Hair Loss and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hair loss, also called alopecia, is a common occurrence. Most often, it is the result of aging and genetics. Both men and women tend to lose hair thickness as they grow older. About 25 percent of men begin to bald by their thirties, with 66 percent either have a balding pattern or being completely bald by the age of sixty. However, there can be other causes of hair loss, including fungal infections of the scalp; high fever; cancer chemotherapy; radiation therapy; hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland); autoimmune diseases such as lupus; nutritional deficiencies; emotional stress; and trichotillomania – a mental disorder that causes an individual to pull out his or her own hair. Even excessive shampooing and blow-drying can cause the hair to break and thin.

Clearly, it is important to know the cause of hair thinning and, if possible – as is the case with hyperthyroidism – to eliminate it. But it is also important to eat a well-balanced diet and take in adequate levels of hair-healthy nutrients. The following supplements have been found helpful in maintaining a thick head of hair and slow hair loss.

• Biotin
• Indole-3-carbinol
• Nettles-rosemary
• Saw palmetto

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is the most common type of thyroiditis – an inflammation of the thyroid gland. An autoimmune disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is genetic and much more prevalent in women than men.

The thyroid gland regulates growth and metabolism. When the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, as it does in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, growth and metabolism slow down. Weight gain is a common symptoms, as are constipation, cramps, depression, fatigue, goiters, muscle weakness, and sensitivity to cold. Hypothyroidism – low levels of the thyroid hormones – often occurs. However, some people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis exhibit no symptoms.

See your doctor if you suspect you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. He will perform a simple blood test to make this determination. If you do, he will probably prescribe thyroid hormone replacement to alleviate your hormone deficiency. However, the dosage of this pill is important.

Hyperthyroidism – high levels fo the thyroid hormones – can occur if you ingest too much thyroxine (one of the thyroid hormones). The symptoms of hyperthyroidism include insomnia, irritability, a racing heart, sensitivity to heat, and weight loss. You should. Therefore, visit your doctor regularly to determine if you are ingesting the proper amount of thyroid hormone. You can also take the nutrients to discourage the immune sysmte from attacking the thyroid gland.

Supplements to treat Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

• EPA/DHA (fish oil)
• Eleuthero – Do not use if you have a history of heart disease
• Flaxseed
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
• Glucosamine
• Glutamine
• Kaprex Al
• Magnesium
• Olive leaf extract – Take with food
• Probiotics
• Selenium
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E