Know your thyroid.

                       HEALTHY LIFESTYLE KNOWLEDGE FOUNDATION                                                                                                                  

                                                  MONTHLY HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Month: January 2019

Topic :  1.    Why Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is not the reliable test for Thyroid disease?  

2. What other vitamins and minerals are absolutely necessary for the thyroid to work efficiently?

”Knowledge gives you the power to choose wisely and take control of your health”

Thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland situated under your Adam’s apple in the neck. Its duty is to control your metabolism, blood pressure, maintain body temperature, weight, produce certain proteins and blood circulation.

Thyroiditis : It is the  inflammation of the thyroid gland due to iodine deficiency.(Goiter)

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which our immune cells attack the thyroid gland (Thyroid peroxidase (TPO), and thyroglobulin (Tg) producing antibodies (TPOAb, TgAb ).This is also called Hypothyroidism, meaning under production of the thyroid hormone T4 and T3.Symptoms include slower metabolism, weight gain, cold hands and feet, puffy eyes, hair loss on outer eyebrows, high cholesterol, depression etc.

Grave’s Disease is also autoimmune thyroid disease in which immune cells attack the Thyroid stimulating hormone receptors and produce antibodies ( TRAb) and results in over production of thyroid hormones T4 and T3. Hence its name Hyperthyroidism. Symptoms include bulging eyes, weight loss, sensitivity to heat, high pulse rate etc.

Most of the cases thyroid disease is caused by autoimmunity and it is related to leaky gut due to consumption of wheat, cow milk, bacterial or yeast overgrowth. Autoimmunity is regulated by regulatory T cells (Tregs) and they are controlled by Vitamin D3 and vitamin C.

Pituitary gland (brain) instructs thyroid to produce T4 and T3 by sending Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) when it senses the low T3 levels in it. It means more the T3 it has less TSH is produced and less the T3 it has more TSH is produced. Here lies the discrepancy because it has different set of Deiodinases (Enzymes that convert inactive T4 to active T3. Whole body except pituitary gland has Deiodinase type D1 that converts T4 to T3 but pituitary gland has little D1 but sufficient D2 which is 1000 times more effective than D1 in converting T4 to T3.

Pituitary gland can make  enough T3 from a little T4  with the help of D2 , when all other body tissues are crying for T3 hormone. Even under physiologic conditions like depression, dieting, weight gain, obesity, diabetes, inflammation, autoimmune, chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome etc D1 is down regulated in the body and D2 in the pituitary is up regulated producing more T3. Hence Pituitary gland having itself sufficient T3 doesn’t instruct the thyroid gland by increasing production of TSH .

Pituitary gland doesn’t have another deiodinase D3 that converts T4 into reverse T3 (RT3) which acts directly opposite to T3. Whole body has D3 and under physiologic conditions listed above it converts most of the T4 into T3 putting brakes to the production of active T3 and slowing the metabolism. This proves that TSH test can’t be relied on.

As for as TSH reference range is concerned its upper limit is set too high at 4.0 ( reduced from 5.0 to 4.5 then to 4.0) In some countries it is set at 3.0 but in Canada it is 4.0. Optimum upper limit is 1.5-2.0.

Tests : TSH, free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, TPOAb, TgAb, TG for Hypothyroidism and TRAb for hyperthyroidism.

Unfortunately doctors don’t test RT3 cause if found high they have no medicine to prescribe to lower it. Zinc and selenium can lower high Rt3. Similarly they don’t test free T3 because if low they have no medicine that can raise T3 levels. They prescribe only Synthroid which has T4 only.

They don’t test autoantibodies because if found positive , have no medicine to eliminate it.

Vitamin D and A can lower auto antibodies along with selenium.

Best way to treat hypothyroidism is to supplement with NDT natural dessicated thyroid hormone called Throid.

Or if synthroid doesn’t work then Cytomel (T3) should be taken.

Nutrients needed: Tyrosine amino acid, iodine, iron, vitamin C, A, D, B2, B12, zinc, selenium, magnesium, omega 3 fatty acids.

To produce TSH Protein, magnesium, B12, zinc are absolutely required.

To produce T4 hormone Vitamin B2, Iodine and vitamin C are needed.

To convert T4 into active T3 zinc and selenium are important. If deficient in these minerals T4 is converted into reverse T3 which is detrimental to body organs.

T3 only works when it attaches to the surface of the nucleus of the cell and this function is mediated by vitamin A and D.

