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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 6 years

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Resolving Acne Naturally

Excess androgen production can be a major concern as it can lead to acne, excess body hair and mood disorders.

Hormonal Acne

Þ Cysts are pus-filled, painful and inflamed red bumps. They often culminate in a peak of white pus.

Þ Mild forms are called comedones. These are those whitehead “bumps” that never break the surface.

Þ Smaller lesions are not quite as angry and painful as cysts, and may appear more rash-like or just smaller than typical acne.

Location

Þ Hormonal acne occurs first and foremost around the mouth: on the chin, below the nose, around the sides of the mouth, and sometimes up the jawline.

Þ As hormonal acne worsens, however, it spreads to the cheeks and the forehead.

Þ Other body parts can be affected: shoulders, and back.

Hormones and Sebum

Acne develops as the glands deep inside the skin's pores become clogged.

This typically happens because the body is producing too much of an oily substance called sebum. Sebum production is directly controlled by male-type hormones called androgens, one example of which is testosterone.

Ovulation and Androgens

Hormone levels change right around the time of ovulation. Among other things, testosterone levels spike, notes a study published in 1981 in "Psychosomatic Medicine" by P. Schreiner-Engel and colleagues. This testosterone increases sebum production, which then clogs pores.

Diet

Reduce Sugar, Refined Carbs, and Dairy.

Vitamins and Minerals

Þ Vitamin B6 – can help balance prolactin levels, a hormone often elevated in PCOS.

Þ Chromium – essential for proper blood sugar regulation. Taking chromium (also known as insulin tolerance factor) increases the uptake of glucose into cells, decreasing insulin resistance.

Þ Vitamin D – essential for healthy ovulation.

Magnesium.

Many women with PCOS exhibit symptoms of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, risk factors that raise the risk for heart disease and other problems like diabetes and stroke. Low magnesium levels are often associated with diabetes, and some research indicates that a dietary supplement of the mineral may improve insulin sensitivity, a factor in the development of type 2 diabetes and PCOS. One studyfound that overweight, insulin-resistant subjects who received 300 mg of magnesium at bedtime showed a significant improvement in fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, compared to subjects who received a placebo.

Chromium.

Chromium is an essential mineral that helps the body regulate insulin and blood sugar levels. Some research suggests that chromium supplements can help people with diabetes lower their blood glucose levels. One study examined the role of the mineral in women with PCOS. The results indicated that 200 mcg daily of chromium picolinate significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and insulin levels in subjects — enough that the effects were comparable to the pharmaceutical, metformin. While metformin was also associated with lower levels of testosterone, taking a daily dose of 200 mcg of chromium picolinate could help regulate blood sugar levels.

Herbal Medicines

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens)

An effective hormone balancer, an anti-androgen, blocks 5-alpha-reductase activity and reduces the conversion of the testosterone into a more active form called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This makes saw palmetto an excellent choice in the treatment of acne, hair loss, and facial hair growth. Naturopaths often suggest this herb for the treatment of PCOS because it helps correct the hormonal imbalance.

Take 320 mg of standardized saw palmetto extract daily for a few months. If you are taking a liquid extract, take one teaspoon per day.

Note: Make sure to consult a licensed naturopathic physician before taking this or any other herbal remedy for PCOS to ensure safe and effective use of the herbs.

Þ Reshi

Þ Red Clover

Other Natural Supplements

Inositol – a B-like vitamin, inositol has many benefits for PCOS – it decreases insulin resistance, decreases testosterone levels and helps to promote regular ovulation. It is a super-star for PCOS treatment.

Berberine – compared in studies to metformin, berberine has powerful actions on blood sugar regulation and insulin resistance. It can reduce testosterone, and androgens. Women taking berberine also achieved greater weight loss in some studies.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed can also be used to combat PCOS as it helps decrease androgen levels. It contains lignans that increase the production of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) that binds testosterone in the blood, thereby preventing it from wreaking havoc in the body.

Plus, being high in fiber, flaxseed helps slow down glucose metabolism and lower cholesterol levels. The omega-3 fatty acids in this superfood also reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease.

Mix one or two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseeds in a glass of water. Drink it daily for a few months or until you are satisfied with the results.

Also include ground flaxseeds in your diet regularly by adding it to your smoothies, soups and salads.

Herbal Teas

Licorice Root

Excess androgen production has been shown to favorably react to the intake of licorice, so find some dried licorice root in your organic store and drink it as a herbal tea.

Spearmint

Spearmint tea has anti-androgenic properties reducing hirsutism, or excess body hair, by reducing free and total testosterone levels and increasing luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels.

Cinnamon

can help improve menstrual cyclicityin women with PCOS and reduce insulin resistance. Add one teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a glass of hot water and drink it daily for a few months or until you are satisfied with the results. Alternatively, you can take this herb in supplement form after consulting your doctor. It is usually suggested to take one capsule (1,000 mg) three times a day. You can also include this spice in your diet by sprinkling cinnamon powder on your cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, cottage cheese, peanut butter sandwich and on other foods. Note: You need not take more than two teaspoons of this spice per day. If you are taking this herb to combat insulin resistance, consult your doctor first as it may lower your blood sugar level.

Blood Tests for Hormone Levels

1) high testosterone from PCOS (specifically the overweight and insulin resistant type of PCOS),

2) low estrogen from low body fat levels, chronic restriction, or living in an energy deficit,

3) low estrogen from menopause,

4) high progesterone from general hormone imbalance, possibly related to PMS,

5) any of these conditions worsened by stress or

6) hypothyroidism – low T3 prevents the skin from healing.

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 7 years

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Low T3 was always the problem

I started this blog to explore the alternatives to taking the pill for my ‘ovulation syndrome’. I called it this because I noticed that my symptoms of tiredness, anxiety, brain-fog, itchy scalp, cracked hands, and in the early days, vomiting, all got worse during menstruation and more-so during ovulation.

