For those of you who are reading this, and feel you only have one minute to spare, here's the short version for supplementing your diet to support your Thyroid:
Be sure to take a strong multivitamin with minerals, (Shaklee Vita-Lea), along with Vitamin C, (Shaklee Sustained Release Vita-C) each day. This has to be high-quality, such as can be purchased from Shaklee, as opposed to some of the larger national drug store brands in the same category as Centrum or Centrum Silver. Most nationally-advertised multiple vitamins sold in drugstores do not have the potency nor the bioavailability that thyroid sufferers need.
Other supplements to consider for Thyroid support are:
Iodine - Shaklee Vita-Lea
The first, of course, is iodine, which is very much a double-edged sword for thyroid sufferers. You absolutely need it, but not too much of it. The latest study, to look at this more carefully, was a 1999 report in Nutritional Review, by Lee, Bradley, Dwyer. These researchers tell us that the size of the population with iodine deficiency is now close to 10% of men, and 20% of women.
However, the other 80-90% do not need extra iodine, and for many of this majority, additional iodine can become a thyroid problem.
What to do? If you are a person who never consumes fast food, avoids salt like the plague, doesn't eat much seafood, and feels that sea vegetables are for fish, and especially if you live more than 100 miles from any coast, then you might well consider supplementation with iodine, the key mineral in thyroid hormone production.
If you are not in this category, you would probably do well to not take extra iodine, as you're likely to be getting more than enough from other sources, such as iodized salt and the natural sources of fish and sea vegetables.
This iodine dilemma is the major nutritional problem facing everyone. Worldwide, iodine deficiency diseases account for incalculable suffering in the form of goiter, miscarriage, infertility, and terrible sickness affecting over one billion people on the planet. This is a significant percentage of the human race.
However, in the US, the problem has been thought eliminated by the widespread distribution of iodine, first in bread dough, and in salt. Recently however, there has been resurgence of iodine deficiency, even in our country. It is a problem for specific people.
Researchers are presently working to develop a reliable and effective test for iodine, but at this point, we are not convinced that the available tests are up for the task. In light of all this, some thyroid specialists are suggesting that you hedge your bets and simply ingest each day an amount of iodine that will help if you are too low, but won't hurt if you are already sufficient.
This amount appears to be about 100 mcg (micro-grams) per day. However, if you find that you feel sick after eating iodized foods, you may want to avoid this nutrient.
Selenium - Shaklee Vita-E Complex
As you can see, the minerals may be more important for thyroid production than the vitamins, because the next two items on the list are the minerals selenium and zinc. Selenium is crucial in both the production of T-4 thyroid hormone (thyroxin) in the thyroid gland, as well as in the conversion of T-4 to T-3 thyroid hormone, the active form (thyroxin). Zinc is needed both before and after these production and conversion processes. Zinc is necessary for the TRH hypothalamus hormone to stimulate the pituitary gland, which signals the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone.
Zinc - Shaklee Zinc Complex
Moreover, zinc is needed at the intracellular level to help the thyroid nuclear receptors attach and drive the reading of the DNA genetic code. Keep in mind that the main function of thyroid hormone is to help put the genetic code into action.
Regarding selenium, we suggest 200 mcg (micro-grams) per day. This is, again, more than is contained in the common multiple mineral products. For zinc, we believe you can take at least 10 mg per day; please keep in mind that when taking 10-25 mg. of zinc, you need to balance that with one mg copper for the zinc-copper ration so useful for thyroid patients. Therefore a good product would contain 1-2 mg of copper in addition to the zinc.
Vitamin D - Shaklee Super Cal Mag Plus
In addition to these minerals, vitamin D is necessary for thyroid hormone production in the pituitary gland, and possibly in the early stages of T-3 (thyroxin) binding to its receptor. Vitamin E is part of the necessary supporting apparatus that enables the deiodinase enzyme to convert T-4 (inactive thyroid hormone) into T-3 (the active type).
It now appears that the amount of vitamin D people need has been grossly under-estimated, nor is it as toxic as first was thought. We recommend at least 800 IU of Vitamin D daily.
Vitamin E - Shaklee Vita-E Complex
The amount of vitamin E needed has likewise been undersold; we recommend 400-800 IU daily. This turns out to be more than is provided in most multiple vitamins, yet it allows for excellent antioxidant protection as well as helping menopausal women avoid hot flashes without resorting to estrogen.