In total 12 different nutrients are required in optimum amounts to complete the whole cascade of production, activation and transportation of thyroid hormone to cellular level or the nucleus DNA and switching on genes.

Yours healthfully,

Sukhwinder Brar (President)

Healthy Lifestyle Knowledge Foundation

                     

Health Seminar on Liposomal Vitamin C

Benefits of Magnesium

Why Humans are deprived of Vitamin C ?

                       HEALTHY LIFESTYLE KNOWLEDGE FOUNDATION                                                                                                                  

                                                  MONTHLY HEALTH NEWSLETTER

Topic :      Why humans are deprived of vitamin C  ?                                                                   December 2018

Humans, unlike other animals, cannot make vitamin C. We must consume it from exogenous supplements or our diet. Can this be considered a manufacturing defect ? The absence of the enzyme l-gulonolactone oxidase (glo) from the liver and loss of the gene controlling the synthesis of this enzyme in humans blocks the final phase in the series for converting glucose to ascorbic acid. Not so in other mammals except the guinea pig, fruit bats, primates.

Sources: The very richest sources are acerola, guavas, red sweet peppers, kale leaves, parsley, collard leaves, turnip greens, green sweet peppers, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and mustard greens, all fresh fruits and vegetables (especially green, leafy vegetables). Early explorers learned that, to avoid scurvy, they needed to eat oranges, lemons, limes, berries.

Functions : Needed for production of collagen (“cell cement”) , the main protein substance of the body. It is an extremely important antioxidant. It strengthens various immune functions by enhancing white blood-cell function and activity. It neutralizes chemicals, pesticides such as water and air pollutants.It is needed by every cell, gland, tissue such as adrenal, thyroid etc. It is a great antibiotic known to kill all viruses, bacteria, fungal and mold.

It is used for all gastrointestinal problems, snakebites, poisonous effects of drugs. Wonderful in dealing with fevers and infections. It reduces wrinkles, a great beauty aid. It regulates immune system by creating regulatory T cells called tregs  and good for treating autoimmune conditions such as Celiac disease, type1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, Crohn’s disease.

Extremely helpful in treating asthma and other allergies,

atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cataracts, Parkinson’s disease, skin ulcers, wound healing, and pregnancy-related conditions.

It overcomes cadmium poisoning .Cancer patients should be urged to take lots of vitamin C.

Supplements : Vitamin C from the health-food store comes in several forms: powders, crystals, capsules, tablets, and time-release tablets. Ascorbic acid is the most widely used and least expensive form. It is usually made from corn. Buffered vitamin C with sodium, magnesium and potassium can be taken but Ester C with calcium must be avoided to overdose the calcium.

Liposomal Vitamin C is the new guy in this area and quite costly but very effective and bioavailable even better than IV treatment.

Deficiency symptoms: Soft gums (pyorrhea), tooth decay, skin hemorrhages, anemia, slow healing of sores and wounds, capillary weakness, premature aging, deterioration in collagen, thyroid insufficiency. Also reduced resistance to infections, toxic effects of drugs, and environmental poisons. The classic symptoms of  scurvy are bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and extensive bruising ; also there is susceptibility to infections, hysteria, and depression .

Interactions: Bioflavonoids, calcium, and magnesium are needed for vitamin C assimilation. Vitamin C works closely with other nutritional antioxidants, especially vitamin E, selenium, and beta-carotene . When a combination of antioxidants is given, the patient can more easily deal with cancer. Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron, decreases the absorption of copper.

RDA of vitamin C is about 90 mg/day for men and women need more vitamin C around 110 mg/day. Smokers, pregnant and breastfeeding women need even more to prevent scurvy. Ideal dose of Vitamin C is 2000-3000 mg/day in divided doses. Liposomal Vitamin C is the best and beware of the product made with soybean lecithin.

Good Health !

Sukhwinder Brar

587-830-2930

Health Seminar April 2018

Role of stomach acid (HCL), iron, B12, Ferritin and Folate in body.

Topic Discussed in April Health Seminar:

Role of HCL, Vitamin B12, Ferritin, and Folate.

¨  Stomach Acid Is Also Called Hydrochloric Acid Due To Its Chemical Structure Of One Hydrogen Ion Combined To One Chlorine Ion Making HCL.

¨  Our Autonomic Nervous System Is Composed Of 2 Main Branches.  The Sympathetic And Parasympathetic Branches.

