper blood tests showing a true hormone deficiency. However, it is not uncommon to find that even after thyroid hormones are prescribed, there are persistent problems with weight gain, fatigue, depression and other signs of low thyroid function.
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Addressing the function of thyroid hormones, not just the levels, is the key to optimal thyroid health. Suboptimal function of thyroid hormones may be due to inadequate amounts of docosahexaenoic acid, an essential fatty acid that plays an important role in cell membrane health, and the hormone signaling, including thyroid hormone signaling.
Improved clinical outcomes, and more efficient thyroid function, is achieved by using phytotherapeutic formulations that work synergistically to restore and support the function of the thyroid gland, and the function of tissues that respond to thyroid hormones. Enhancing hormone function requires first & foremost healthy lifestyle and dietary habits as discussed in the Integrative Management of Endocrine Dysfunction document. Addressing the seven key functions associated with optimal thyroid health, as discussed below, is the most effective means of restoring thyroid function.
As noted, decreased thyroid function can be present even if lab tests show normal thyroid hormone levels.
Decreased Thyroid Function:
Decreased function of thyroid hormones may occur in perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause. Symptoms of decreased thyroid function include weight gain, fatigue, depressed mood, cognitive dysfunctions (decreased memory “brain fog”, poor concentration), constipation (or less than one bowel movement a day), cold hands and feet, and any patient specific symptom that suggests lowered metabolism. Low thyroid function often manifests as has “hypothyroidism”, the medical condition in which low levels of thyroid hormones can be demonstrated by blood tests. Hypothyroidism has been called the "great imitator" because is can mimic so many medical conditions. When there are signs of decreased thyroid function, choose:
		Thyro-Mend^™ - This unique combination of seaweeds and herbs synergistically supports the SEVEN KEY FUNCTIONS associated with OPTIMAL THYROID HEALTH, due to its ability to support: 1. Increased bio-available iodine for thyrocytes. 2. Increased iodine uptake by thyrocytes through interactions with sodium-iodide-symporter (NIS) proteins. 3. Increased T3 & T4 production and secretion from thyrocytes. 4. Increased conversion of thyroxine (T4) to the more bioactive triiodothyronine (T3) by liver cells. 5. Increased RXR/TR heterodimerization of thyroid receptors on target cells throughout the body. 6. Increased binding of thyroid hormone receptors to DNA by RXR/TR heterodimers throughout the body. 7. Increased affect of T3 on target gene expression within receptor cells throughout the body. More information on Thyro-Mend^™
Inadequate Essential Fatty Acid:
Docosahexaenoic acid modifies cell membranes by changing the lipid structure of the membrane in such a way as to actually affect how the cell accepts signals, such as hormone signals, and how molecules such as hormones move within the cell
		Opti DHA - provide high DHA:EPA ratio of essential fatty acids to improve cell membrane “listening” to hormones, including thyroid hormones
Also Review:
			Integrative Management of Endocrine Dysfunction
			Protocols based on Menopause Primary Concern
	♦These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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