After not doing well on NDT due to conversion issues I found a consultant who prescribes T3. I believe T3 should be a last resort and it certainly was for me. The interesting thing is that once I had started taking a combination of T3 and NDT by replacing two of my smaller doses of NDT with T3 (0600 60mg NDT, 1200 12.5mcg T3, 1600 12.5mcg T3) I felt much better. To the extent that I was working again, socialising more, and generally engaging with life again!

However, I got a huge shock during menstruation and ovulation when I went right back to having horrible hypothyroid symptoms for five days at each time - a total of 10 days a month. My GP had once told me that I should just accept that the SSRI was working for most of the time and be thankful! I’m so glad I didn’t!

My consultant said that many female thyroid patients experience hypo symptoms during menstruation and they increase their dose during that time. So I increased my dose by 12.5mcg three times per day and it worked!

The NHS wanted me to be on SSRIs and the pill for the rest of my life and all along it was low T3 but they wouldn’t test me for it even when I asked.

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 7 years

Link

I have set up the group Natural Thyroid Health UK on FaceBook for anyone wanting support with following Dr Brownstein's Iodine Protocol or for further information about treating hypothyroidism with Iodine and NDT following Stop the Thyroid Madness guidance. You are very welcome to join :-)

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 8 years

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What is this blog about?

I decided to write this blog so that I have a place to keep all of the information I have collected with regard to natural ways to help balance my hormones. I am sharing it so that you might find the answers you need regarding PMS, PND, heavy periods, irregular cycles, endometriosis, brain-fog, fatigue during menstruation and/or ovulation, breast cysts, ovarian cysts and more.

My GP diagnosed me with PND after the birth of both of my children, which was significantly worse with my second. This took the form of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), nausea, vomiting, panic attacks, waking in the morning at 4am unable to get back to sleep, racing thoughts, and a general feeling of being ‘speedy’, and brain-fog causing an inability to think or function properly.

By tracking my symptoms in a diary I noticed that some came back during menstruation and ovulation and that the symptoms were worse at ovulation. I tried Googling ‘ovulation syndrome’ yet there seems to be no recognised issue despite the fact that PMS exists at the time of menstruation.

My GP prescribed antidepressants and the pill. I took the anti-depressants because I was desperate and living in a waking hell but I refused any hormones. I knew that antidepressants and the pill may relieve some symptoms but they do not solve the underlying problem. To address the cause I went for psychotherapy, acupuncture, took Chinese herbs, started high-dose Iodine supplementation, and I started meditating daily. All of these helped my recovery.

I eventually discovered that I have a thyroid condition called hypothyroidism which is an underactive thyroid. This was not diagnosed by the NHS thyroid tests and is the most commonly underdiagnosed condition in the Western world. It is likely that the underlying cause of your hormonal problems are lack of iodine combined with halide toxicity which causes hypothyroidism.

The most powerful information I have found is about Iodine and how it can support the body and I have had amazing results with high-dose Iodoral which I would strongly encourage you to look into.

There are lots of posts on here in no-particular order so keep scrolling through and message me if you need help :-)

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 8 years

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Supplements for Hormone Balancing

Over the last 10 years, as well as making changes to my diet, I have developed this supplement regime through my reading on the subject and also through consultations with nutritionists and naturopaths.

1. Multi-Vitamins

Morley Robbins recommends avoiding supplements containing Iron, Vitamin D, and Vitamin C in the form of Ascorbic Acid. Iron causes toxicity and copper imbalance. Vitamin D deficiency is caused by Magnesium deficiency so it is better to increase magnesium. Ascorbic Acid causes copper deficiency. More info on the web here https://therootcauseprotocol.com and here http://gotmag.org and on FaceBook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MagnesiumAdvocacy/.

2. Vitamin D3 Supplement

Vitamin D is in fact a hormone that affects the functioning of every part of the body from the immune system to the brain. Deficiency lowers oestrogen in women, which lowers the neurotransmitters serotonin and GABA causing anxiety, depression, irritability, and low mood. Adequate Vitamin D levels are important because they affect progesterone. Unless you are getting 20 minutes of sun exposure, without sunscreen, 365 days a year then you need to take an additional DAILY D3 supplement. Don’t take at night because it can preventing you from sleeping. I am now following the Root Cause Protocol so I take Rosita Cod Liver oil and not Hormone D. More info on the web here https://therootcauseprotocol.com and here http://gotmag.org and on FaceBook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MagnesiumAdvocacy/.

3. Vitamin-B Complex

Although Beyond Tangy Tangerine 2.0 includes B-Vitamin Complex it is necessary to support the hormones and adrenals with a higher dose than is recommended. I take one Doctors Best Active B Complex at lunch time. Don’t take at night because B-Vitamins can be very energising preventing you from sleeping. http://www.bodykind.com/product/5178-Best-Fully-Active-B-With-Quatrefolic-30-Vegicaps-.aspx

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C supports adrenal function, which in turn affects hormone production. I am now following the Root Cause Protocol so I use whole food Vitamin C and not ascorbic acid. More info on the web here https://therootcauseprotocol.com and here http://gotmag.org and on FaceBook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MagnesiumAdvocacy/.

5. Magnesium

Magnesium assists in adrenal function and is often lacking in our nutrient depleted soils so we simply don’t get enough through diet alone. It helps with oestrogen detoxification. Transdermal application is the most effective method of delivery. I apply 20 sprays of Better You Magnesium Oil before bed to aid sleep. http://www.bodykind.com/product/7143-BetterYou-Magnesium-Oil-Sensitive-Spray-100ml.aspx

The Magnesium Advocacy Group has lots more information on the types of magnesium available and the benefits. On the web here http://gotmag.org and on FaceBook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MagnesiumAdvocacy/.