There you have it - the 5 most essential nutrients for feeding the thyroid gland. Keep in mind, however, that these researchers based their studies, for the most part, on fairly healthy individuals. If you have had a thyroid problem of some duration, or if you have some other illness, in addition to your thyroid problem, then other recommendations apply to you.
These include:
Antioxidants - Shaklee CarotoMax & FlavoMax
A full-symphony antioxidant, not just the C and E, but especially 5000 - 10,000 IU of Vitamin A, which is usually present in most multiple products. The other antioxidants, such as lipoic acid, pygnogenol, etc. are often omitted in a multiple vitamin with minerals, but are indeed present in an antioxidant combo. We suggest, for people in this category, very strong anti-oxidant supplementation.
Essential Fats - Shaklee Essential Omega-3 Complex
Moreover, to have your thyroid get to where it needs to go, you are likely to need high doses of the essential fatty acids (EFA) in a 2:1 mix of Omega 3 and Omega 6.
Amino Acids - Shaklee Soy Protein
Finally, long-time sufferers would do well to take extra amino acids. Recall that thyroid hormone is basically the amino acid tyrosine with some iodines attached. Amino acid metabolism is crucial for thyroid function, but it is not just tyrosine that is needed. In fact, far better if full-symphony, free-form amino acids, a couple of grams per day
There you have it. Optimal thyroid nutrients can make an incredible difference, whether you are taking natural and/or synthetic medicines for your condition. Shaklee products are not only effective but they are also safe to use over the long run. In fact, that is when they will perform at their very best!
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Monday, November 08, 2004
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
How to Survive and Thrive During the Cold & Flu Season
Unless you’ve been living off the “electronic grid” by now you’ve heard that there’s a shortage of flu vaccines for the coming cold and flu season. The good news is that your body has its own defenses against viruses and bacteria, and that there are a lot of things you can do to stay well. The following are just some of the proactive steps you can take to keep colds and flu’s at bay, along with special notes on how Shaklee can help.
Get plenty of regular rest
8-10 hours for adults is best. The body regenerates and heals during sleep. A good old-fashioned nap is good for everyone. Sleep before 10 PM is a deeper, more restful sleep for most individuals. Children’s bedtime should be no later than 8-9 PM. They do their growing during sleep and need more sleep than adults.
Editor Note: For those having trouble sleeping try Shaklee’s Gentle Sleep Complex. For best results we recommend dropping three tablets of Gentle Sleep Complex into hot water and adding some honey, turning it into a hot tea and sipping it before bed. Creating a nighttime tea routine is an excellent way to get your rest. In fact, stress weakens our immune system, while routines overall help reduce stress! For more information on Gentle Sleep Complex go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/20603
Eat plenty of healthy foods, especially fruits and vegetables.
Cut up fruits and veggies for snacks. During the flu season especially, make pots of homemade vegetable or chicken soup with plenty of garlic (nature’s antibiotic), and organic chicken/beef stock, if possible.
Editor Note: For families who don’t eat a lot fresh fruits and vegetables especially in the winter months, considering supplementing with the Shaklee Antioxidant Pack containing Shaklee’s CarotoMax and Flavomax. Each contains unique concentrated extracts from literally hundreds of fruits and vegetables, providing more support to your immune system than you can get from your diet alone. For more information on Shaklee’s Powerful Antioxidant Solution go to:http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/59083
Regular Hand Washing
Regular Hand Washing is important to minimize transferring germs. Keep hands away from the eyes. Wash hands before putting ANYTHING in your mouth and after blowing your nose.
Editor Note: Use Shaklee Basic G® Concentrated Germicide to disinfect the laundry, bathrooms, doorknobs, phones, computer keyboards, etc. When you disinfect and clean with Shaklee’s Basic-G, the germs aren’t going to regrow for about 72 hours. In contrast, germ regrowth with bleach is about one hour. Also a product like Lysol® is effective against eight of the most common pathogens, but Basic-G kills thirty-two different pathogens! Basic G is approved for hospital use, and is economical too. Just ½ teaspoon of Basic-G added to 16oz of water in a spray bottle makes for an effective disinfectant solution you can spray all over the house. For more information on Shaklee’s Basic-G go to: http://www.shaklee.net.mcasey/product/BasicG
Drink plenty of pure water. It’s easy to become dehydrated in the winter time. Water keeps the toxins flushed out of our systems. Children need more water and less juice. The #1 cause of daytime fatigue and fuzzy thinking is dehydration. Our immune systems require us to be well-hydrated, so drink at least eight glasses of pure water a day.