¨           Sympathetic System: Fight Or Flight, Parasympathetic System: Rest or Digest

¨  Proper Digestion Depends Upon Us Being In A Parasympathetic Dominant State.  Chronic Stress Puts Us In A Sympathetic Dominant State Which Restricts Activity In The Digestive Tract And Causes Poor Digestive Function.

¨  PARIETAL CELL : Histamine, Gastrin, ACh attach to receptors. Gastrin is released by G cells and produced in stomach, pancreas. Hydrogen/Potassium pump or Proton Pump exchanges H+ for K+ (H2O = H+ OH-), Chlorine or Cl-simply diffuses. H2 Blockers or antiHistamine 2 blockers: Zantac, ranitidine block the  receptors, Proton pump inhibitors or PPIs : Prevacid, Prilosec

¨  CAUSES OF LOW HCL: Eating when upset (Stress),          

¨  Eating a nutritionally-deficient diet of processed and fast foods. Lack of sufficient minerals in the daily diet.Excess carbohydrate consumption and poor food combining. Protein deficient diets

¨  Zinc deficiency. B vitamin esp. Thiamin deficiency , Anti-biotics Transform Your Microbiome And Cause An Increase In Intestinal Related Inflammation In The Body.  This Inflammation Causes A Rise In Stress Hormones Which Reduce The Bodies Ability To Produce HCL

¨  H Pylori Produce An Enzyme Called “Urease” Which Breaks Down The Urea In The Stomach Into Carbon Dioxide And Ammonia.  This Causes Belching And Halitosis (Bad Breath) For The Individual And It Neutralizes The Acidifying Effects Of Hydrochloric Acid

¨  Poor Diet: A diet rich in processed foods, sugars, grains, cause chronic inflammation and elevated stress hormone production.  Refined sugar, which depletes minerals. Drinking ice water with meals. Age – as you get older, stomach acid production tends to decrease especially if there is any chronic illness. Antacid use.Taking prescription and over the counter drugs that suppress HCL production either directly or indirectly.Candida.  Stay on a lower carbohydrate, higher fat, anti-oxidant rich diet and your stomach acid levels will improve.

¨  Overuse of NSAIDs : Tylenol, aspirin, aleve and ibuprofen  wear down the stomach lining and reduce the ability of the stomach cells to produce HCL

¨  Proton Pump Inhibitors: further reduces stomach acid, which leads to microbial overgrowth and further stress on the body

¨  Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth: SIBO causes chronic stress in the body, which reduces the bodies ability to produce adequate HCL

¨  Aging: As we age in our society, all of systems slow down and especially the digestive  system

¨   Food Sensitivities : gluten , corn, soy, peanuts and pasteurized dairy

¨  Thyroid antibodies (TPOAb, TGAb) appears 10 years before TSH is even detected

¨  Presence of TPO antibodies indicates that active destruction is going on against the thyroid

¨  Case study : TSH 4.5 and TPOAb 2000 iu/l ( Normal less than 2)

¨  SYMPTOMS OF LOW HCL : Chronic fatigue, Paleness, Weakness, Pica, Cold hands and feet

¨  Hair Falling, Brittle Nails,

¨  FUNCTIONS OF STOMACH ACID : Sterilizes the food , Activates Intrinsic factor, Activates Pepsin, Produces Ferritin , Digests proteins and minerals B 12, iron, zinc, Ca, Stimulates the delivery of bile and pancreatic enzymes, Closes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)

¨  Opening of the pyloric sphincter, Activates migrating motor complex (MMC)

¨  HOW TO RAISE HCL : Iron, Zinc, Eradicate H. Pylori, Probiotics , ACV, Lemon Juice,  Ginger Tea Increases Hcl Secretion, Iodine,    Thyroid,    Betaine Hcl With Pepsin,    Bitters : Bitter Gourd, Methi, Gentian, Dandelion Leaves, Aloe Vera, Cabbage Juice, Marshmallow Root, Slippery Elm,  DGL (Licorice) Dandelion , Ginger, Goldenseal Root, Milk Thistle, Wormwood

¨  HOW HCL AFFECTS YOUR HEALTH : Malnutrition , Iron deficiency anemia , Osteoporosis

¨  Periodontal disease, General and food allergies, Leaky gut syndrome, B12 deficiency

¨  Gallstones risk , Diabetes, Skin problems, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo , Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), Heart burn , acid reflux, Bloating, belching, and flatulence immediately after meals, Indigestion – heavy feeling in the stomach, Candida, Upset stomach, Nausea

¨  FERRITIN: Ferritin can easily be measured in blood. The levels correlate with the total amount of iron stored in the body. Hence, serum ferritin reflects the body’s iron stores.