6. Iodine

Iodine is an essential micronutrient which nourishes every cell in the body and is critical for normal thyroid function which in turn affects hormone balance. It is impossible to get enough from Western diets as we do not eat enough shellfish or seaweed. Not only does it detox the body of heavy metals and other toxins, it flushes out halides such as fluoride, chlorine, and bromine which block iodine receptors and prevent iodine absorption causing chronic deficiency. Build up to at least 50mg per day for 6 months to full detox and restore levels. I take Lugol’s first thing in the morning. Ensure you take the supporting nutrients in the recommended doses - see my detailed posts on Iodine.

Lugol’s solution is available on Amazon in liquid form at different strengths. Use this tool to calculate how much is in each drop at each strength: dose in a drop calculator by Micah Coffey http://dropulator.com

Hakala LugoTabs are available in 3mg, 12.5mg, 25mg, and 50mg. Formulated by J. Charles Hakala - a member of the original “Iodine Project” team. Available in the UK on eBay: https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/hakala_lugotabs_uk/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=

After six months at 50mg take a 24 Hour Iodine Loading Test to check your levels of Iodine, Bromine, Chlorine, and Fluoride: https://www.hakalalabs.com/testing-services/24-hour-urine-iodine-loading-test-with-options-of-bromide-or-fluoride-test-kits.html

7. Vitamin E

Vitamin E reduces the production of prostaglandins which helps with the symptoms of PMS. I take Solgar Vitamin E which is the best because it contains mixed tocopherols http://www.bodykind.com/product/3356-Solgar-Vitamin-E-268mg-250-x-400iu-Softgels.aspx.

8. Essential Fatty Acids

I take Star Flower Oil because it is higher in GLA than Evening Primrose Oil.

9. Support the Gut

Probiotics help to heal the gut which affects brain and immune system function. BioKult is recommended by GAPs practitioners but even better is making your own Kefir which is cheaper and more potent.

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 8 years

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Self-Help for Hormones

I started menstruating at age 11, which is three years earlier than was the norm in my grandmother’s time. I had PMT, acne, facial hair, period pain, heavy flow, backache, and felt depressed. I then went on to develop PCOS and breast cysts and had difficulty conceiving by the time I reached my mid-30s. I went to the GP over and over again and was only ever offered the pill or anti-depressants, both of which fail to address the underlying problem of hormone imbalance, which in my case was caused by an underactive thyroid.

Over the years I consulted various GPs. I was prescribed the pill and I had several hormone blood tests and a thyroid test and was always sent away because they were ‘in the normal range’, which I now know can be too wide.

After successfully treating my PCOS with acupuncture, which was confirmed by before and afters scans, I decided to change my lifestyle to ensure that they did not return. I have spent the last ten years, in between having two beautiful daughters entirely naturally, to researching nutrition and supplements to help my body. I discovered that poor diet was affecting my hormones through lack of essential nutrients together with hypothyroidism caused by environmental toxins. I hope this information can help you and your daughters too.

1. Nutrition

There isn’t much point in spending money on complementary therapies until you have sorted out the lifestyle choices that could be contributing to poor nutrition.

Cut out refined carbohydrates, refined sugar, alcohol, MSG, and caffeine.

Refined carbohydrates such as baked goods made from white flour have very little nutritional value and cause your blood sugar to spike. Reduce carbs and eat as advised by Weston A Price http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/be-kind-to-your-grains-and-your-grains-will-be-kind-to-you/.

Sugar is an anti-nutrient that strips essential minerals from your reserves as your body attempts to break it down. Depleted levels of calcium, chromium, magnesium and zinc leave your hormones in chaos.

Alcohol damages the gut lining, leaving it permeable and ‘leaky’. It also breaks down B-vitamins and antioxidants such as vitamin C.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) causes neurological problems. Cut out all sources of MSG: hydrolyzed protein, hydrolyzed oat flour, sodium caseinate, calcium caseinate, autolyzed yeast or yeast extract, gelatin, and glutamic acid.

Coffee inhibits iron absorption, affects B-vitamins, and raises cortisol. Disrupted cortisol causes weight gain and fatigue in the evenings.

Before spending money on supplements, healing your gut is essential so that your body can successfully absorb nutrients. If you drink alcohol or have taken antibiotics your gut flora will be damaged. See Gut & Psychology Syndrome by Natasha Campbell-McBride, or visit the website http://www.doctor-natasha.com/.

Following a low carb diet such as Weston A Price Foundation (WAPF) for a nutrient dense eating plan that doesn’t remove any food groups. Read Sally Fallon’s Nourishing Traditions.

WAPF also promotes the use of good fats such as lard, goose, and coconut for frying and roasting instead of vegetable oils which are too high in omega 6. EVOO should never be heated, reserve for pouring. Coconut oil has the benefit of calming the thyroid so it is good to add to smoothies, juices, or hot drinks.

2. Xanoestrogens

Remove all plastics in the kitchen from food storage containers, bottles of water, to drinking vessels and switch to stainless steel, ceramic, or glass. Plastics contain xanoestrogens which mimic oestrogen in the body and bind to the receptors causing havoc with your hormones. Never microwave ready meals in plastic containers as heating increases the amount of toxins released - always decant into ceramic dishes for the oven or cook in a pan on the hob.

Always eat organic meat, vegetables, and fruit where possible to avoid the growth hormones, pesticides, and antibiotics all of which can disrupt the endocrine system.

These toxins are responsible for causing early puberty in girls: menstruation used to start at around age 14 in our grandmothers’ time, now girls are showing signs of puberty as early as 9.

3. Supplements

For more detailed information about each nutrient see the post about Supplements for Hormone Balancing.

B-Vitamin Complex: Jarrow B Right.

Vitamin C: Acerola Powder.

Magnesium: Better You Magnesium Oil from http://www.bodykind.com/product/7143-BetterYou-Magnesium-Oil-Sensitive-Spray-100ml.aspx.