Editor Note: Tap water is often not clean and tastes bad, and bottled water is expensive not to mention having to lug the water home. Shaklee’s line of BestWater purifiers can meet any family budget and provides good, clean, easily accessible drinking water for pennies a gallon. For more information on Shaklee’s complete line of BestWater purifiers go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/prodWat
Fresh air The EPA says the air in our homes is worse than the air outside. In the wintertime we keep windows and doors closed to keep the cold air out which can exacerbates the problem of indoor air pollution and the recirculation of germs and bacteria that come in the house.
Editor Note: Shaklee’s AirSource 3000 dramatically decreases the presence of all major forms of indoor air pollution including bacteria, and viruses, etc. Purifies the air in your home, school or office up to up to 3000 sq. ft. There’s also the AirSource Mobile unit for just one room and/or the car. Great for travel, too! For more information on AirSource go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/prodAir
Three Shaklee Supplements to build up your immune system With all the stress, pollution, germs and bacteria from a mobile, modern world, keeping your immune system running at optimal levels is more critical then ever before. Fortunately Shaklee offers solutions that harness nature in ways never before achieved, to support, stimulate and protect your immune system.
Shaklee Immune Building Complex: Developed by the discoverer of Interferon and extensively tested by immunologists in Japan, Shaklee Immune Building Complex contains an exclusive, proprietary blend of natural plant extracts which has been clinically proven to support and stimulate the natural immune response process at the cellular level. Supports and stimulates the immune system, by increasing the activity of macrophages and inducing natural interferon production. Optimizes immune response against environmental irritants and airborne substances (as with allergies and asthma). Completely safe – no adverse reactions to these plant extracts ever recorded.For more information go to: http://www.shaklee.net.mcasey/product/20660
Shaklee Defend & Resist: Echinacea has become the most prominent herb used both in the United States and in Europe. Shaklee’s Defend & Resist uses Echinacea and three other herbs to activate the immune system, promote production of white blood cells, enhance resistance to infection, viral and bacterial, especially flu and herpes; reduce mucus. Works best when started at the onset of cold or flu symptoms so take it as soon as possible when the first “tickle in the throat” appears. Can be used effectively for up to 10 days at a time. For more information go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/20613
Shaklee’s Vita-C Sustained Release 500mg.Vitamin C’s antioxidant property protects the body against free radicals. Boosts the immune system, infection fighter, natural antihistamine, increases the resistance to ligament and tendon injury. Vitamin C is depleted by stress such as infections, illness, fatigue, surgery, anxiety, pollution and extremes in temperature. Shaklee’s Vitamin C is unique in that it uses natural gums and waxes to provide a continuous stream of Vitamin C into your bloodstream over a 24-hour period. For more information on Vita-C go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/VitaC
Get plenty of regular rest
8-10 hours for adults is best. The body regenerates and heals during sleep. A good old-fashioned nap is good for everyone. Sleep before 10 PM is a deeper, more restful sleep for most individuals. Children’s bedtime should be no later than 8-9 PM. They do their growing during sleep and need more sleep than adults.
Editor Note: For those having trouble sleeping try Shaklee’s Gentle Sleep Complex. For best results we recommend dropping three tablets of Gentle Sleep Complex into hot water and adding some honey, turning it into a hot tea and sipping it before bed. Creating a nighttime tea routine is an excellent way to get your rest. In fact, stress weakens our immune system, while routines overall help reduce stress! For more information on Gentle Sleep Complex go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/20603
Eat plenty of healthy foods, especially fruits and vegetables.
Cut up fruits and veggies for snacks. During the flu season especially, make pots of homemade vegetable or chicken soup with plenty of garlic (nature’s antibiotic), and organic chicken/beef stock, if possible.