¨  In general, low levels suggests iron deficiency whereas high levels may suggest iron overload in the body. However, elevated levels are often found in the absence of iron overload.

¨  Males: 23-336 ng/mL ,Females: 11-306 ng/mL ,LOW LEVELS =IRON DEFICIENCY

¨  CAUSES OF LOW FERRITIN : BLOOD LOSS, HEAVY MENSES, BLOOD LOSS DUE TO ULCERS, GI TRACT, INFLAMMATION, CANCER OF STOMACH, SMALL INTESTINE , COLON, HEMORRHOIDS

¨  CELIAC DISEASE, HYPOTHYROIDISM,   VITAMIN C DEFICIENCY, VEGETARIANS

¨  SYMPTOMS OF LOW B12 : High homocysteine , Sore muscles, painful burning sensations

¨  Electric shock sensations on bending, Pin and needles in hands/feet, Peripheral neuropathy ( nerve damage), Quivering, trembling muscles, Muscle stiffness each morning

¨  Tender spots on your body (Fibromyalgia) Pain in elbows, shoulders, and hips from bursitis.

¨  Poor control of arm and leg movements.( Clumsiness), Difficulty walking in a straight line.

¨  Difficulty remembering words/ names, Irritability., Depression, Chronic fatigue, Aggressive behaviour, Paranoia, peculiar suspicions, hallucinations,Sore red tongue burning, mouth ulcers, canker sores, No or unpleasant taste in mouth, Pain in bladder in the absence of uterine infection, Difficulty swallowing. “Frog in throat” sensation, Nausea, Acid reflux, heart burn

¨  Flatulence, loss of appetite, constipation, Weak pulse , Sensory impairments, such as hypersensitivity to touch, fragrances, textures, flavors, lighting and noise. Constantly feeling cold

¨  Bruising easily, dry itchy skin, Premature grey hair, Hair loss, Thin , ridged nails that break easily

¨  Functions of B12 : B12 allows your body to make heme, a chemical component of hemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen in your blood. Vitamin B12 also maintains healthy myelin, a fatty substance that promote nerve function. B12 might benefit men due to cobalamin's effect on fertility, boosting sperm production( azoospermia)

¨  Food Sources of B12: Because B12 occurs naturally in meat, eggs, and fish

Rumors exist that bananas and raw honey have B12s in them, but, so far, no plant has been found to contain the vitamin

FOLATE WITHOUT B12: Taking Folate Or Eating A Lot Of Folate-containing Foods Without Adding B-12 Can Actually Mask The Symptoms Of A B-12 Deficiency.

 Although Folate Will Keep Your Blood Count Normal In B12 Deficiency It Will Not Protect Your Brain And Nervous System.  Megaloblastic Anemia (Because Of The Folate),

¨   But Your Symptoms Of Numbness, Tingling, Balance Problems, And Emotional Issues Will Continue Unchecked.

¨  By Eating So Many Folate-containing Green Vegetables, Beans, And Lentils, Vegetarians And Vegans Inadvertently Mask Their Own Slowly Developing B-12 Deficiency.

¨  TREATMENT : It’s virtually impossible to take too much B-12 as any excess of this water-soluble vitamin is eliminated via urine. Use Methylcobalamin supplements (as opposed to sublingual cyanocobalamin ) Never supplement any vitamin on its own, always consult your physician first.

¨  Hydoxocobalamin or Methylcobalamin injections, Folate (not folic acid) 5-MTHF methyl tetra hydro folate , Folate 400 mcg/d, lactating 500 mcg, pregnant 600 mcg/d

¨  The Usual Supplemental Iron Dose Is 50 To 60 Milligrams Of Elemental Iron Twice A Day For Three months.(Ferrous fumarate, bisglycinate better than sulphate form. Vitamin C and protein meat increases bioavailability of non-heme iron.  Injectable Or Intravenous Iron Becomes Necessary When Oral Supplements Fail Or Cause Excessive Stomach Upset.

¨  B-12 Supplements Have A Much Higher Absorption Rate Than Foods Because This Form Of B-12 Doesn't Need To Be Broken Down Before It's Absorbed. By Mouth, Sublingually Under The Tongue, In Nasal Spray Form Or In Injection Or Intravenous Infusions

¨  B12 RDA is only 2.4 mcg/d But in deficiency 1000 mcg/d
Sukhwinder Brar
President
Healthy Lifestyle Knowledge Foundation