Iodine: Lugol’s Iodine - drops or tablets. Lugol’s solution is available on Amazon in liquid form at different strengths. Use this tool to calculate how much is in each drop at each strength: dose in a drop calculator by Micah Coffey http://dropulator.com Hakala LugoTabs are available in 3mg, 12.5mg, 25mg, and 50mg. Formulated by J. Charles Hakala - a member of the original “Iodine Project” team. Available in the UK from FaceBook in the group Natural Thyroid Health UK: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NaturalThyroidHealth

Vitamin E: Solgar Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) http://www.bodykind.com/product/3356-Solgar-Vitamin-E-268mg-250-x-400iu-Softgels.aspx.

Essential Fatty Acids: Youngevity Ultimate EFA Plus from: http://stores.ebay.co.uk/youngevitynutritionuk/.

Probiotics: BioKult or make your own Kefir which is cheaper and more potent.

Higher Nature Wild Yam Cream - see posts on this for further information.

4. Complementary Therapies

I have found all of the following treatments helpful.

Acupuncture: when my cycle returned after both my babies I had heavy, irregular bleeding. Acupuncture put me on a 28 day cycle with minimal blood loss for only 4 days for the first time in my life.

Reflexology: I found this treatment very gentle and relaxing. Particularly useful during pregnancy when acupuncture isn’t recommended.

Homeopathy: see a registered homeopath for a personalised consultation.

Natrum Muriaticum 200c or Sepia 200c keep hormones in balance.

Passiflora 200c regulates oestrogen after menstruation up to ovulation.

Progesterone 200c increases progesterone after ovulation.

Chinese Herbs: since my cycle returned after my 2nd baby I was ovulating on days 9-12. This is too early. I consulted a Dr of Chinese herbal medicine who has put a personalised remedy of Chinese Herbs together for me and I am experiencing good results with ovulation occurring later at day 14.

5. Progesterone Cream

Bio-identicals are getting a lot of positive publicity at the moment but personally I feel that you need to get the body working properly to tackle hormone imbalances. In my opinion, progesterone cream, whether synthetic or bio-identical, is simply masking the problem, although it is a better solution to than the pill. I am also reticent because I have read that progesterone resistance can occur when the receptors are bombarded with extra progesterone and causes them to no-longer respond, which is not going to be helpful in the long term.

I use Higher Nature Wild Yam Cream. See separate post below for further information.

If you are at the end of the road and want to try them I would suggest getting professional help from somewhere like the Marian Gluck Clinic in London or Dr Meyer at the Bosham Clinic in Fishbourne, Chichester.

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 8 years

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Iodine Testing: Hakala Labs

My last 24 Hour Iodine Loading Test was in January 2016 so it is time to do another test. I have decided to go for The Hakala Labs 24 Hour Urine Loading Test with the Bromide Analysis option. This test is recommended by Dr Brownstein.

This is an in depth test to evaluate whole body sufficiency for Iodine. After ingesting a 50mg LugoTab tablet urine is collected for 24 hours. Iodine sufficiency is determined by comparing the amount of Iodine taken to the amount excreted in the urine. Whole body Iodine sufficiency is reached when 90% or more of the ingested amount is excreted in the urine.

To order from the UK call 001 877 238 1779 after 1630 UK time (Hakala Labs are on Mountain Standard Time).

www.hakalalabs.com

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Hakala Test Result March 2017:

After being on 50-100mg Iodoral for 1.5 years ( 50mg for 1 year before gradually increasing to 100mg which I was on for 3 months before testing) I am still only 85% saturated with above average bromide levels: 5.9mg (lab ref range = <5mg/24 hour with average being 1-2mg). I still need to detox more bromine so that I can become 90% saturated with iodine. Hakala Labs warn that ‘any level of Bromide should be addressed, it competes with Iodine for receptor sites and inhibits Iodine absorption’.

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ovulationsyndrome-blog · 8 years

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BioIdentical Hormone Replacement Threapy (HRT)

This blog has been about documenting my research into balancing hormones naturally. I have had great success with nutritional changes, supplements, herbs, and acupuncture. However, I have been unable to fully address the final problem of fatigue and brain-fog during ovulation and menstruation. This has now been explained by the results of my hormone tests with Dr Meyer: very low oestradiol - one of the three types of oestrogen. Dr Meyer has said that the only way to resolve the problem is to put the missing hormone back into my body using bio-identical hormones which are a natural alternative to conventional HRT.

I had always assumed that HRT was for women in their late 40s experiencing perimenopause, the transition to the menopause. The ‘change’ usually lasts for five years which can be very difficult for some women who experience debilitating symptoms such as: sweats, insomnia, mood-swings, weight gain all of which negatively impact their lives. I am 43 and my hormonal problems worsened after the birth of my first child 6 years ago. I have always suffered with irregular periods, long cycles, PMT, acne, heavy bleeding and Dr Meyer says that this could be due to a genetic problem with oestrogen production.

Conventional HRT

Conventional HRT has two fundamental problems: the hormones used are not identical to those produced by the body and they are given in standardised doses.

Conventional HRT works by replacing oestrogen and progesterone but the versions used are not the same as the hormones produced by the body. The most widely-used brand of oestrogen in conventional HRT is Premarin which is derived from the urine of pregnant mares and therefore contains forms of oestrogen only found in horses. The replacement for progesterone is Progestin which has a slightly different chemical structure to the natural version of the hormone because it is synthetic progesterone made in a laboratory. [3]

Although conventional HRT uses hormones similar to human hormones because they are not exactly the same they can make life worse for some women. They can confuse the hormonal system causing side-effects such as high blood pressure, fatigue, bloating, and headaches. Conventional HRT has also been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and heart disease.