Editor Note: For families who don’t eat a lot fresh fruits and vegetables especially in the winter months, considering supplementing with the Shaklee Antioxidant Pack containing Shaklee’s CarotoMax and Flavomax. Each contains unique concentrated extracts from literally hundreds of fruits and vegetables, providing more support to your immune system than you can get from your diet alone. For more information on Shaklee’s Powerful Antioxidant Solution go to:http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/59083
Regular Hand Washing
Regular Hand Washing is important to minimize transferring germs. Keep hands away from the eyes. Wash hands before putting ANYTHING in your mouth and after blowing your nose.
Editor Note: Use Shaklee Basic G® Concentrated Germicide to disinfect the laundry, bathrooms, doorknobs, phones, computer keyboards, etc. When you disinfect and clean with Shaklee’s Basic-G, the germs aren’t going to regrow for about 72 hours. In contrast, germ regrowth with bleach is about one hour. Also a product like Lysol® is effective against eight of the most common pathogens, but Basic-G kills thirty-two different pathogens! Basic G is approved for hospital use, and is economical too. Just ½ teaspoon of Basic-G added to 16oz of water in a spray bottle makes for an effective disinfectant solution you can spray all over the house. For more information on Shaklee’s Basic-G go to: http://www.shaklee.net.mcasey/product/BasicG
Drink plenty of pure water. It’s easy to become dehydrated in the winter time. Water keeps the toxins flushed out of our systems. Children need more water and less juice. The #1 cause of daytime fatigue and fuzzy thinking is dehydration. Our immune systems require us to be well-hydrated, so drink at least eight glasses of pure water a day.
Editor Note: Tap water is often not clean and tastes bad, and bottled water is expensive not to mention having to lug the water home. Shaklee’s line of BestWater purifiers can meet any family budget and provides good, clean, easily accessible drinking water for pennies a gallon. For more information on Shaklee’s complete line of BestWater purifiers go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/prodWat
Fresh air The EPA says the air in our homes is worse than the air outside. In the wintertime we keep windows and doors closed to keep the cold air out which can exacerbates the problem of indoor air pollution and the recirculation of germs and bacteria that come in the house.
Editor Note: Shaklee’s AirSource 3000 dramatically decreases the presence of all major forms of indoor air pollution including bacteria, and viruses, etc. Purifies the air in your home, school or office up to up to 3000 sq. ft. There’s also the AirSource Mobile unit for just one room and/or the car. Great for travel, too! For more information on AirSource go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/prodAir
Three Shaklee Supplements to build up your immune system With all the stress, pollution, germs and bacteria from a mobile, modern world, keeping your immune system running at optimal levels is more critical then ever before. Fortunately Shaklee offers solutions that harness nature in ways never before achieved, to support, stimulate and protect your immune system.
Shaklee Immune Building Complex: Developed by the discoverer of Interferon and extensively tested by immunologists in Japan, Shaklee Immune Building Complex contains an exclusive, proprietary blend of natural plant extracts which has been clinically proven to support and stimulate the natural immune response process at the cellular level. Supports and stimulates the immune system, by increasing the activity of macrophages and inducing natural interferon production. Optimizes immune response against environmental irritants and airborne substances (as with allergies and asthma). Completely safe – no adverse reactions to these plant extracts ever recorded.For more information go to: http://www.shaklee.net.mcasey/product/20660
Shaklee Defend & Resist: Echinacea has become the most prominent herb used both in the United States and in Europe. Shaklee’s Defend & Resist uses Echinacea and three other herbs to activate the immune system, promote production of white blood cells, enhance resistance to infection, viral and bacterial, especially flu and herpes; reduce mucus. Works best when started at the onset of cold or flu symptoms so take it as soon as possible when the first “tickle in the throat” appears. Can be used effectively for up to 10 days at a time. For more information go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/20613
Shaklee’s Vita-C Sustained Release 500mg.Vitamin C’s antioxidant property protects the body against free radicals. Boosts the immune system, infection fighter, natural antihistamine, increases the resistance to ligament and tendon injury. Vitamin C is depleted by stress such as infections, illness, fatigue, surgery, anxiety, pollution and extremes in temperature. Shaklee’s Vitamin C is unique in that it uses natural gums and waxes to provide a continuous stream of Vitamin C into your bloodstream over a 24-hour period. For more information on Vita-C go to: http://www.shaklee.net/mcasey/product/VitaC
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