For 70% of women with slow thyroid MEDS CAN BACKFIRE

The hypothyroid Rx levothyroxine is the second-most prescribed drug in the United States, but it is ineffective for mild thyroid problems, a new study reveals. “At least 70 percent of women have mild hypothyroidism—and more than 95 percent are prescribed synthetic hormones called thyroxines when another medication would be more effective,” says thyroid specialist Kent Holtorf, M.D.

Why thyroxines fail: They’re the inactive form of thyroid hormone (T4), which the body must convert to the active form (T3). But many women can’t make the conversion, so at best, the drugs do nothing; at worst T4 is converted into

reverse T3, which blocks active thyroid hormones and worsens symptoms.

Once a woman starts levothyroxine, tests will show improved hormone levels even if symptoms get worse, says Thyroid Mind Power author Richard Shames, M.D. “In such cases, doctors usually focus on the lab results and keep the patient on suboptimal medicine.”

If you suspect hypothyroidism, ask for a T3/reverse T3 ratio test and a TSH test. Those with severe gland slowdowns may need natural desiccated thyroid hormone, an active T3 form that Dr. Holtorf says works for 70 percent of women. For mild cases, the steps below can help.

Paleo diets restore energy for up to 80 percent of women with slow thyroid, Dr. Holtorf says. The plans favor gland-nourishing fats, hormonefree meats, eggs, seafood and organic produce while limiting thyroid-slowing grains, legumes, dairy, sugar and salt.

Try iodine: 7 in 10 women are deficient in the mineral, which is key to the creation of thyroid hormones. Dr. Holtorf advises a daily dose of 150 mcg, along with 200 mcg of selenium, which helps the body use iodine.