'Replacing the oestrogen that your body is no longer producing with the versions found in conventional HRT is like replacing parts designed for a Chevvy with those made for a Mercedes,' says Dr Jonathan Wright, medical director of Tahoma Clinic, Washington. 'They may be almost the same, but with both engine parts and biology, very precise measurement matters.' [3]

In addition, conventional HRT comes in standardised doses which means that they may be either too strong or too weak for some women causing symptoms to worsen or remain effectively untreated. This one-size-fits-all approach is inappropriate for the treatment of symptoms that can vary hugely from one woman to another depending on their individual hormone levels.

Risks of Conventional HRT

The use of hormones from animal or synthetic sources in standardised doses means that it doesn’t work for all women. In addition, because conventional HRT is slightly different it has been linked with a number of damaging side effects including coronary artery spasms and an increase in the fats in the blood. [3]

In 2002 a large US government study found that conventional HRT can increase the risks of heart disease, stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer but only by one extra case in 1,000 women. Many experts say the study was irrelevant to most women. 'It involved women over 60 who had been oestrogen- deficient for ten years so they were more at risk to both cancer and heart disease than a woman taking HRT at the beginning of the menopause in her early 50s,' explains Dr Sarah Jarvis, a spokesperson for the Royal College of GPs. [3]

In 2014 the Lancet review of over 50 studies linked the synthetic hormones in conventional HRT to an increased risk of ovarian cancer but the British Menopause Society now states that the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks.

Dr Erika Schwartz says that the risk of breast cancer comes from ‘high levels of unopposed oestrogen (without balancing progesterone) - whether this is oestrogen from exposure to chemicals, radiation, synthetic HRT, or even supplements such as isoflavones derived from soy taken without supervision. I have been taking bio-identical hormones for 19 years, and have treated thousands of patients with them. And, to the best of my knowledge, none, not one, has gone on to develop any form of cancer while under my care.” [1]

Artificial standardised hormones can cause nausea, blood clots, mood swings, weight gain, and excess bleedings. Because bio-identical hormones are identical to female hormones they are more easily metabolised by the body so there are potentially fewer side-effects. [2]

Profit Before Health

Although bio-identicals have received increasing attention during the last ten years I was surprised to discover that they were originally developed over 70 years ago. The reason they have not been more widely used is driven by the greed of the big pharmaceutical companies. Because they are not allowed to patent naturally occurring compounds from plants they deliberately make versions that are slightly different so that they can be patented. A patented drug is therefore worth more money to the pharmaceutical company so that is where they focus their efforts, to the detriment of women’s health. [3]

Natural Hormones

Bio-identical hormones are derived from plants and their chemical structure is identical to human hormones so their action on the delicate hormonal system is more gentle than the conventional form. Bio-identical oestrogen is made from plant based oestradiol derived from soy and yam oils which comes in the form of pills, patches, and creams. Plant-based progesterone (micronised progesterone) is derived from yams and is available as a vaginal pessary and in tablet form known as Utrogestan.

Bio-identicals are far superior to conventional HRT because the preparations are tailor made to suit the individual needs of each woman. Private GPs and clinics prescribe tailored doses made by compounding pharmacies based on the results of hormonal tests. This means that the treatment is more effective and there are no dangers of overdosing.

Bio-Identicals on the NHS

The standard view of the NHS is that aging women are better off with HRT than without it but this is usually given in the conventional forms because GPs wrongly believe natural hormones don’t work. However, natural HRT is available in licensed commercial preparations such as Estrogel, Estraderm and Hormonin which contain a standardised dose of oestrogen and progesterone. [3] GPs can also prescribe Utrogestan, a natural progesterone which comes in tablet form and is more effective than patches. [1]

The problem is that few NHS doctors know about these treatments. Dr Erika Schwartz advises women to ask their GP which forms of the standardised commercial preparations of natural hormones are available to prescribe.

Dr Nick Panay, consultant gynaecologist at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, supports the use of the licensed forms of bio-identical hormones which are available on the NHS. He believes that these approved bio-identical hormones 'should be regarded as part of HRT'. 'The crisis of confidence in HRT after the study showing the cancer risk has meant there has been a lack of promotion and education. But these licensed bio-identicals should be one of the options available,' says Dr Panay. [3]

Hormone Testing

Some GPs criticise the individualised prescribing of natural HRT because blood tests can only give a snap shot of hormone levels and a specific time and women’s hormone levels fluctuate according to the menstrual cycle. However, what these critics fail to recognise is the use of saliva tests.

Because I am still menstruating and I have a regular cycle Dr Meyer advised me to do the Genova Rhythm Plus Comprehensive Female Profile (END11) which measures adrenal stress hormones on four occasions through one day, and measures levels of Oestrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone on 12 days throughout the menstrual cycle via saliva collection. It costs approx £190.00 and is also good for menstruating women who suffer from PMS.

http://www.genovadiagnostics.com/files/profile_assets/further_information/rhythm_1pager.pdf

Which Hormones

I have a deficiency in oestradiol but because I am still menstruating I will need to take a combination of oestrogen and progesterone. The progesterone protects the womb lining from the thickening effect of the oestrogen reducing the risk of uterine cancer.

Post-menopausal women or those who have had a hysterectomy may be prescribed oestrogen only.

Testosterone

Dr Erika Schwartz: “I believe testosterone can be a useful addition to the natural hormone mix for women because it keeps energy levels up, boosts muscle and bone production, improves libido and a sense of well-being. So many of my patients want to try it, but are afraid of growing whiskers or becoming baritones, but the doses women need for a libido boost are far smaller than the dose needed to turn them into men. However, in the UK testosterone is not licensed for women, so your GP would have to agree to prescribe it to you on an off-label basis (which means they take responsibility if anything goes wrong); you can also get it from a private doctor.” [1]

Forms of Bio-Identicals

Natural hormonal preparations come in the form of capsules, tablets, gels, creams, or sub-lingual lozenges. The effect of tablets can be influenced by food, stress levels, illnesses, and other medications. Oestrogen is best applied twice a day as a cream or gel rubbed into the skin of the shoulder or forearm. Dr Schwartz recommends not applying it to the thighs or stomach as it may cause cellulite. Progesterone is best absorbed in tablet form at night because it has a sedating effect.

Efficacy and Safety

In 2009 a major review of over 200 studies on bio-identicals was published in the Postgraduate Medical Journal. It concluded that they were more effective and had greater health benefits than conventional HRT.

'Many physicians state there is no evidence they are safer,' says the author Dr Ken Holtorf, 'but the medical literature clearly shows they are highly effective and have some distinctly different, often opposite, physiological effects to regular HRT.' [3]

Treatment Duration

In response to the research about the risks of HRT NHS GPs were advising that conventional HRT should only be taken for five years. But it shouldn’t be necessary to stop natural HRT if it is taken in moderation under the guidance of a specialist. Studies have shown that individualised HRT is safer and more effective, so as long as you are feeling the benefits it can be taken indefinitely. [2] It is advised that women gradually reduce the dose and have trial breaks to avoid the returning symptoms from sudden withdrawal.

Dr Schwartz says: “What is key is follow-ups with supportive and knowledgeable physicians, and that women take care of themselves by eating right, exercising, getting enough sleep and dealing with stress.” [1]

References

1. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3251354/Could-natural-HRT-transform-life-No-woman-facing-menopause-miss-natural-way-end-hot-flushes.html

2. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2442081/Could-designer-HRT-stop-menopausal-women-suffering-HRT-effects.html

3. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1197933/Should-middle-aged-women-taking-natural-HRT.html

Dr Annelize Meyer is based in Chichester: The Bosham Clinic

Dr Marion Gluck is based in London: The Marion Gluck Clinic

#bio-identical #Natural Hormone balancing #oestrogen #progesterone #yam cream #soy isoflavones

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Low Oestradiol

The ovaries produce oestrogen in response to chemical stimulation from the pituitary gland in the brain. Low levels of estrogen in young women can occur when there is an issue with the ovaries’ ability to produce oestrogen and whether or not the signaling pathway from the brain to the ovaries is working properly.

As a woman approaches her late 30s, her ovaries naturally start producing less oestrogen and levels fluctuate considerably during perimenopause. Once a woman reaches menopause, her ovaries produce much less estrogen.

Oestradiol is the dominant form of oestrogen and the level most frequently measured. During perimenopause, the several years before menopause occurs, oestradiol levels also fluctuate considerably. Menopausal women normally have very low oestradiol levels, less than 10 pg/ml.

Low estrogen levels can affect physical characteristics, behavior, and fertility. Low oestrogen is linked to mood disruptions that occur only in women such as premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and postpartum depression. Oestrogen improves mood by increasing serotonin and the number of serotonin receptors in the brain and by modifying the production and the effects of endorphins, the "feel-good" chemicals in the brain. It could be that many women are needlessly taking antidepressants when they should be on HRT.

Modern low fat diets could be causing low oestrogen so increasing the good fats through nutritional changes is a good idea. ‘Cholesterol, a type of fat in the diet forms the backbone structure of all hormones in the body. Severely limiting fat in the diet, especially during the years of menarche, or onset of menses, can have devastating effects on estrogen production and the onset of a period, according to Aetna Intelihealth disease database.’ http://www.livestrong.com/article/506155-what-is-a-healthy-estrogen-level/

I didn’t produce enough breast milk for either of my two babies so I was interested to discover that oestrogen causes the milk ducts in the breast to widen and prepare for milk production so women need sufficient oestrogen to breast feed their babies.

I am disturbed to find out that oestrogen is essential for all women to maintain strong bones. Lack of estrogen is a major cause of osteoporosis among menopausal women which leads to brittle bones and the increased chance of fractures. A bone density scan might be my next test to have done.

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Postpartum thyroiditis is a phenomenon observed following pregnancy[1] and may involve hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism or the two sequentially. It affects about 5% of all women within a year after giving birth. The first phase is typically hyperthyroidism. Then, the thyroid either returns to normal or a woman develops hypothyroidism. Of those women who experience hypothyroidism associated with postpartum thyroiditis, one in five will develop permanent hypothyroidism requiring lifelong treatment.

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Thyroid Patient Advocacy

This website is dedicated to the millions of thyroid patients who are being ignored and left to suffer unnecessarily, and to healthcare practitioners, who want to better serve those patients.

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Erfa Thyroid - PIL

Erfa Thyroid (Desiccated Thyroid) comes in 30, 60, or 125mg tablets and is used for hypothyroidism therapy.

Dosage and Administration

“The dosage of thyroid hormones is determined by the indication and must in every case be individualized according to patient response and laboratory findings. There are wide variations in individual responses. The effects of daily thyroid reach a therapeutic maximum usually in 4 to 6 weeks.

Initial dose for myxedema is usually 30 to 180 mg daily; other hypothyroid states, 60 to 300 mg daily. Usual maintenance dose is 30 to 125 mg daily.

Note: Desiccated thyroid 60 mg is usually considered equivalent to thyroglobulin 60 mg, levothyroxine sodium (T4) 0.1 mg or liothyronine sodium (T3) 25 μg.”

Adverse Reactions

“Except in rare instances of intolerance, possibly due to the development of hypersensitivity to animal protein in whole thyroid, adverse effects are generally infrequent at physiologic doses.

Neurological: nervousness, tremors, headache, insomnia. Cardiovascular: palpitation, tachycardia, cardiac arrhythmias, angina pectoris. Gastrointestinal: diarrhea, abdominal cramps. Miscellaneous: sweating, heat intolerance, fever, weight loss.”

Signs of thyroid hormone toxicity are chest pain, increased pulse rate, palpitations, excessive sweating, heat intolerance, nervousness, or any other unusual event.

Ingredients

Each off-white to light amber-colored tablet, embossed “ECI 30”, “ECI 60” or “ECI 125” on one side. Contains 30 mg, 60 mg or 125 mg of desiccated thyroid derived from porcine thyroid glands containing lactose.

Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, magnesium stearate, sugar and talc.

Energy: 1.2 kJ (0.28 kcal)/30 mg tablet; 1.1 kJ (0.26 kcal)/60 mg tablet; 2.2 kJ (0.52 kcal)/125 mg tablet. Gluten-, paraben-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.

Bottle of 100 or 500 tablets. Store at controlled room temperature 15 to 30°C.

Information taken from http://eci2012.net/product/thyroid/

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NHS and NDT

Desiccated Thyroid can be prescribed by a GP but this is at the discretion of the individual doctor because the medicine is unlicensed in the UK. Thyroid UK reports that ‘it is also becoming increasingly common for NHS prescribers to refuse on grounds of cost’.

Thyroid UK also say that if you are prescribed levothyroxine because you have an underactive thyroid you’re entitled to a medical exemption certificate. To apply for one ask your GP for a FP92A form. Go to www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/healthcosts/2095aspx.

This has caused me to wonder if poor T4 converters who will therefore not respond to levothyroxine (which is synthetic T4) can claim for NDT under medical exemption. I will try and report back.

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Today I saw my GP to ask for NDT on prescription and I experienced a ‘computer says no’ moment when he said it wasn’t listed on his screen. He also said that he has no experience of treating poor T4 converters so he has referred me to a consultant endocrinologist for a consultation. I pointed out that he doesn’t have this experience because the NHS doesn’t offer thyroid patients the T3 test.

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Book Review: ‘Overcoming Thyroid Disorders’ by David Brownstein MD

The book jacket says: ‘Dr Brownstein will show you why there is so much misinformation about thyroid disorders. This book contains all new information on how to implement a safe and effective natural regimen to treat thyroid disorders including: Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s disease, and hypothyroidism. This book contains two new chapters which provide the newest information on how to holistically treat thyroid disorders through detoxification, diet, iodine supplementation, minerals, natural hormones, and vitamins.’

David Brownstein MD is a board-certified family practitioner who utilises the best of conventional as well as holistic medicine. He is the Medical Director of the Centre for Holistic Medicine in West Bloomfield, Michigan, USA.

Having read Dr Brownstein’s book ‘Iodine: Why You Need It’ I suspected that I had hypothyroidism. Once I had this confirmed with the appropriate tests with Dr Meyer I decided to educate myself more about the treatment.

He starts by criticising modern Western medicine for the focus on laboratory diagnosis as opposed to clinical diagnosis which considers medical history and symptoms. He says that ‘blood tests may only identify 2% to 5% of hypothyroid cases, often leaving many hypothyroid individuals classified as ‘normal’ while their thyroid deficiency leaves them vulnerable to everything from heart disease to depression’. He even feels that many hyperactive children actually have a low thyroid.

Dr Brownstein draws on the work of Broda O Barnes MD, PhD, a researcher and pioneer in the field of thyroid and endocrine imbalances whose ‘research proved that natural, desiccated thyroid hormone worked more efficiently in the body, and was more equivalent to the body’s own endogenous production of thyroid hormone’.

Dr Brownstein is an expert in Iodine and in this book he advises on the use of therapeutic doses to treat the underlying cause of the illness and maintain optimal thyroid function. He says that ‘iodine is an integral nutrient for promoting thyroid function. Presently, iodine deficiency is occurring at epidemic levels’.

‘I have had a strong interest in thyroid disorders for over 15 years now. Solely relying on the conventional blood test to make a diagnosis of a thyroid problem will result in a misdiagnosis in a large number of patients ... subsequently diagnosed with other disorders such as depression or fibromyalgia. Many times, these patients are suffering from a hormonal imbalance, particularly a thyroid hormonal imbalance. Treating the underlying cause of the illness, in this case a thyroid disorder, is the correct action to take.’

The Problems with the TSH Test

Dr Brownstein explains that ‘the TSH test has been the ‘gold standard’ in conventional medicine for diagnosing hypothyroidism for over 30 years’ but he points out that it is problematic because the normal reference range was established to include 95% of the population, which many researchers now believe is inaccurate.

Dr A P Weetman, wrote in the British Medical Journal:

‘The simplest explanation is that thyroid disease is so common that many people predisposed to thyroid failure are included in a laboratory’s reference population’.

This means that ‘there are many physicians and organisations who believe the ‘normal’ upper limit of the TSH range should be lowered from 4.5mlU/l to 3mlU/l. This small change may result in a doubling of the numbers of individuals diagnosed as hypothyroid via blood tests’. p38.

Poor T4 Converters

Dr Brownstein also points out that it is essential to check T3 levels: ‘I have seen many patients who have normal T4 and TSH levels, but have low T3 levels ... many people do not adequately convert T4 into T3 and thus will be hypothyroid even though the TSH test falls within the normal range.’ p43. By simply monitoring TSH levels the NHS will totally miss how much T4 is converting to T3, as they did in my case. He goes on to explain how other factors can cause poor T4 conversion such as old age, drugs (birth control, HRT), nutritional deficiencies (zinc and selenium), low adrenal function, dietary influences (soy), and smoking.

Conventional Treatment

Conventional treatment of hypothyroidism uses Levothyroxine Sodium a synthetic derivative of T4 (known in the USA as Sythroid, Levothroid, and Unithroid). This does not help poor T3 converters which explains why many people do not respond to this treatment. According to my pharmacist, who likes NDT, NHS patients are not offered NDT on the NHS so if they don’t respond to Thyroxine they are left untreated.

Holistic Treatment of Hypothyroidism

Dr Brownstein recommends firstly correcting vitamin and nutrient deficiencies through diet and supplementation including Iodine, stopping hormonal birth control, and avoiding synthetic oestrogens.

Natural Desiccated Thyroid

‘When medication is needed to treat hypothyroidism, I believe that desiccated glandular thyroid products (Armour Thyroid, Nature Thyroid, or Westhroid) are much more effective treatment options as compared to using T4 derivatives. My clinical experience with using desiccated thyroid has shown that it is a superior product as compared to the synthetic versions of thyroid hormone presently available (such as Synthroid or Levothroid).’ p55.

Dr Brownstein says that Natural Desiccated Thyroid products are the closest duplicate of our own thyroid production. They contain T3 and other factors that allow T3 conversion to take place more easily in the body. They are made by heat drying glandular products from pigs.

‘I see many patients in my practice that were diagnosed with hypothyroidism by another physician and placed on a levothyroxine sodium product such as Synthroid. Although their blood tests improved with the use of Synthroid, many of their symptoms did not improve. Upon changing their thyroid hormone to the desiccated version (Armour Thyroid, Nature-Throid, Westhroid) their symptoms dramatically improve. I believe this improvement occurs because the body is able to convert the desiccated thyroid hormone (Armour Thyroid) to the active hormone more efficiently.’ p59.

6 Steps to Improving Your Diet

1. Eliminate Refined Sugar

‘Refined sugar is devoid of nutrients which aid the body in the digestion of food. Consequently, when we eat foods that contain refined sugar, our bodies have to use their own store of nutrients to properly digest the food. Long-term ingestion of large amounts of refined sugar will result in our bodies becoming depleted of essential nutrients. The overuse of refined sugar will ultimately lead to multiple nutritional imbalances in the body, particularly B vitamin deficiencies.’ p217.

2. Eliminate Trans Fatty Acids

‘We have been brainwashed by dieticians and the diet industry into believing that eating fat is bad for our health and that dietary fat is responsible for obesity. What these ‘experts’ do not tell you is that there are ‘good’ and ‘bad’ fats. Good fats are an essential ingredient necessary for proper thyroid and immune system functioning.’ p219.

Remove trans-fatty acids such as hydrogenated vegetable oils, margarine, baked goods, chips, and peanut butter. These products ‘disrupt the normal functioning of the cells of the body, blocking the utilisation of essential fatty acids’ ... leading to ‘many chronic illnesses, including immune system dysfunction and hormonal imbalances, particularly thyroid imbalances’. p222.

Increase monunsaturated fats (olive oil), saturated fats (lard, goose fat, butter, coconut oil) and polyunsaturated fats (flaxseed oil, fish oil).

3. Eat Organic Food

‘Part of the reason there has been such as rise in chronic illnesses in this country is due to food being contaminated with hormone-disrupting substances.’ p225.

4. Drink More Water

‘It has been my experience that all thyroid conditions, from hypothyroidism to autoimmune thyroid problems can be improved simply by ensuring an adequate intake of water’. p227. ‘Bottled water contains chemicals leached from the plastic know as phthalates, which are known to be hormone-disrupting chemicals. These agents interfere with the normal functioning of the thyroid gland and other hormonal systems of the body.’ p 228.

‘I recommend using a water filter that removes fluoride and chlorine as well as bacteria and parasites’. p228.

5. Eliminate Artificial Sweeteners

‘Aspartame is the chemical name for the brand names NutraSweet, Equal, Spoonful, and Equal-Measure. Aspartame is a sweetener that is made up of three items: aspartic acid, phenylalanine and methanol. Too much aspartic acid in the brain kills brain neurons.’

‘Too much phenylalanine affects many of the brain neurotransmitters including L-Dopa and norepinephrine. Research has shown that increased blood phenylalanine slows brain electrical discharge. An increased level of phenylalanine has also been found in Alzheimer’s patients.’

‘Methanol is also a major component of antifreeze and is used as a solvent.’ p231.

6. Eat a Balanced Diet

Carbohydrates

Remove refined carbohydrates: white sugar, white flour, pasta, breakfast cereals, and corn starch. They are damaging to the body because they lack the vitamins minerals, and enzymes that are necessary for proper digestion which depletes the body of its own reserves.

Replace with unrefined carbohydrates in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains which contain the necessary vitamins, minerals, fiber, and enzymes that help with digestion.

Protein

‘Animal protein is the only source of complete protein available (containing all of the essential and non-essential amino acids). Vegetable protein, found in seeds, nuts, legumes and cereals, does not contain all of the essential amino acids. ... I have diagnosed many patients with hypothyroidism that has been caused by an inadequate protein intake. Thyroid hormone is unable to convert from the inactive (T4) form to the active (T3) form without adequate amounts of protein intake.’ p 240.

Fat

‘Eating adequate amounts of the right types of fat is essential to the production of all the body’s hormones, including those produced by the thyroid.’ p241.

Nutrition Supplements for Detoxification of Heavy Metals

Cilantro drops: 4 per day

Garlic: 500mg per day

L-Glutamine: 3-6g per day

Vitamin C: 3-6g per day

Vitamin E: 800IU per day

Selenium: 400mcg per day [Youngevity Ultimate Selenium 90 Capsules 100 mcg With Vitamins A C D E. Buy from Youngevity Nutrition UK.]

Multi Vitamin Complex (the best is Beyond Tangy Tangerine 2.0 which is the most comprehensive, organic supplement on the market containing amino acids, vitamin C, selenium, and vitamin E. Buy from Youngevity Nutrition UK.

Iodine

‘Over 90% of patients test low for iodine. I have found it impossible to optimise thyroid function when there are suboptimal iodine levels.’ p290.

‘Iodine deficiency is the number one cause of thyroid disorders. Although iodine deficiency was thought to be a problem of the past, it is occurring at epidemic levels in today’s world.’ p290.

‘Iodine is perhaps the most important nutrient for the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland cannot make thyroid hormone without iodine. The two major thyroid hormones, levothyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) each contain iodine as a major part of their chemical structure.’ p291.